Accra, July 1, 2025 – “If we’re spending millions of dollars to import poultry, then surely that same amount can be invested to strengthen our systems here,” declared Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, in a rousing appeal to agricultural stakeholders. Her statement, both bold and urgent, challenged the nation to rethink its priorities and move from dependency toward self-reliance. “This is not just a rhetorical question,” she emphasized. “It is a challenge to every stakeholder to think differently and act boldly.”
Speaking at the 5th National Poultry Day celebration in Accra, the Minister’s remarks galvanized an audience that included policymakers, farmers, chefs, cultural leaders, and civil society actors. The event showcased a unified national push for homegrown innovation, local value-chain development, and a collective vision for poultry self-sufficiency.
Minister Gomashie highlighted the cultural significance of poultry beyond its economic value, urging Ghanaians to embrace poultry farming not merely as a business opportunity but as a national lifestyle rooted in tradition and identity. “Why should Ghana continue importing poultry feed when local alternatives can be developed?” she asked, calling on researchers, entrepreneurs, and institutions to collaborate on sustainable, locally sourced feed solutions.
Her message was echoed by Hon. John Setor Dumelo, Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, who framed poultry farming as a key pathway to economic empowerment. “This is the best time to be a poultry farmer in Ghana,” he stated. “Even if you start with just ten birds in your backyard, you are reducing imports and feeding your family.”
The day’s centerpiece was the launch of the “Nkukor Nkete Nkete” project, an initiative encouraging household poultry farming as both a practical livelihood and a patriotic duty. As part of its rollout, birds were distributed to various participants and Senior High Schools, including Accra Academy, PRESEC Legon, and Achimota SHS.
The celebration also featured culinary showcases and competitions, demonstrating the versatility and richness of Ghana’s poultry cuisine and reaffirming its place at the heart of both heritage and national development.
Source: Public Relations Unit – MoTCCA
