The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has urged President John Dramani Mahama to appoint a youthful and experienced Minister for Food and Agriculture.
The group stated that the nominee should have a strong agricultural background and the expertise to tackle the challenges in the sector.
In a statement congratulating President Mahama after his inauguration, the peasant farmers expressed its readiness to support smallholder farmers and drive agricultural growth.
“We humbly request that you nominate a Minister for the agricultural sector who possesses a strong agricultural background, relevant experience, and the ability to connect with stakeholders across the value chain,” the statement said.
The Association is confident that smallholder farmers and the agricultural sector will achieve significant progress under President Mahama’s leadership.
Galamsey and Pwalugu Dam Audit
Also, the group wants the President to uphold his commitment to the Presidential Pact against illegal mining.
This they say must include enforcing bans on mining activities in forests, farmlands and river bodies with a comprehensive land reclamation plan for damaged farmlands.
“The Pwalugu multi-purpose dam has the potential to address climate change issues and provide additional 20% to 30% of agricultural GDP when properly implemented. However, the dam has been used as an avenue for extortion by the previous regime without accountability.
Recognizing that an audit of the Pwalugu Multi-Purpose Dam is part of your agenda to ensure accountability under the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), we urge you to ensure that any illegal funds are recovered and returned to the state. Additionally, we request a budgetary allocation to commence construction of the dam within your first 120 days”.
