The government has announced an immediate ban on grain exports in response to the ongoing severe drought affecting several regions.
This decision, announced by the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, during a press briefing on August 26, aims to secure food availability within Ghana.
"Effective immediately, the government is halting the export of grains such as maize, rice, and soybean until the situation stabilizes," Minister Acheampong stated, stressing the need to prioritize the domestic supply of these essential crops.
This export ban comes in the wake of alarming reports revealing that 435,872 farmers have already incurred losses estimated at GH₵3.5 billion due to the extended dry conditions. The affected crops, which include maize, rice, groundnut, soybean, sorghum, millet, and yam, are largely produced in the eight regions that contribute around 62% of the nation's grain supply. The government's decisive action seeks to avert a potential food crisis by focusing on domestic consumption.
To support farmers impacted by the export ban, Minister Acheampong urged them to seek assistance through local agricultural offices. "Farmers with stock ready for sale should reach out to our district directors, district aggregators, or the directorate of crops at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. This will help mitigate the adverse effects of the ban on farmers," he assured.