The Minister for Finance, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam has announced that the government has earmarked GH¢8 billion to provide relief and implement mitigative measures for farmers impacted by the ongoing drought in Northern Ghana.
While acknowledging that the response may not completely neutralize the severity of the crisis, Dr. Amin Adam emphasized that the allocated funds will help stabilize the situation until the crisis subsides.
He revealed that the government is working to raise approximately $500 million, equivalent to GH¢8 billion, to finance the crisis response programme.
The relief package will include cash transfers, food supplies, and other essential items to assist the affected farmers.
A technical task force, comprising members from the Ministries of Finance and Food and Agriculture, will oversee the distribution of these relief items to ensure fairness and accountability.
During a press briefing on Monday, August 26, Dr. Amin Adam explained that GH¢2.5 billion of the GH¢8 billion allocated will be sourced from the contingency fund, while GH¢2.4 billion will come from development partners.
The World Bank’s contribution will be directed towards cash transfers and the provision of agricultural inputs.
The severe drought in Northern Ghana, which has persisted for over two months, has raised significant concerns about food security and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.
The prolonged dry spell has stunted crop growth, leaving farmers with little hope for a successful harvest.
