Ghanaian rice farmers have abandoned their fields for the 2026 planting season, holding over 700,000 metric tonnes of unsold paddy rice from the previous harvest. This significant unsold stock represents a major financial setback for farmers across the country. Only about 20% of last year's 960,000-metric-tonne harvest has sold.
Farmers lack the capital and incentive to plant again because their warehouses remain full of unsold rice. This situation prevents them from paying debts to combine harvester operators or securing new funds. Dr. Charles Nyaaba, a farmer and former director of the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG), confirmed that valleys are empty, contrary to normal ploughing activity.
This development adds pressure to Ghana's efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency and reduce its reliance on imports. Ghana heavily imports rice, accounting for 70% of domestic consumption. The country spends hundreds of millions of dollars importing rice from nations such as Vietnam, Thailand, and India.
Dr. Charles Nyaaba expressed concerns about the lack of tangible government intervention to purchase the excess grain. He stated that assurances for a government mop-up have not translated into action on the ground. "I can confidently say that less than 20 percent have been able to secure a market," Dr. Nyaaba underlined.
Experts warn that reduced local production will severely impact the economy. Professor Abdullah Mumuni, Head of the Economics Department at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), highlighted potential increases in Ghana's rice import bill. This could further strain the local currency and increase inflation. Furthermore, halving local production capacity threatens jobs in the agriculture sector and could slow Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.
Looking ahead, a significant reduction in anticipated rice cultivation means decision-makers must act swiftly. Dr. Nyaaba plans to cultivate only half of his farm, reflecting a broader trend where less than 50% of rice valleys will be farmed this year. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture needs to deliver pledged support to farmers immediately. If the 700,000 metric tonnes of excess paddy rice were milled, it could produce about 350,000 metric tonnes for consumers.
Professor Mumuni recommends a quota system for rice imports to boost local consumption and support farmers. He also urged local producers to improve rice quality to encourage domestic purchases. Post-harvest challenges, including inefficient milling and inadequate processing equipment, currently affect local rice quality. The government's "Feed Ghana" programme aims to provide input support and mechanisation services. However, timely implementation is crucial to avoid further economic and social consequences. Without urgent policy intervention, the distress experienced by farmers could quickly worsen rural poverty, as noted by Professor Joshua Yindenaba Abor, former Dean of the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS).