By Prince Ahenkorah
The government is finally set to launch its long-awaited ‘Nkokɔ nketenkete’ program in the first week of October, a move that comes after an earlier postponement in July.
Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, announced the new date, assuring poultry farmers and stakeholders that the delay was necessary for broader consultations.
The decision followed concerns from the industry about inadequate engagement in the initial planning process.
Opoku made the disclosure at the launch of the second phase of the West Africa Livestock Marketing Programme (PACBAO) in Accra.
“Plans are far advanced, and it is expected that by the first week of October, His Excellency the President will officially launch the program,” he said.
The minister added that the list of beneficiaries is being finalized, procurement processes have been completed, and distribution will begin immediately after the launch.
The ‘Nkokɔ nketenkete’ program is a flagship initiative designed to transform Ghana’s poultry industry and reduce the nation’s heavy reliance on imports.
Ghana currently spends over $300 million annually on poultry imports, a situation the government says drains foreign exchange reserves and undermines local job creation.
Under the new scheme, farmers will be supplied with improved poultry breeds, quality feed, vaccines, and technical support to boost productivity.
This is expected to increase domestic supply, lower production costs, and gradually close the demand gap currently filled by imported chicken.
The government believes a revitalized poultry industry could create tens of thousands of jobs, especially for rural youth and women, while also improving food security. A thriving poultry sector could also stimulate allied industries like maize and soybean production, which are key inputs for poultry feed.
If properly implemented, the government believes the ‘Nkokɔ nketenkete’ program could be a game-changer, positioning poultry as a backbone of Ghana’s agricultural economy.