The National Food Buffer Stock Company is shifting toward local sourcing of food supplies and expanding warehouse infrastructure as part of efforts to strengthen Ghana’s food security, its CEO said.
George Abradu-Otoo said the company plans to prioritize local suppliers in regions where food is produced, rather than transporting goods from distant cities.
“It is not right to bring suppliers from Accra to the Upper East when local farmers can provide the same goods,” he said.
Mr Abradu-Otoo said the strategy is aimed at supporting local economies while ensuring efficiency in food distribution to schools under the Free Senior High School program.
He also outlined a long-term goal of establishing at least one functional warehouse in every district to store food reserves for emergencies and school feeding programs.
The initiative includes collaboration with the World Food Programme, which has pledged a $37 million grant to construct a large warehouse facility in northern Ghana.
Mr Abradu-Otoo said promoting consumption of locally produced rice is another priority, citing Ghana’s heavy reliance on imports, estimated at about $500 million annually.
He added that education on proper preparation of local rice will be key to improving its acceptance among consumers, particularly students.
