Former President John Dramani Mahama has assured that he will work to reduce the overdependence on imported products, including rice, and increase the consumption of locally produced products. In a recent speech, Mahama said the country needs to develop the local agriculture and industry to spur growth and create jobs.
Mahama's comments come against the background of Ghana's continued importation of large quantities of rice into the country, despite having an enviable agricultural sector. He said that the country spends millions of dollars every year on the importation of rice, adding that the trend is one that could be reversed with the right policies and incentives.
The former president, who led Ghana from 2012 to 2017, made a presentation on how local rice farmers would be assisted by being provided with all the resources necessary for farming, like seeds, fertilizers, and modern farming techniques. He also wanted the country to improve its rice processing capacity so locally grown rice could hold their own in the domestic and international markets.
"We need to cut our reliance on imported rice and other consumer products. Ghana can produce rice enough to satisfy local demand and export to other countries," he said. Mahama indicated that increasing local consumption would also support the economy and help reduce the country's trade deficit.
He further assured of increasing local consumption by calling for an intensive national campaign to educate Ghanaians on the benefits involved in consuming locally produced products. He said this would create greater demand for local rice, maize, cassava, and other staples, hence enhancing food security and supporting local farmers.
Mahama further called for much more effective collaboration between government, farmers, and the private sector in order to realize a sustainable agricultural sector that can meet the country's food needs without relying on imports. He indicated that such a change would bring along more jobs, especially in rural areas, and result in a resilient economy.
In summary, Mahama's vision for a self-sufficient Ghana is made up of industrialization, especially agriculture, that reduces the country's reliance on imports. He believes this will strongly ensure the economic well-being of the nation in the future.
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