John Dumelo Outlines Plans to Boost Agriculture through Irrigation and Livestock Expansion

The Ministry of Food and Agriculture is set to tackle the country’s growing dependence on food imports through improved irrigation systems, a move that will also help address climate change.

During his vetting at Parliament House recently, Deputy Minister-Designate, Mr. John Setor Dumelo, emphasized that a well-structured irrigation system will enable year-round crop production, reduce excessive drought, and mitigate flooding. He acknowledged that while irrigation is a costly venture, the long-term benefits will outweigh the expenses. According to him, Ghana currently has 223 irrigation systems, out of which only 189 are operational.

On the issue of cocoa farmers selling their lands to illegal miners, Mr. Dumelo expressed confidence in the sector Minister’s commitment to ensuring fair pricing for cocoa produce. He believes this measure will discourage farmers from giving up their lands for mining activities.

Addressing the need to boost livestock production to improve protein intake among Ghanaians, he noted that the Ministry will revamp livestock breeding centers by introducing new breeds and decentralize production to ensure accessibility across the country.

“As a farmer, I have personally faced major challenges such as access to credit for expansion, land tenure issues, and lack of machinery,” Mr. Dumelo stated. However, he added that despite these hurdles, he has successfully inspired many young people to venture into agriculture. He encouraged them to start small, emphasizing that the Ministry will provide capacity-building support through initiatives like the ‘Nkukor Nkititi’ program outlined in the NDC manifesto, rather than direct capital.

Mr. Dumelo believes that the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has the potential to create numerous job opportunities for farmers, drivers, processors, and other industry players.

Hailing from Likpe in the Oti Region, Mr. John Dumelo is the CEO of Melo Foods, a company specializing in processed ginger and other agricultural products. He is also a staunch Catholic and a practical farmer at heart.

By Mercy Akpene Amevor || GhanaNewsOnline