Former Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, who is seeking to become the flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 elections, has reiterated his national development plan for the country, dubbed: the Ghana Transformational Plan (GTP) on how he will prioritise agriculture.
The seven-point plan, among other things, seeks to provide a strong macroeconomic environment, a new agricultural revolution (NAR) for the country, industrial transformation, digital mainstreaming, energy security and diversification, decarbonisation and climate resilience.
According to him, optimizing Value to Farmers by the establishment of Farmer-owned Large Scale Commercial Farms and Processing Facilities which will bring the full benefits of the agriculture value chain to farmers.
He said this in a radio interview with Koforidua based Afeema fm during his one day tour in Koforidua of Eastern Region.
According to him, he will introduce Technology and Innovation into Agriculture, through Research & Development (R&D)
in Agronomy, Mechanization, Irrigation, and Plantation Management.
He believes this will build on the foundation laid by the Planting for Food and Jobs and Planting for Export and Rural Development (PERD) Programmes.
“Our farmers cannot be competitive without technology and innovation” he said.
He said,the establishment of Licensed Food Distribution and Marketing companies by the Private Sector throughout the country at the district level, to be supported by the Government.
He added that these companies will constitute a vital link between farmers and Market Queens in the urban and peri-urban areas.
“It will be complemented by the introduction of a digitalized food distribution and marketing online platform which will connect producers to buyers and consumers” he said.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
