PHOTOS: Otumfuo Urges Government to Cut Food Imports, Revive Interest in Farming

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has expressed deep concern over Ghana’s continued dependence on imported food items that can be cultivated locally.

He urged the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, to take bold steps to significantly reduce food imports and prioritize the development of local agriculture.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the Minister and his delegation at the Manhyia Palace on Friday, June 13, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized the need for urgent interventions to rekindle interest in farming, particularly among the youth.

The Asantehene recommended a possible revival of the historic “Operation Feed Yourself” initiative from the Acheampong era, should the government deem it necessary to revitalize the agricultural sector.

“It’s disheartening that we are still importing basic produce like tomatoes and onions. Work hard to halt or at least minimize food imports so we can produce more locally. I’ll be monitoring closely—make sure farmers get irrigation support,” he stressed.

Otumfuo also called on chiefs and traditional leaders across the country to contribute to national development by making land available for agricultural use, suggesting such lands could be offered as equity in farming ventures to encourage investment and productivity.