Rice farmers at Twifo Afosua in the Twifo-Atti-Morkwa District of the Central Region say they may be forced to sell their farmlands to illegal miners if the government fails to intervene and purchase their produce.
The farmers, who have invested heavily in rice cultivation through bank loans, say the absence of ready buyers has left them struggling to stay afloat, with large quantities of harvested rice remaining unsold.
Leader of the Twifo Praso Rice Farmers Cooperative Union, Eric Offei, called on the government to establish a Rice Board, similar to the Cocoa Board and Gold Board, to regulate the sector and guarantee a market for local rice producers.
He said many farmers are under severe financial pressure due to mounting debts and the lack of income from their produce.
A machine operator at Twifo Nuamakrom, Agya Yaw, also stressed the need to prioritise rice farming, noting that a well-supported sector could create jobs and help reduce youth involvement in illegal activities such as galamsey and robbery.
The farmers are urging the government to take urgent action to support the industry and prevent what they describe as a looming crisis that could push many into making difficult decisions.
Source: GNA
