Mahama announces free fertilizer initiative for 2026 to support Ghanaian farmers

President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a new policy to provide free fertilizers to farmers across Ghana in 2026, shifting from the previous subsidy model to directly alleviate production costs and post-harvest losses.

The announcement was made during the launch of the inaugural Farmer Services Centre in Takoratwene, located in the Kwahu Afram Plains South District. The initiative is a key component of the government’s broader 24-Hour Economy programme, designed to enhance the agricultural value chain and stimulate job creation.

The newly commissioned Farmer Services Centre is intended to operate as a comprehensive hub, providing farmers with access to mechanized land preparation, certified seeds, fertilizers, equipment leasing, irrigation services, and post-harvest storage facilities.

In his address to the gathering, President Mahama detailed the rationale behind the policy shift, emphasizing the need to support farmers who have faced significant losses in recent agricultural seasons.

“We have procured fertilizers for our farmers, which are usually sold at subsidized prices. However, this time, I have instructed the Minister of Agriculture to distribute them free of charge,” the President stated. “This year, fertilizers will not be sold; this measure is intended to cushion farmers against the losses they have incurred.”

The government anticipates that the free fertilizer policy will substantially reduce production costs, thereby boosting national agricultural productivity and strengthening food security across the country.