The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana has expressed strong reservations about government’s plan to construct a 60,000-tonne grain silo, citing concerns over the project’s cost and location. The Chamber believes that the 64-million-dollar price tag is excessive, especially considering the current economic climate and competing priorities for agricultural development.
‘‘The funds could be better utilised in other areas of agricultural development, such as supporting farmers, improving irrigation systems and enhancing agricultural research’’, Chief Executive Officer at the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana, Anthony Kofituo Morrison indicated.
Ghana’s agricultural sector plays a vital role in the country’s economy, accounting for approximately 20 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing about 52 percent of the labour force.
Maize and rice are two of the country’s major crops.
The Chamber’s research indicates that Kwahu and Eastern Region, where the silo is planned, is not a major grain-producing area in Ghana.
The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana fears that a poorly chosen location could lead to inefficiencies and increased costs.
They advocate for investment in silos in key grain-producing like the Bono regions, Ahafo, Ashanti, Volta, and Upper West regions.
‘‘A decentralised approach to grain storage, involving smaller, community-based storage units, could be more effective in reducing post-harvest losses and improving food security. There is the need for government to conduct a feasibility study to determine the most suitable location for grain silos’’, Anthony Morrison suggested.
The Chamber recommends government ensure the silo project aligns with the needs of the industry and urges government to explore public-private partnerships to reduce burden on the state while improving agricultural infrastructure.
The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana urges the government to reconsider the silo project and engage stakeholders (including farmers, traders, and agribusinesses) in a comprehensive review of the project’s cost, location and design.
By Eben Agyekum-Boateng. 3Business
Source:
3news.com
Source link
