John Mahama Pledges to Address Maize Pricing Woes for Sissala Farmers
By Araphat Dimah
Former President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential Candidate, John Dramani Mahama, has assured farmers in the Sissala area that he would tackle the persistent challenges in maize pricing when elected into office.
Speaking at a farmers’ forum held at the Tumu College of Education (TUTCO), today, March 9, 2024, Mahama has emphasized the need for fair pricing to alleviate the struggles faced by maize sellers in the region.
During his address, Mahama outlined key initiatives he aims to support the agricultural sector, particularly focusing on maize farmers in the Sissala area. He has therefore pledged to include the private sector in the Ghana buffer stock, ensuring good pricing that aligns with the cost of production for commodities like maize.
Mahama’s commitment is in response to the plight shared by farmers during the forum, who have been unable to find buyers for their produce, resulting in reduced prices and financial challenges for them.
In addition to addressing maize pricing concerns, Mahama has highlighted various strategies to boost the agricultural sector:
Taking his “Build the Ghana We Want” tour to the Sissala area, Mr. Mahama has also promised to prioritize the construction of roads, specifically highlighting the Duu – Bawiesibelle bridge, a vital link for transporting farm produce to the market.
As a farmer himself, Mahama has again pledged to revamp the Tumu cotton ginnery, to support the cotton industry under his flagship 24-hour economy policy.
The former president stated he is committed to providing farm inputs and small loans to sesame, soya beans, and other cereals farmers to enhance cultivation and expansion.
He has, however, encouraged the formation of cooperatives, such as farmers’ service centers, to streamline support services and create a one-stop shop for farmers.
Meanwhile, the flagbearer in his speech has recognized the crucial role of women in socio-economic development, and has promised to consider women in job creation and urged market women to form cooperatives for targeted assistance.
The former president also addressed challenges in the education sector, promising to scrap licensure exams and incorporate teacher trainee licensing into their final-year exams. He vowed to address delays in teacher postings, emphasizing the importance of a well-functioning education system.
On agriculture business, Mr. Mahama acknowledged and lauded efforts of Kedan, a maize milling factory in Tumu, and has expressed his commitment to supporting the expansion of Kedan in line with his 24-hour economy policy. He also announced incentives for private agricultural businesses that will align with the 24-hour economy drive.