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The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has announced a major policy shift that will see the Ministry supplying only locally sourced seeds to Ghanaian farmers beginning in 2026.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, November 24, the minister said the decision is anchored on the principle that food sovereignty is essential for true food security.
“Without food sovereignty, there can never be food security,” he stated.
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Mr Opoku explained that Ghana’s agricultural potential is closely tied to the strength of its domestic seed production ecosystem. He highlighted the country’s rich network of research institutions involved in seed research, development and testing, noting that these institutions are capable of producing high-quality seeds that meet local needs.
“We recognise the immense potential of our research institutions in seed research, development and testing. The ministry stands ready to collaborate with them to work towards food sovereignty,” he said.
The new policy is part of a broader national agenda to:
- Reduce Ghana’s dependence on imported seeds
- Boost the country’s seed production capacity
- Enhance self-sufficiency in staple crop production
- Strengthen food security frameworks
- Support local scientists and research centres
From 2026, all seeds supplied under government agricultural programmes will originate from local producers and research bodies, a move expected to stimulate investment in the seed industry and improve the resilience of Ghana’s food production systems.
Agricultural experts have long argued that Ghana’s reliance on foreign seeds undermines local innovation, affects crop adaptability, and exposes the food system to external shocks. The Ministry believes the new directive will help address these concerns, empower local breeders, and ensure that farmers have access to seeds that are tailored to Ghana’s climatic and soil conditions.
The minister stressed that the success of Ghana’s broader agricultural reforms depends on an efficient and self-reliant seed sector.
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