The Ghanaian government has enacted an immediate ban on the export of grains, including maize, rice, and soybeans, in response to the severe drought affecting the Northern regions of the country. The announcement was made by the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, during a press briefing in Accra on Monday, August 27, 2024.
The decision aims to ensure the availability of essential crops for the domestic market during this period of challenging weather conditions. The prolonged dry spell, which has persisted for over two months, has severely impacted crop growth, raising concerns about food security and the livelihood of farmers in the region.
Minister Acheampong emphasized that the ban is crucial to maintaining the domestic supply of grains. He also urged farmers with existing grain stocks to contact district directors, aggregators, or the crops directorate if they are interested in selling their produce. This measure is intended to support farmers and prevent them from incurring losses due to the export ban.
The Northern region’s ongoing drought has left many farmers struggling, with the lack of rain stunting crop growth and diminishing hopes for a successful harvest. The government’s intervention seeks to address these challenges and safeguard the nation’s food security during this critical time.