By Nana Ofori Owusu , Contributing Columnist

President John Dramani Mahama’s recent directive requiring all basic and secondary schools in Ghana to purchase only locally produced rice, maize, chicken and eggs marks one of the most transformative policy shifts in our food and agriculture landscape. Announced through Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the policy signals a bold commitment to rebuild Ghana’s self-reliance and stimulate the productive sectors of the economy.

For decades, Ghana has poured scarce foreign exchange into importing food items that can be grown and processed domestically. The results have been predictable: rural poverty, abandoned mills, collapsing poultry farms, and persistent pressure on the cedi. This directive represents a strategic and corrective intervention.

A Needed Boost for Local Agriculture

Guaranteed institutional demand from schools will significantly expand market opportunities for Ghanaian farmers and value-chain actors. It will allow producers to plan confidently, invest in improved technologies, and expand their operations. For many farming communities, this policy could be the difference between struggle and sustainable livelihoods.

The Economic Logic Is Clear

1. Strengthening the Cedi

Redirecting government-backed purchases to local producers reduces the nation’s import bill and eases pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

2. Creating Jobs Across the Value Chain

From the farm to the mill, from hatcheries to feed producers, from processors to transporters — every stage stands to benefit.

3. Building National Food Security

A country that relies heavily on food imports is dangerously vulnerable to global shocks. Local procurement strengthens resilience.

4. Reviving Dormant Industries

Rice mills, poultry farms, and processing plants that have languished for years can now retool and expand with predictable demand.

Success Will Depend on Implementation

The directive is sound, but execution will determine its true impact. Public institutions must adhere strictly to transparent procurement standards. Schools must be supported with supply-chain coordination, and local producers must receive timely payments to maintain consistent supply.

Additionally, the government must reinforce the enabling environment through:

            •           Modern storage and transport facilities

            •           Financing opportunities for smallholders and cooperatives

            •           Quality assurance systems

•Enforcement measures to ensure compliance

This is a moment that demands discipline, monitoring and an unwavering commitment to the Ghanaian farmer.

A Step Toward National Self-Belief

This directive is not merely a procurement instruction — it is a philosophical shift. It signals a return to the foundational idea that Ghana must feed itself, employ its people, and preserve its resources for national development.

If sustained and expanded to include hospitals, the security services, tertiary institutions and state agencies, the impact will be profound.

Conclusion

President Mahama’s directive is timely and commendable. It can catalyse rural prosperity, strengthen the cedi, energise local industries and chart a new path toward national self-sufficiency. But to achieve its full potential, all stakeholders — government agencies, suppliers, school administrators and local producers — must uphold the spirit and discipline required to make it work.

When Ghana buys Ghana, Ghana builds Ghana.