President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the National Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to acquire excess agricultural produce from farmers nationwide, in light of increasing concerns regarding unsold crops and declining market prices.
The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, announced this during an interview on Monday, November 10, 2025, addressing the widespread grievances from farmers, especially those growing rice, maize, and other grains.
He clarified that the President’s directive is intended to support farmers impacted by the surplus and to stabilize food prices.
“The National Buffer Stocks is in the process of purchasing rice, maize, gari, and various other grains from the farmers,” Mr. Opoku stated.
The minister noted that the government had initially allocated GH¢100 million for these purchases, which have already been completely expended. He mentioned that he had personally confirmed the amounts procured.
“As we speak, the initial GH¢100 million that the government allocated has been fully utilized, and I have been informed of the quantities available. I have visited the stores to inspect the amounts they have, and I also possess the paper receipt detailing the procurement,” he remarked.
Mr. Opoku also disclosed that the government has sanctioned an additional GH¢100 million to allow NAFCO to persist in purchasing directly from farmers in the fields.
“An extra GH¢100 million has been allocated for them to continue their purchases in the field,” he added.
