The 5th National Poultry Day celebration in Accra served as a platform for a resounding call to action, urging stakeholders across the agricultural sector to prioritize and invest in local poultry production. Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, underscored the significance of poultry farming, emphasizing its multifaceted nature that extends beyond mere agricultural practice. She positioned it as a cornerstone of cultural heritage, national identity, and a vital instrument in achieving food sovereignty while preserving the richness of Ghana’s traditional cuisine. The minister’s impassioned plea centered on redirecting the substantial financial resources currently expended on poultry imports towards bolstering domestic production systems, fostering self-reliance and economic growth within the nation. Her challenge to stakeholders was not merely a rhetorical question but a direct call for a paradigm shift in their approach, demanding concrete action to revitalize the local poultry industry.
Central to Madam Gomashie’s argument was the incongruity of relying heavily on imported poultry feed while possessing the potential to develop sustainable local alternatives. She directed her appeal specifically to researchers and entrepreneurs, urging them to collaborate in devising innovative solutions to address the challenges plaguing the poultry sector. This collaborative approach, she argued, would not only reduce dependence on external inputs but also stimulate local economies and create new opportunities within the agricultural value chain. The minister’s emphasis on self-sufficiency resonated with the broader theme of national development, highlighting the potential of the poultry industry to contribute significantly to Ghana’s economic progress and food security.
Reinforcing the minister’s sentiments, Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, Mr. John Setor Dumelo, echoed the immense potential of poultry farming as a catalyst for livelihood creation and national growth. He portrayed the current climate as an opportune moment for individuals to engage in poultry farming, emphasizing its accessibility even at a small scale. Dumelo highlighted the dual benefit of even modest household poultry rearing: reducing reliance on imported poultry products while simultaneously providing a sustainable source of food for families. This grassroots approach, he suggested, would contribute cumulatively to national food security and empower individuals to participate directly in the agricultural economy.
The National Poultry Day celebration was punctuated by the launch of the “Nkunkor Nkiti Nkiti” project, a significant initiative aimed at promoting household poultry farming as both a lifestyle choice and a contribution to national development. This project underscores the importance of integrating poultry farming into the fabric of Ghanaian society, encouraging individual participation at all levels. The distribution of birds to participants and schools, including prominent institutions like Accra Academy, PRESEC Legon, and Achimota SHS, symbolized the project’s commitment to fostering a culture of poultry farming from a young age, embedding its principles within the educational system.
The event further showcased the integral role of poultry in Ghana’s cultural landscape through a series of culinary exhibitions and competitions. These displays highlighted the diversity and richness of Ghanaian cuisine, demonstrating the versatility of poultry in various traditional dishes. By celebrating the culinary heritage associated with poultry, the event underscored its cultural significance, reinforcing its position as more than just an agricultural commodity but a vital component of Ghana’s culinary identity.
The convergence of calls for increased local poultry production, the launch of the “Nkunkor Nkiti Nkiti” project, and the celebration of poultry-based cuisine collectively conveyed a powerful message: investing in local poultry is not just an economic imperative but a cultural and national imperative. By prioritizing local production, Ghana can strengthen its food security, stimulate economic growth, and preserve its rich culinary heritage. The challenge now lies in translating these calls to action into tangible results, fostering a thriving and sustainable poultry industry that benefits all stakeholders, from individual families to the nation as a whole. The emphasis on self-sufficiency, coupled with the focus on household poultry farming, presents a compelling vision for a future where Ghana’s poultry industry plays a central role in its economic and cultural development.
