Michael Tetteh Kwetey is new President of the Ghana National Association of Farmers and Fishermen
The newly-elected President of the Ghana National Association of Farmers and Fishermen (GNAFF), Michael Tetteh Kwetey, has pledged to protect the welfare of members and ensure that government support reaches farmers and fisherfolk across the country.
Speaking at a handing-over ceremony in Accra, Kwetey said his leadership would focus on tackling the diversion of subsidised inputs such as premixed fuel, marine gasoline oil, and fertiliser, which are often targeted at supporting productivity in the agricultural and fisheries sectors.
“My leadership will ensure that whatever policy or support is meant for our members reaches them, no matter their location,” he said, in an interview on the sidelines of the ceremony.
“We will work to stop the diversion of government inputs and make sure they get to the right people on time,” he said.
He issued a warning to those involved in diverting resources intended for farmers and fisherfolk.
“I am sending a strong message to those who used to divert items such as fertiliser and premix fuel. This practice will no longer be tolerated, the law will catch up with them,” he said.
Kwetey said GNAFF would not hesitate to scrutinise and assess government agricultural policies to ensure they reflect the needs of its members.
“We are ready to collaborate with government to enhance productivity and address challenges such as food insecurity,” he said. “But we will also speak up where policies fall short.”
The new president described Ghana’s farmers and fisherfolk as “heroes,” adding that no society could function without their contribution. “Their work sustains livelihoods, supports local economies and feeds the nation,” he said.
He also promised to embark on nationwide visits to better understand the working and living conditions of farmers and fisherfolk and to identify ways the association can support them more effectively.
“Our renewed strength as an association reflects our strategic importance to the national economy,” Kwetey said. “We are entering a new era of progress, transformation and productivity in agriculture.”
Furthermore, Michael Kwetey pledged to work closely with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, saying GNAFF would act as a “wealthy partner in the reset agenda” to support a resilient agricultural economy.
“We must put the interests of farmers and fisherfolk first. Together, we will increase productivity, improve profitability, and strengthen our contribution to Ghana’s economy,” he said.
The outgoing president, Nene Terkpertey Agblezie I, who led GNAFF through several years of growth, expressed confidence in his successor and urged members to support the new leadership.
