John Dramani Mahama has cut the sod for the construction of Ghana’s first Farmer Services Centre at Takoratwene, describing the project as a major step in the country’s effort to modernise agriculture and improve farmers’ livelihoods.
Speaking at the ceremony in the Afram Plains, the President said the centre marks a clear shift away from subsistence farming toward a more mechanised and commercially viable agricultural sector.
He stressed that agriculture remains the main source of income for millions of Ghanaians and said government is determined to tackle long-standing challenges such as limited access to machinery, poor storage, weak extension services and unreliable market access.
The Farmer Services Centre, a flagship government initiative, is expected to serve as a one-stop hub where farmers can access mechanised equipment, farm inputs, training, soil testing services, storage facilities and support to reach reliable markets. Government plans to establish 50 such centres across the country, with 11 expected to begin construction this year.
Mahama said the Afram Plains was chosen for the first centre because of its vast arable land and its growing importance as a major agricultural production area. According to him, the project will help boost productivity, reduce post-harvest losses and create jobs, especially for young people interested in agriculture.
He also highlighted the role of private sector partnerships in the project and commended B5 Plus Group Limited for supporting the initiative. The President added that the government remains committed to climate-resilient farming, expanded irrigation, improved rural infrastructure and greater value addition to local produce.
Reassuring farmers of continued government support, Mahama said new policies are being rolled out to reduce input costs, ensure fair pricing and strengthen domestic food production. He said the project reflects a broader plan to build a modern, productive and food-secure Ghana.
Metrotvonline
