Ghana Government Orders Buffer Stock Company to Buy Surplus Grains to Support Farmers and Boost Food Security
The Government of Ghana has directed the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to begin purchasing surplus grains from farmers nationwide as the country braces for an anticipated bumper harvest in 2025. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) says the large-scale grain procurement initiative is designed to prevent a market glut and protect farmers from post-harvest losses, especially with unsold carry-over stocks from the 2024 harvest still in warehouses.
According to MoFA, this marks the first time since NAFCO’s creation that significant funding has been allocated for such extensive grain purchases and storage. Officials say the plan will not only secure a ready market for farmers but also build up strategic food reserves to cushion the nation against future shortages and emergencies.
The ministry urged farmers to remain calm and assured them that NAFCO will be active on the ground to buy their produce at fair prices. “Working with all relevant agencies and stakeholders, MoFA is committed to ensuring every grain produced by Ghanaian farmers finds a sustainable and profitable market,” the ministry said in a statement.
The intervention follows warnings from the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG) that the grain sector is “on the brink of crisis,” with more than 100,000 metric tonnes of maize and rice from the 2024 harvest still unsold. CAG said the glut, exacerbated by cheap imports and smuggled substandard grains—has driven farmers into debt, forced them to sell below cost, and threatened the viability of local processors.
CAG also raised concerns about smuggled rice and maize evading duties and quality checks, alleging collusion between smugglers and corrupt border officials. The chamber warned that the influx of illicit grains deprives the government of tax revenue, weakens the domestic value chain, and undermines Ghana’s food sovereignty. By directing NAFCO to absorb surplus stocks, officials hope to stabilise prices, protect livelihoods, and strengthen the nation’s food security outlook.
source: citi newsroom