The Government of Ghana has introduced a major policy shift aimed at strengthening the local agricultural sector and boosting demand for Ghana-made food products. President John Dramani Mahama has directed all basic, junior high, and senior high schools across the country to procure rice, maize, chicken, and eggs produced exclusively in Ghana.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, on Thursday, November 13, 2025, during the presentation of the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament. The directive forms part of the government’s broader strategy to stimulate local production, create jobs, and enhance economic transformation.
Dr Ato Forson emphasised that the policy is designed to support Ghanaian farmers and agribusinesses by offering them a guaranteed and stable market. He noted that increasing local demand for agricultural produce would help reduce import dependency, conserve foreign exchange, and encourage growth within the poultry and crop production sectors.
“This directive by President Mahama is a clear commitment to strengthening our local economy. By ensuring that our schools buy Ghanaian rice, maize, chicken, and eggs, we are not only supporting farmers but also promoting food security and job creation,” the Finance Minister stated.
The Ministry of Finance added that the initiative aligns with the 2026 budget theme, “Resetting for Growth, Jobs and Economic Transformation.”
The government expects that with sustained local demand, farmers will be encouraged to expand production, adopt improved technologies, and enhance quality standards.
Education sector stakeholders, including heads of institutions and suppliers, are expected to comply with the directive as implementation guidelines are rolled out by the Ministries of Education and Agriculture. The government has assured that measures will be put in place to ensure affordability and quality across the supply chain.
The policy is anticipated to make a significant impact on the livelihoods of local farmers while accelerating Ghana’s path toward agricultural self-sufficiency.
By: Daniel Orlando/newsalertgh.com
