Ghana has signed a $220 million loan agreement with Brazil and India towards the modernisation and mechanisation of agriculture from next year.
Part of the loan will involve the importation of tractors for distribution to farmers to increase production.
The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto said this at Asante Mampong during a courtesy call on the Mamponhene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu.
The meeting was part of the Minister’s two-day working tour of the Ashanti Region to inspect farms being cultivated under the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative.
He will also interact with players in the Agriculture value chain and Directors, as well as inspect offices and facilities under the Ministry.
Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto said government has already procured three thousand (3,000) motorbikes for distribution to Agriculture Extension Officers to enable them to reach out to farmers in rural communities for improved food production.
Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto also indicated that his Ministry is putting up 30 warehouses at strategic locations, in anticipation of a bumper harvest next year.
The Mamponhene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu, commended government for the strides made in the Agriculture sector so far. He appealed for some of the tractors for farmers in the Mampong Municipality, since they produce major food crops for the country.
