Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), has expressed confidence that the Jospong Group Rice Project will significantly reduce if not completely eliminate, the importation of rice into Ghana.
Speaking at the Ghana Food Security Conference in Gomoa Fetteh, Dr Agyepong emphasized the commitment of JGC to address challenges and implement effective solutions, stating, “With this project that we have begun, wallahi talahi, the rice importation must end.”
He encouraged stakeholders, especially rice farmers and scientists, to remain hopeful despite the lack of adequate policies supporting the initiative, assuring them that when the project yields positive results, policies will change in their favour.
Dr. Agyepong quoted former president Barack Obama, urging the government to choose hope over fear in banning rice imports, and instead trust that Ghanaian farmers will be motivated and empowered to produce quality rice for the country.
Mrs Adelaide Siaw Agyepong, CEO of the Asian African Consortium (AAC), leading the Jospong Group Rice Project, highlighted the importance of science, research, and development in driving innovation and productivity.
She warned that without immediate measures to enhance food production, Africa's annual food import costs could rise from $50 billion to $110 billion by 2030.
Mrs Agyepong emphasized the motivation behind the project, stating that the aim is to bridge Ghana's food security gaps and mitigate the impact of food crises on the poor.
Prof. Paul Bosu, Director General of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), expressed hope that the conference would contribute to Ghana's goal of achieving food security and self-sufficiency in rice production.
He stressed that Ghana has all the necessary resources to become food secure and highlighted the recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between CSIR and AAC to collaborate in achieving this vision.
Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Labi, speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, commended the partnership between CSIR and Jospong Group, noting that it aligns with the Church's vision of national transformation.
He emphasized the significance of the conference theme, “Enhancing Food Security: The Role of Ghanaian Scientists,” particularly during challenging economic times.
The Church of Pentecost reiterated its support for government objectives in achieving food security and generating more foreign exchange, emphasizing the importance of local initiatives alongside international assistance.
The conference brought together various partners, including universities, civil servants, agencies, and international partners from Nigeria and Thailand, to address Ghana's food security challenges.