EU Supports Feed Ghana Programme with Poultry Boost
150,000 birds distributed to farmers to cut imports and strengthen food security
The European Union has backed Ghana’s Feed Ghana programme with the donation of 150,000 fully vaccinated birds to 3,000 poultry farmers across six districts in the Upper East, Savannah and North East regions.
The support was announced at the launch of the government’s ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ initiative in Kpalbe, located in the North East Gonja District of the Savannah Region.
The intervention, delivered through the EU-funded Food Security Response Northern Ghana Project, is being implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization in partnership with Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
The initiative is aimed at reducing Ghana’s dependence on poultry imports, improving food and nutrition security, and creating employment opportunities along the agricultural value chain. Beneficiaries will also receive feed and essential veterinary services to support production.
Ghana currently spends between $300 million and $400 million annually on chicken imports. Government officials say the programme forms part of a broader strategy to achieve poultry self-sufficiency within three years.
Speaking at the launch, Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, urged farmers to treat the birds as a long-term investment rather than immediate consumption.
“The birds are layers. So, after a month, they will start laying eggs for you,” he said. “You can sell the eggs, keep some for your household, and generate income from the rest.”
He emphasised that the initiative is targeted at vulnerable groups and is designed to improve livelihoods and reduce inequality.
EU Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s agricultural sector.
“Through this delivery, the EU works with the government and our partners at FAO to reduce Ghana’s dependence on imported poultry, boost farmers’ incomes sustainably and create jobs,” he noted.
FAO Representative to Ghana, Priya Gujadhur, highlighted the training component of the programme, noting that beneficiaries have been equipped with practical poultry management and business skills.
Local leaders have welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely amid challenging farming conditions. The Chief of Kakpande, Kakpandewura Kayiti, cited poor harvests and rising food prices as reasons the programme is particularly needed.
The Food Security Response Northern Ghana Project, launched in September 2023 with €10 million in EU funding, is expected to support more than 50,000 farmers while building resilience against the economic impact of global disruptions, including the war in Ukraine.
