President John Mahama has directed the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to distribute fertilisers to farmers free of charge this year, in response to the impact of last year’s food glut that left many producers struggling with losses.
The announcement was made during a sod-cutting ceremony to mark the start of construction of a Farmer Service Centre in the Afram Plains South Constituency, part of a broader effort to support agricultural production and rural livelihoods.
Mr. Mahama said the decision was informed by the challenges farmers faced in 2025, when an oversupply of food crops across several regions of the country led to a sharp decline in prices at the farmgate.
Last year’s glut affected a wide range of crops, including cereals, grains and vegetables, with supply exceeding market demand. The imbalance resulted in reduced earnings for farmers, particularly smallholders, some of whom were left with unsold produce or forced to sell at significantly lower prices.
“In the past year, due to a food glut, most farmers have been running at a loss. Imported fertilisers are usually provided to farmers at a subsidised price,” he said.
“However, owing to the challenges they faced last year, I have instructed the Ministry of Agriculture to distribute them free of charge. Therefore, this year, the fertilisers will not be sold to you.”
Fertiliser distribution in Ghana has traditionally been carried out under a subsidy programme, where farmers purchase inputs at reduced prices to support productivity. The shift to free distribution this year marks a temporary policy adjustment aimed at cushioning farmers against recent losses.
The Afram Plains, known as one of the country’s major food-producing areas, was among the regions significantly affected by the glut, highlighting ongoing challenges within agricultural markets, including price volatility and limited absorption capacity.
The government says the new Farmer Service Centres, including the one being constructed in Afram Plains South, are expected to improve access to inputs, extension services and other forms of support to enhance productivity and strengthen the sector
