MoFA received only 12.4% of 2026 budget allocation by May
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) clarified its financial standing for 2026, stating it had received significantly less funding than widely reported.
Abena Owusu | StatsGH |
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This amount totals GHS 244,321,150 out of an approved budget of GHS 1,970,686,606. The ministry described circulating figures as inaccurate, highlighting severe funding challenges affecting major agricultural programmes and operations.
Ghana's agricultural sector is vital for food security and economic stability. Underfunding in MoFA directly impacts government initiatives to boost food production and support farmers. This situation creates uncertainty for farming communities and the broader food supply chain.
In a statement issued on June 5, 2026, MoFA clarified its financial situation. The ministry pointed out that the information attributed to the Ministry of Finance did not reflect actual funding. It stressed that released funds fell far below reported amounts.
The limited funding has disrupted several important programmes. For its headquarters and agencies, MoFA received only GHS 5,308,195 from a GHS 35,387,967 Goods and Services budget. This represents approximately 15% of the earmarked funds.
Flagship initiatives also face significant shortfalls. The Poultry Farm-to-Table Project, or Nkoko Nketenkete, received GHS 67,369,742 of its GHS 244,985,117 budget, about 27.5%. The Fertiliser and Certified Seeds Programme is severely affected, with only GHS 15,313,000 received from a GHS 515,313,522 budget, roughly 3%.
The National Food Buffer Stock Company received no funding, despite a GHS 200 million allocation. This allocation was for grain purchases and maintaining strategic food reserves. Such a delay threatens the country's ability to manage food supply and price stability.
Capital projects also suffer from delays. No funds have been released for the construction of 50 Farmers’ Service Centres. This project had an approved budget of GHS 690 million, hindering agricultural infrastructure development. Procurement processes and implementation activities remain adversely affected.
Despite these challenges, some capital projects, notably irrigation-related initiatives, received funding support. Total capital releases for these projects reached GHS 150,330,214 by the end of May. This selective funding highlights inconsistencies in budget disbursement.
MoFA urged the public to disregard misleading information about budget disbursements. The ministry emphasized that understanding actual funding releases is crucial for assessing sectoral achievements and setbacks. This clarification comes amidst heightened public scrutiny of government spending and resource allocation to key sectors.
The significant disparity between allocated and released funds could affect public confidence in budget planning. It also raises questions about the government's commitment to agricultural transformation. Observers will closely monitor future budget disbursements and their impact on food prices and rural livelihoods.