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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has asked Ghana to return 27,000 tons of maize and rice borrowed in 2018 during a food security crisis.
This demand was revealed by Ghana’s Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, during the launch of the Feed Ghana Programme on April 12, 2025. He explained that ECOWAS officials had recently visited his office to request repayment of the borrowed food.
“They said Ghana owes them rice and maize of about 27,000 tons, which we borrowed in 2018, and that they are asking that we refund it,” Mr. Opoku stated.
He added that he has requested a one-year grace period from ECOWAS on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama to gather the required quantities without affecting local food supply.
“Once we commence the Feed Ghana initiative, we will come and repay the loan in one year’s time,” he assured.
The Feed Ghana Programme is a major government initiative aimed at modernizing agriculture, strengthening food security, and transforming the economy. President Mahama emphasized its role in job creation, reducing food inflation, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
The government’s appeal for a grace period highlights its effort to meet international commitments while ensuring food sufficiency for citizens through improved local production.
