Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has bemoaned Ghana’s over-reliance on the importation of food products that could equally be grown in the country.
He urged the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, to work towards drastically reducing the importation of food that could easily be produced in Ghana.
The Asantehene also called on the government to put in place urgent interventions that will whip up interest in agriculture, especially among the youthful population.
He urged the government to consider reintroducing, ‘Operation Feed Yourself’ initiative, as was done during the Acheampong era, if it becomes necessary to revive the country’s agricultural sector.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II made the remarks when the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, led officials of the Ministry to pay a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace on Friday, June 13, as part of a working visit to the Ashanti Region.
“It’s sad we import tomatoes and onions. Work hard to ensure that the importation of food is ceased. Even if we import, there should be a reduction so that we grow in Ghana. I will be watching you closely. Ensure the provisions of irrigation to farmers,” he said.
The Asantehene also urged chiefs and other traditional authorities to offer lands as equity for farming activities to help boost agricultural development.
