The Ministry of Agriculture, led by Hon. Bryan Acheampong, has announced an immediate ban on the export of key grains, including maize, rice, and soybean. This decision comes in response to the ongoing dry spell that has significantly affected agricultural production in eight regions. The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, stated that this measure is aimed at ensuring food security within the country.
During a press briefing on August 26, Mr. Acheampong declared, “With immediate effect, the government is placing a ban on the export of grains, including maize, rice, and soybean until the situation normalizes. This measure is essential to ensure the availability of these critical crops on the domestic market.”
The decision is prompted by disheartening reports which revealed that 435,872 farmers have already incurred an estimated GH₵ 3.5 billion in losses due to the prolonged dry conditions. The affected crops include staples such as maize, rice, groundnut, soybean, sorghum, millet, and yam. Given that these regions contribute about 62% of the country’s grain supply, the government’s move seeks to prioritize domestic consumption and prevent a potential food crisis.
The Minister also outlined support measures for farmers impacted by the ban. He urged them to engage with local agricultural offices, stating, “Any farmer with stock and interested in selling should contact our district directors across the country, our district aggregators, or the directorate of crops, MoFA.”
