The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has called on District Chief Executives (DCEs) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) operatives to cease politicizing the distribution of fertilizers and seeds intended for farmers.
At a press conference in Accra on August 15, 2024, PFAG Executive Director Bismark Owusu Nortey revealed that some public officials are demanding payments for inputs and services that should be free under the Planting For Food and Jobs Phase II (PFJ 2.0) program.
He criticized the politicization of the input distribution formula, which has allowed certain officials and politicians to solicit money from farmers despite the program’s intent to provide free assistance.
Owusu Nortey expressed concern over the involvement of NPP parliamentary candidates and DCEs in the distribution process, questioning whether these roles are appropriate or if they signal a change in policy under PFJ 2.0.
He asked about the criteria used for distribution and the payment arrangements for beneficiaries, urging clarity on why politicians are involved in what should be a non-political process.
The PFAG also urged the government to address additional challenges faced by farmers, including providing emergency relief such as water supplies and pumping machines for those near water bodies.
Owusu Nortey called for financial support in the form of grants or low-interest credit to help farmers recover and rebuild their livelihoods.
