The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to establish tractor stations in farming communities throughout Ghana if elected president in the upcoming December 7 polls.
These tractor stations, according to Mahama, will provide critical mechanized support and resources, alleviating the challenges farmers face in accessing modern agricultural tools and services.
Addressing a gathering of supporters and local farmers at Kwame Danso in the Sene West District of the Bono East Region as part of his 2024 campaign tour, Mahama underscored the importance of supporting Ghana’s agricultural sector to ensure food security, economic growth, and sustainable development.
“When the NDC comes to power, all farming communities will receive their share of tractor stations,” Mahama announced. “Sene West will have its own center, equipped with 10 tractors, and everything you need to make farming easier will be available for you to access.” He emphasized that the initiative would enable farmers to have easier access to mechanized equipment, ultimately increasing their productivity and boosting the agricultural sector’s contribution to the national economy.
Mahama explained that the tractor stations would provide a wide range of farming equipment and services, including tractors, plows, harvesters, and other essential tools needed for efficient farming. He highlighted that the program aims to reduce the dependency on manual labor, which has often slowed down farming activities and limited output. By providing these resources, the NDC aims to empower farmers to increase their yield and improve their livelihoods.
To ensure that all farmers benefit from the program, Mahama said that farmers would need to form cooperatives and register their names. “Farmers will need to form cooperatives and register their names, after which their farmlands will be measured to determine what each has. Once registered, you can go to the tractor stations and receive the assistance you need,” he explained. The formation of cooperatives is intended to foster collaboration among farmers, enabling them to pool resources and access equipment and services at reduced costs.
The former president further elaborated on his plans to introduce agricultural reforms that would enhance food production and security. He noted that the initiative is part of the NDC’s broader agricultural policy, which aims to modernize the sector, increase productivity, and create jobs, particularly for the youth in rural communities. “Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and we must do everything possible to support our farmers and make farming a profitable venture,” Mahama stressed.
Mahama also promised that his government would ensure that farmers have access to affordable financing, quality seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs needed to boost production. He highlighted the importance of creating an enabling environment for farmers by investing in rural infrastructure, including roads and storage facilities, to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access. “Our farmers deserve better infrastructure, better roads, and better market facilities to transport their produce and get better prices,” he added.
The NDC flagbearer reiterated his commitment to reviving the agricultural sector, which he described as a key pillar of Ghana’s economy. He called on farmers to support his vision and vote for the NDC in the upcoming elections to bring about the change they need. “We have done it before, and we will do it again. We will make agriculture attractive and profitable for all,” he assured.
Mahama’s pledge to establish tractor stations has been widely welcomed by local farmers who have long complained about the difficulties in accessing mechanized support. Many farmers at the gathering expressed optimism that the initiative would help address the challenges they face and improve their productivity. “This is what we have been waiting for. We need these tractors and other equipment to make our work easier and to increase our yields,” said Kwame Osei, a local farmer.
Analysts believe that Mahama’s proposed agricultural reforms could have a significant impact on Ghana’s economy, especially in rural areas where farming is the primary source of livelihood. By providing farmers with the necessary tools and resources, the initiative could lead to higher agricultural productivity, increased incomes, and improved food security.
In addition to the tractor stations, Mahama’s agricultural plan also includes the establishment of agro-processing centers to add value to farm produce, thereby creating jobs and boosting local economies. He emphasized that his government would work to reduce the cost of farm inputs and provide incentives to encourage private sector investment in agriculture.
Mahama concluded his speech by encouraging farmers to unite and support the NDC’s vision for a transformed agricultural sector. “Together, we can make Ghana a breadbasket in the sub-region. Let’s work together to make this dream a reality,” he urged.
As the December elections draw nearer, Mahama’s promises to farmers and his plans for agricultural reforms are likely to play a critical role in his campaign strategy, aiming to win the support of Ghana’s large rural electorate. With agriculture remaining a vital part of the country’s economy, the NDC’s focus on improving conditions for farmers could be a key factor in swaying votes in their favor.
