President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to support the local poultry industry by patronizing domestically produced chicken instead of imported ones.
He said increased consumption of locally produced poultry would boost the national economy, create jobs, and strengthen food security.
Speaking at the official launch of the Nkoko Nkitinkiti Poultry Industry Revitalization Initiative at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi, President Mahama emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency and renewed commitment to local production.
“The Nkoko Nkitinkiti initiative represents more than poultry production; it embodies the spirit of renewal and self-belief,” President Mahama said.
“Let’s take pride in producing what we eat and eat what we make. After processing, the chicken will be properly branded for markets and stores. Please buy stamped Ghana chicken and stop patronizing imported chicken.”
The President also directed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to release an additional GHC 200 million to purchase surplus maize and rice from farmers affected by the current nationwide food glut.
He said the intervention is aimed at stabilizing the market and supporting farmers who have been unable to sell their produce due to oversupply.
Farmers across the country, particularly those producing maize, rice, and poultry, have in recent months faced challenges in marketing their produce.
President Mahama noted that the Nkoko Nkitinkiti initiative forms part of government’s broader efforts to revitalize the agricultural sector, enhance food security, and promote local agribusiness development.
“This is not just about chicken,” the President added. “It is about empowering our farmers, sustaining livelihoods, and building an economy that thrives on what we produce.”
The launch, which was held under the theme “Empowering Farmers, Enhancing Food Security: Growing Ghana’s Poultry Industry,” brought together stakeholders in agriculture, farmer associations, development partners, and representatives of the poultry industry.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
