A Review of the Government Food Policy on Agricultural Productivity in Ghana

Abstract

Food policy supports agriculture and household food security by encouraging farmers to increase output. Despite implementing the Planting for Food and Jobs program in Ghana, the country still imports staple crops, suggesting mixed effectiveness. This study analyzed challenges, beneficiary perceptions, and policy impacts on agricultural productivity using secondary data from Sekyere Kumawu District, Ashanti Region, Ghana. Ghanaian beneficiaries were older and educated, had smaller households, and had less experience on larger plots. The Ghanaian farmers received improved seeds, fertilizers, and subsidized seeds. The farmers viewed the food program positively regarding food security. Key challenges PFJ faced were funding, resource allocation, implementation, environmental factors, post-harvest losses, market access, and economic challenges. Both programs positively impacted crop productivity. Agricultural policy recommendations include providing suitable machinery, ensuring access to high-quality seeds, adjusting production targets, prioritizing comprehensive training, improving stakeholder collaboration, and switching from indirect to direct subsidies can enhance food policy efficiency in Ghana.