Ghana faces the ongoing challenge of achieving food security, particularly with fluctuating seasonal prices and the increasing impact of climate change.
A potential solution, often overlooked, lies in revitalising the agricultural colleges established during the First Republic by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. These institutions, strategically located across the then seven regions of Ghana, offer a ready-made foundation for boosting food production and stabilising the nation’s food supply.
Nkrumah’s foresight was remarkable. Each college was equipped with research units staffed by experts and possessed vast hectares of land, earmarked for both experimental farming and large-scale crop and animal production.
The carefully selected locations boasted of soil types specifically suited for cultivating particular crops, maximising the yield potential. These colleges still own and control substantial landholdings, a significant asset that could be rapidly leveraged with targeted investment.
Imagine the impact of syncing these institutions with initiatives like President Mahama’s proposed farmers’ centres. The existing infrastructure and land, coupled with modern agricultural techniques and farmer support programmes, could generate a substantial increase in food and meat production, significantly reducing Ghana’s reliance on imports and ensuring consistent food availability throughout the year.
The strength of these colleges isn’t solely in their land and infrastructure. Their expertise, in conjunction with the Agricultural Extension Officers present in every district, forms a powerful network for supporting local farmers.
By collaborating on research, providing practical training, and disseminating best practices, these colleges can empower farmers to enhance their yields and adopt sustainable farming methods. This synergy will contribute to a more resilient and productive agricultural sector overall.
Beyond the historical agricultural colleges in locations like Kwadaso, Ejura, Damongo, Wenchi, Bonsu, Nyankpala, Abor, Pong Tamale and Adidome, a plethora of universities across the country also possess agricultural colleges and farmlands. This widespread presence strengthens the potential for a coordinated national effort.
One of the greatest advantages of using the agricultural colleges as a starting point is their rapid mobilisation capability. They possess existing management structures, experienced staff, and established agricultural practices, allowing them to swiftly ramp up production and respond to pressing food security needs.
Furthermore, the integration of the National Buffer Stock Company into this system is crucial. By purchasing produce directly from the agricultural colleges, the Buffer Stock Company can effectively manage the flow of food into the market, particularly during lean seasons.
This strategic intervention would mitigate the drastic price fluctuations that often plague the market, making food more accessible and affordable for all Ghanaians.
Besides, jobs will be created for graduates of the colleges themselves and graduates of other institutions that teach agriculture related courses such as the Agricultural Engineering Department of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
Finally, investing in irrigation systems at these agricultural colleges, drawing from both surface and underground water sources, would enable year-round crop production. This would break the cycle of seasonal dependency on rain-fed agriculture and guarantee a stable food supply regardless of rainfall patterns, crucial in the face of climate change.
By breathing new life into Nkrumah’s vision and investing in these strategically located agricultural colleges, Ghana can take a decisive step towards achieving food security, empowering local farmers, and building a more resilient agricultural sector for generations to come. The existing infrastructure, coupled with strategic investment and effective collaboration, offers a tangible pathway to a food-secure future.
Anthony Obeng Afrane
