Ghana stands at a critical crossroads—between imported dependency and local empowerment. As global food prices fluctuate and economies tighten, one truth becomes clearer than ever: Ghana cannot afford to continue ignoring its rich local food systems while pouring millions into foreign imports.
Despite ongoing campaigns to promote Ghana rice, the government continues to import rice from Thailand for the school feeding program. This contradiction sends a dangerous message—one that undermines local farmers, discourages homegrown innovation, and erodes national food security.
“It makes no sense to promote Ghana rice and still go abroad for the same rice to feed our children,” says a concerned food activist. “That is not wisdom—it is a clear betrayal of local potential.”
Time to Taste Ghana
Ghana is blessed with tubers—cassava, yam, cocoyam, and potatoes. Yet, we still rely heavily on imported wheat and rice for daily consumption. Why not use cassava to make bread? Why not turn sweet potatoes into gari? The possibilities are endless, but it requires intentional action.
Government intervention is crucial—not just in words, but with policies that work. Providing collateral-free funding to food innovators and producers will help create “acquired tastes” using local ingredients. People only develop a taste for what they consistently eat. So why not introduce free food tasting programs in schools, communities, and public spaces?
Food Is Culture—Let’s Shape It Intentionally
A visionary proposal gaining attention suggests incorporating chocolate—a leading export product—into school meals. By introducing children early to locally made chocolate, we cultivate taste and national pride. By the time they become adults and earners, they will crave what is Ghanaian, not foreign.
The Bottom Line
Change will not come by chance. We must stop dreaming of different results while doing the same thing. It’s time to move from rhetoric to action. Ghana’s food policies must be intentional, inclusive, and proudly local. Supporting our farmers and food entrepreneurs is not just an economic necessity—it is a patriotic
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