Ghana’s Agriculture Minister, Bryan Acheampong, has set the record straight on the financial support for farmers affected by the recent dry spell in the northern regions. Contrary to Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s claims, the government is providing GH¢1,000, not GH¢3,000, to each of the affected farmers. This clarification came after Dr. Forson alleged that the ruling government was using the funds to gain political favor ahead of the December 7 elections.

The dry spell has severely impacted agricultural productivity in the northern parts of Ghana, with over 435,000 farmers already affected and an estimated GH¢3.5 billion lost. Minister Acheampong emphasized that the GH¢1,000 support is intended to provide subsidized agricultural inputs, particularly fertilizers, to vulnerable farmers.

Minister Acheampong’s clarification aims to reassure farmers and the public that the government’s support is genuinely focused on alleviating the effects of the dry spell, rather than seeking political gain.