The Ranking Member on the Committee on Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs, Hon. Isaac Yaw Opoku, has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the GH₵2.2 billion allocated to the agricultural sector in the 2026 budget, arguing that the amount is insufficient to address the country’s pressing agricultural needs.
Speaking to Ohenenana Kwame Amo on Peace FM’s midday news, the Offinso South MP expressed concern over both the size of the allocation and the likelihood of its full release. He described the budget as a “killer ntua” that offers limited hope for real progress in the sector. “Even with the GH₵2.2 billion allocation, I am concerned that the funds may not be fully disbursed to the intended projects,” he said. “This budget does not reflect the urgency required to tackle the numerous challenges confronting our farmers, especially in cocoa, food crops, and livestock production.”
Hon. Opoku further criticized what he described as a pattern of unfulfilled promises and policies by the NDC government over the years. “Time and again, we have seen commitments made to improve the agricultural sector remain on paper,” he noted. “Programs are announced with great fanfare, but farmers hardly see any meaningful benefits. It is disappointing to witness such continued neglect of the sector that is supposed to be the backbone of our economy.”
The MP also raised concerns about the sustainability of agricultural financing and the potential impact on food security. “Without adequate funding and timely release of allocated resources, our farmers cannot plan effectively or increase productivity. This could have serious implications for food security, rural livelihoods, and overall economic growth,” he warned.
He called on government and policy makers to rethink the budgetary priorities for agriculture and to ensure that allocations are realistic and accompanied by concrete measures for implementation. “Agriculture is not just another line item; it is the engine of our economy,” Hon. Opoku emphasized. “If we continue to underfund the sector, we risk stunting growth, undermining farmers’ confidence, and failing our citizens who depend on local food production.”
Hon. Opoku concluded by urging the government to engage meaningfully with stakeholders in the agricultural sector to identify pressing needs and implement policies that will bring tangible improvements. “It is high time we move beyond rhetoric and ensure that farmers receive the support they deserve,” he said.
