Ghana Launches Agricultural Revolution with First Farmer Services Centre in Afram Plains

President Mahama delivers on campaign promise to modernize farming through comprehensive support hub

President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched Ghana’s agricultural transformation agenda by cutting the sod for the country’s first Farmer Services Centre in Takoratwene on Saturday, delivering on a key campaign commitment from the 2024 elections. The groundbreaking ceremony marks a decisive shift toward modernizing Ghana’s agricultural sector and moving beyond traditional farming practices.

Presidential vision targets mechanized agriculture transition

Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama described the initiative as a transformative step that will fundamentally change how Ghana approaches agriculture. “The era of farming with traditional tools such as cutlasses and hoes must give way to modern, mechanised agriculture,” he declared, emphasizing the need to align Ghana’s farming practices with global standards.

“Across the world, developed countries are far ahead because they have embraced technology and sophisticated machinery in farming,” the President noted, positioning the Farmer Services Centre as essential infrastructure for closing this technological gap.

Comprehensive agricultural support hub unveiled

The new facility represents a holistic approach to agricultural transformation, combining equipment access, training, technical support, and market services under one roof. The centre will house modern machinery including tractors, combine harvesters, and threshers, alongside a dedicated maintenance unit to ensure consistent equipment availability for farmers.

Beyond machinery access, the facility will serve as a training hub where registered farmers can learn modern farming techniques and adopt best practices that increase productivity and sustainability. This educational component addresses the skills gap that often prevents successful adoption of agricultural technology.

Soil testing laboratory drives precision farming

A key innovation within the centre is its dedicated soil testing laboratory, which will provide farmers with detailed analysis services to guide informed crop selection and optimized fertilizer application. This scientific approach promises to improve yields while reducing input waste and environmental impact.

Registered farmers will receive comprehensive support in accessing quality seeds and fertilizers directly from the centre, with trained officers available to provide guidance on proper application and timing. This integrated support system eliminates many barriers that currently prevent smallholder farmers from accessing modern inputs.

Storage facilities tackle post-harvest losses

The facility includes warehouses and silos designed to address one of Ghana’s most persistent agricultural challenges: post-harvest losses due to inadequate storage. Farmers will no longer be forced to sell produce immediately after harvest at unfavorable prices, as the centre will purchase crops, store them properly, and sell them at optimal market times.

“Government will also introduce a minimum recommended price each year to guarantee farmers receive fair prices for their produce, often higher than prevailing market rates,” President Mahama announced, providing farmers with income security and market predictability.

Afram Plains selected as agricultural transformation pilot

The choice of Afram Plains for Ghana’s first Farmer Services Centre reflects the area’s critical importance as one of the country’s primary food production regions. The area produces significant quantities of maize, groundnuts, and cassava, making it an ideal location to demonstrate the centre’s transformative potential.

“The Farmer Services Centre represents a bold step towards modernising agriculture in Ghana,” the President concluded. “Together, we can transform Afram Plains into a true engine of food security and economic growth for our nation.”

Government increases agricultural investment significantly

President Mahama revealed substantial increases in government agricultural investment, with allocations through the National Buffer Stock Company rising from 200 million cedis last year to 300 million cedis this year for purchasing food for schools. This increase demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting both farmers and food security objectives.

In response to losses suffered by farmers following last year’s bumper harvest, the government will provide fertilizers free of charge this year, while maintaining restrictions on maize imports to protect local producers.

Infrastructure development supports agricultural growth

The President announced that government has awarded a contract to SONITRA Constructions Limited to construct the Adawso–Ekye Amanfrom bridge across the Afram River, which will significantly improve transportation and facilitate the movement of agricultural goods to markets.

Additionally, irrigation projects covering approximately 900 hectares have been initiated in the Afram Plains since last year, enabling year-round farming when completed. The road from Adawso to Abloblodepke will also be included in the Big Push Programme to improve regional accessibility and reduce transportation costs for farmers.