Ghana to Halve 751,000 Tonne Rice Deficit in 10 Years

Ghana plans to eliminate its 751,000-tonne rice deficit within the next decade. This goal follows a strong call from Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang for African nations to take greater control of their food systems. Ghana currently consumes 1.71 million tonnes of rice annually but produces only 960,000 tonnes. This leaves a 56% self-sufficiency rate and an annual import bill of GHS 4.2 billion.

The Vice President stressed that excessive reliance on imported food exposes countries to vulnerability. Recent climate shocks, geopolitical tensions, and trade restrictions have highlighted the fragility of global food supply chains. Despite fertile land and abundant water resources, Africa spends over GHS 700 billion annually on food imports, with rice forming a major part. Strengthening regional cooperation and strategic agricultural investment are crucial for resilient economies.

This initiative fits into Ghana’s broader economic strategy to reduce import dependence and boost local industries. The nation’s large food import bill impacts its balance of payments and foreign exchange reserves. Achieving food self-sufficiency, particularly in staple foods like rice, can strengthen macroeconomic stability. It also aligns with the government's aim to industrialise agriculture and create jobs.

Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, reinforced Ghana's commitment to this goal. He announced a new rice import quota policy. This policy requires importers to show verified partnerships with local rice producers before receiving import permits. The government has also completed advanced satellite mapping of rice-suitable lands. This provides investors with specific and verified opportunities across the country.

Ghana’s efforts to boost local rice production are expected to save GHS 25.2 billion in foreign exchange over 10 years. It aims to attract more than GHS 5.6 billion in private investment. The initiative also expects to create over 200,000 jobs in the agricultural sector. The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, situated these discussions within a broader regional context. He described rice as a strategic commodity vital for food security and economic growth in West Africa.

ECOWAS Heads of State endorsed the Regional Rice Roadmap (2025–2035) in 2024. This roadmap provides a unified framework for investments aimed at achieving rice self-sufficiency across West Africa. Although regional rice production increased by 44% between 2008 and 2024, demand still outstrips supply. The region remains heavily reliant on imports. Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, called for increased investment in the sector. He noted West Africa spends between GHS 42 billion and GHS 56 billion annually on rice imports. This happens despite possessing the resources to produce more local rice. Transformational capital is needed for irrigation, storage, milling, and logistics infrastructure. This will unlock the full potential of the rice economy, transforming it from a subsistence activity into a modern, commercial industry.