Support Ghanaian Farmers: Choose Local Poultry This Christmas for Healthier Meals and a Stronger Economy
As the festive season approaches, the aroma of delicious meals fills the air, and families gather to celebrate.Central to many Ghanaian celebrations is the beloved chicken dish.This Christmas, poultry farmers in Ghana's Eastern Region are urging consumers to prioritize locally raised poultry over imported options.This choice not only promises fresher and healthier meals but also bolsters the local economy and supports hardworking Ghanaian farmers.
The Case for Choosing Local Poultry
Nana Dr. Okra Baadu III, the 2023 Kwahu West Best Poultry Farmer and CEO of Shannon Mickay Farm in Asaase Fufuom, emphasizes the importance of supporting local poultry.He highlights concerns about the health implications and higher costs associated with imported frozen chicken, advocating for the consumption of locally raised poultry during the holiday season.
Challenges Facing Local Poultry Farmers
Despite the benefits of local poultry, farmers face significant challenges.The influx of cheap imported frozen chicken has led to decreased sales for local producers.The Poultry Farmers Association of Ghana has called on the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to encourage the consumption of local poultry during festive seasons, noting that many consumers still prefer imported options.
Additionally, the high cost of poultry feed and other production inputs has made it difficult for local farmers to compete.The Greater Accra Poultry Farmers Association has appealed to the government for subsidies and support to boost the capacity of local producers.
Government Initiatives to Boost Local Production
In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) has launched initiatives to support local poultry farmers.In 2023, MoFA facilitated the procurement of 5.5 million day-old chicks, 24,750 metric tons of feed, and 16.5 million doses of poultry vaccines for farmers to raise broiler chickens for local consumption during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Furthermore, the government plans to provide 18 million day-old chicks, vaccines, and starter feed to facilitate the production of 42,600 tonnes of meat in the coming year.This initiative aligns with the broader strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in chicken meat by 2028.
The Impact of Your Choice
Choosing local poultry has far-reaching benefits:
Healthier Options: Locally raised chickens are often fresher and free from the preservatives used in imported frozen products.
Economic Growth: Supporting local farmers keeps money within the Ghanaian economy, promoting job creation and sustainable development.
Food Security: Reducing reliance on imports enhances the nation's food security and resilience.
Conclusion
This Christmas, make a conscious decision to support Ghanaian poultry farmers by choosing locally raised chicken for your festive meals.Not only will you enjoy fresher and healthier dishes, but you'll also contribute to the growth and sustainability of the local poultry industry.Together, we can build a stronger, healthier Ghana
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