Afram Plains to host first Farmer Services Centre as President Mahama pushes mechanised agriculture
President John Dramani Mahama has broken ground for the construction of Ghana’s first Farmer Services Centre at Takoratwene in the Afram Plains, marking what he described as a decisive step towards modernising the country’s agricultural sector.
The sod-cutting ceremony, held on Saturday, fulfils a key pledge made during the 2024 election campaign and signals a shift in government policy towards mechanised, technology-driven farming.
Addressing farmers and local residents, President Mahama stressed the need to move beyond subsistence methods, arguing that Ghana must adopt modern agricultural practices to remain competitive. “The era of farming with traditional tools such as cutlasses and hoes must give way to modern, mechanised agriculture,” he said. “Across the world, developed countries are far ahead because they have embraced technology and sophisticated machinery in farming.”
The proposed centre is designed as an integrated agricultural support hub, providing access to tractors, combine harvesters, threshers and other equipment, alongside a dedicated maintenance unit to ensure operational efficiency. It will also function as a training facility, where registered farmers will be equipped with modern techniques and best practices.
A central component of the project is a soil testing laboratory intended to guide farmers in crop selection and fertiliser application, with the aim of improving yields and reducing input waste. The facility will further offer access to seeds and fertilisers, supported by extension officers to provide technical assistance.
In addition, the centre will include storage infrastructure such as warehouses and silos, enabling farmers to avoid distress sales during harvest periods. Under the model outlined by the President, the facility will purchase produce, store it, and release it onto the market when prices are more favourable.
“Government will also introduce a minimum recommended price each year to guarantee farmers receive fair prices for their produce, often higher than prevailing market rates,” the President announced.
He explained that the Afram Plains was selected for the pilot phase because of its role as a major food-producing area, particularly for maize, cassava and groundnuts. “The Farmer Services Centre represents a bold step towards modernising agriculture in Ghana,” he said. “Together, we can transform Afram Plains into a true engine of food security and economic growth for our nation.”
The President also outlined complementary interventions aimed at boosting agricultural productivity. He disclosed that funding for food purchases under the National Buffer Stock Company had been increased from GH¢200 million last year to GH¢300 million this year, while fertilisers would be supplied free of charge to farmers following losses recorded during the previous bumper harvest.
He further assured that no new permits had been issued for maize imports, emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting local producers.
Beyond agriculture, President Mahama announced infrastructure projects to enhance access to markets, including the award of a contract to SONITRA Constructions Limited for the construction of the Adawso–Ekye Amanfrom bridge across the Afram River. He added that irrigation schemes covering about 900 hectares had already been initiated in the area to promote year-round farming, while the Adawso–Abloblodepke road would be upgraded under the Big Push Programme.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to reposition agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, job creation and food security.
