Poultry farmers in the Twifo Atti Morkwa District of the Central Region are on the brink of collapse as the soaring cost of feed ingredients threatens their livelihoods.
The skyrocketing prices of maize, soybeans, and other essential components have made it nearly impossible for farmers to maintain their operations, leading to a sharp increase in the cost of eggs and poultry products.
The crisis is compounded by severe shortages of feed supplies, forcing some farmers to travel to other regions in search of ingredients. However, not all farmers can afford the escalating costs or the expense of sourcing supplies from afar, leaving many with no option but to shut down their farms.
Mr. Jeremiah Makal, caretaker of Maxess Farms in Twifo Praso, shared with the Ghana News Agency the devastating impact of the feed crisis on his farm and others in the area.
“The feed issue has collapsed many farms around the area,” he lamented. “The incoming government must provide financial support to help us produce more eggs and roosters for affordability and for food and job security.”
The closure of farms has resulted in widespread job losses, affecting the local economy and reducing the availability of chicken and eggs. This decline in production poses a significant threat to food security in the region and beyond.
Farmers in the district are appealing to the government for urgent intervention, including subsidies or financial aid, to stabilise feed prices and prevent further closures.
They emphasise that such measures are critical not only for their survival but also for ensuring affordable poultry products and sustaining food security across the nation.