Food and Agriculture Minister Eric Opoku Breaks Ground on GHS 4.1 Million Inland Valley Project in Aninkroma

The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has officially launched the construction of a GHS 4.1 million Inland Valley project in Aninkroma, located within the Atwima Nwabiagya North District. This initiative, developed under the Food Systems Resilience Project (FSRP), is designed to address seasonal water shortages by providing a reliable, year-round water supply to local farmers. By mitigating the risks associated with rain-fed agriculture, the project aims to significantly bolster agricultural productivity and enhance food security within the region.

The construction phase is projected to span 16 months, during which infrastructure will be established to sustain farming activities regardless of the season. Local stakeholders have expressed strong support for the initiative, with District Chief Executive (DCE) Mr. Mba Zechariah Alenbilla noting the transformative potential the project holds for the district’s economy. Similarly, local leader Nana Gyedu Kumanin IV commended the government for the intervention, which is expected to improve the sustainable livelihoods of residents who depend primarily on farming.

During the sod-cutting ceremony, Minister Opoku also emphasized the importance of modernization and youth participation in the sector. To further incentivize excellence in farming, the Minister announced that the 2026 National Best Farmer would be honored with substantial rewards, including a vehicle and a tractor. He encouraged the youth to view agriculture not just as a means of survival, but as a viable and profitable path for economic growth and personal prosperity.

This development comes as part of a broader push by the government under President John Mahama to strengthen Ghana's food systems against climate-related shocks. By investing in resilient infrastructure like the Aninkroma Inland Valley project, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture seeks to create a more robust agricultural backbone that can withstand environmental pressures. As the project progresses over the next year and a half, it is expected to serve as a model for similar climate-smart agricultural interventions across other farming communities in Ghana.