Bryan Acheampong, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Abetifi and Minister for Agriculture, has addressed concerns from farmers in Kwahu Nkwatia in the Eastern Region regarding a land development programme. The programme, valued at GHC40 million, aims to support large-scale commercial farming in the area by developing agricultural lands and providing essential inputs like improved seeds and fertilizers.
Acheampong met with farmers, chiefs, and elders to clarify that the government had not seized their lands without due process, as alleged. He explained that the programme was voluntary, and farmers who opted out would have their lands bypassed.
The minister emphasized that traditional farming methods were not creating wealth for farmers due to limited capacity to cultivate larger farms. The government’s initiative aimed to increase productivity and move away from traditional practices.
Acheampong reassured farmers that their lands would not be seized, and developers would excuse those not interested in the programme. Opare Nyarko, convener of a section of concerned farmers, had earlier appealed to the government to ensure farmers were not affected by the initiative.
Acheampong engaged traditional authorities and stakeholders in selecting appropriate lands for development, prioritizing farmers’ interests. He urged the community to avoid inciting the public against leaders, as this could undermine development.
