Ghana Pledges Affordable Agricultural Credit During National Farmers’ Day

Ghana celebrated its 41st National Farmers’ Day in Ho, Volta Region, honoring the indispensable contributions of its agricultural sector to national development. This annual tradition, established in 1985, serves not only to recognize farmers and fishermen but also to highlight government initiatives aimed at strengthening the nation’s agricultural productivity. In a landmark announcement, President John Dramani Mahama unveiled a commitment to broaden affordable credit access for farmers, signaling a renewed focus on modernizing the sector and ensuring food security.

During his keynote speech, President Mahama emphasized the prohibitive cost of credit as a major challenge limiting the growth of agriculture. He observed that current commercial bank interest rates discourage farmers from expanding operations or investing in modern techniques. “Farmers work tirelessly, only to shoulder loans at rates that impede progress. To achieve sustainable food security and bolster agricultural output, we must make borrowing more accessible and affordable,” Mahama stated.

The president revealed that the government intends to ensure agricultural loans carry single-digit interest rates, aiming below 10 percent. This policy is designed to help farmers invest in modern farming methods, acquire high-quality seeds and fertilizers, purchase equipment, and scale production to meet both domestic and regional demands. Mahama underscored that lowering borrowing costs is a critical step toward transforming Ghana’s agricultural sector into a sustainable economic driver.

Central to the celebrations was the recognition of individual excellence. Abraham Kwaku Adusei, an 82-year-old veteran farmer, was named Overall National Best Farmer for 2025. Honored for his decades-long dedication, Adusei received 1.2 million Ghanaian cedis, along with farming equipment and agricultural inputs. His achievements exemplify perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to improving productivity, serving as inspiration for other farmers to adopt best practices.

National Farmers’ Day, observed annually on the first Friday of December, has evolved into a comprehensive forum that brings together policymakers, financial institutions, extension officers, and farmers. It provides a platform to discuss challenges, share knowledge, and explore strategies that can increase productivity and sustainability within the sector. Over time, the event has grown beyond mere celebration to become a catalyst for policy implementation and community engagement.

President Mahama highlighted the link between affordable credit and national food security, explaining that low-cost financing allows farmers to purchase inputs, machinery, and irrigation systems necessary to boost yields and reduce import dependence. “When farmers thrive, the nation thrives,” he asserted, emphasizing that a productive agricultural sector underpins both domestic prosperity and regional competitiveness.

Mahama also urged farmers to embrace modern techniques, including mechanization, climate-smart agriculture, and digital solutions for market access. Combining innovation with traditional expertise can enhance resilience against pests, weather fluctuations, and other threats that have historically limited production.

Capacity building and extension services were highlighted as another key priority. The government plans to expand training programs, workshops, and advisory support to ensure farmers are equipped to implement new practices effectively. These initiatives aim to improve both yield and product quality, fostering competitiveness at national and international levels.

The celebration also showcased Ghana’s socio-economic reliance on agriculture. Millions of citizens are employed within the sector, making farming a cornerstone of rural livelihoods. By providing affordable loans, technical support, and recognition, the government seeks to sustain livelihoods, reduce poverty, and reinforce the sector’s role in economic development.

Abraham Kwaku Adusei’s recognition reinforces the importance of celebrating experience and dedication. His decades of mentoring younger farmers and contributing to local food security exemplify the value of investing in human capital. His award, accompanied by financial and material support, demonstrates the government’s commitment to incentivizing excellence and reinvesting in productive activities.

The Farmers’ Day exhibitions offered participants insight into cutting-edge agricultural products, machinery, and innovations. Financial institutions and agri-tech companies introduced loan schemes, insurance products, and digital solutions that facilitate market access, risk management, and financial inclusion for farmers. By integrating celebration with practical education, the event strengthened connections between policy, practice, and the wider agricultural ecosystem.

Regional and international partners welcomed Ghana’s focus on empowering farmers. Experts emphasized that affordable credit and technical support are crucial for food security and long-term economic growth. The focus on modernization, particularly through low-interest financing and skill development, was widely seen as a pragmatic approach to addressing both historical challenges and emerging pressures such as climate change and market fluctuations.

Looking ahead, the government will closely monitor the impact of these initiatives by tracking loan uptake, productivity, and income changes among farmers. This evaluation will inform improvements to credit schemes and other support programs, ensuring sustainability. The overarching aim is to create a model in which financial access, technological innovation, and recognition of excellence collectively drive sectoral transformation.

Ultimately, Ghana’s 41st National Farmers’ Day exemplifies a comprehensive strategy integrating affordable credit, capacity building, and innovation. By reducing borrowing costs, promoting modern farming techniques, and honoring outstanding contributions, the government strengthens both agricultural productivity and national food security. As President Mahama emphasized, supporting farmers is a social, economic, and strategic imperative.

The event also reflected Ghana’s dual approach to agricultural policy: addressing systemic challenges while celebrating individual excellence. With access to affordable credit, adoption of modern farming practices, and sustained government support, Ghanaian farmers are poised to expand their role in economic development, secure the nation’s food supply, and contribute to long-term sustainable growth.

By Ekolense International News Desk