Introduction
The rice sector in Ghana holds significant potential to be a cornerstone of national food security, economic growth, and rural development. Recognizing this, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is committed to transforming Ghana's rice sector into a sustainable, resilient, and competitive industry. This comprehensive strategy aims to enhance productivity, ensure market access, and improve the socio-economic well-being of rice farmers and communities across the country.

2. Analysis of Relevant Policies and Strategies

2.1. Feed Ghana Programme

Transformational Grains Development (TGD) Project: A key aspect is the focus on increasing local production of rice alongside other staples like maize, rice soya beans, and sorghum. The initiative aims to improve food security, support the livestock industry and reduce dependency on imports.

Infrastructure Support: Establishment of Farmer Service Centres in agricultural districts to support farmers with modern equipment, technologies, and inputs.

2.2. Agro-Processing for Economic Expansion and Jobs

Mini Rice Mills: The plan includes facilitating the establishment of mini rice mills to support smallholder rice farmers and processors, ensuring that they have access to processing facilities that can add value to their produce and increase their income.

Strategic Crop Development: Although more focused on tree crops like cashew and shea, the strategic crop development initiative indicates the government’s commitment to developing other key agricultural sectors, which can be applied to rice farming.

2.3. Innovative Agriculture Financing

Farmer’s Cooperatives: Establishing cooperatives in every district to bring smallholder farmers together for enhanced farmer traceability and access to resources.

Government Agriculture Insurance Subsidy (GAIS): This program will mitigate the risks associated with (rice) farming by providing insurance coverage, making the sector more attractive to investors and farmers.

2.4. Agricultural Infrastructure for Increased Production

Irrigation Expansion: Expansion of cultivable land under irrigation, including specific projects like Nasia-Nabogo and Accra Plains, which could directly benefit rice farming communities.

Agro-Production Enclaves: Establishment of these enclaves with appropriate infrastructure, including irrigation systems, would be pivotal in increasing rice production efficiency.

2.5. Youth and Women Inclusion

Youth Agriculture-Estate Programme (YAP): This program, aimed at encouraging youth participation in agriculture, includes financial support, land access, and mechanized tools, which could be tailored to support young rice farmers.

Support for Women in Agriculture: Initiatives focusing on women’s participation in the agricultural sector could help empower female rice farmers, providing them with the necessary resources and support.

3. Strategic Pillars

3.1 Enhancing Rice Production and Productivity

To boost rice production and improve productivity, the NDC government will implement targeted support programs focused on infrastructure development and the adoption of advanced farming technologies:

Transformational Grains Development (TGD) Project: This project will focus on increasing rice production through the continuation of a more efficiently implemented fertilizer subsidy program, improved access to quality seeds, and the adoption of modern farming techniques. The goal is to significantly enhance productivity by promoting high-yield rice varieties, efficient planting methods, and effective water management systems.

Infrastructure Expansion: The government plans to double the cultivable land under irrigation by constructing new systems and rehabilitating existing ones, particularly in regions identified as rice belts. This expansion will ensure year-round rice production and improve agricultural productivity.

Farm Banks: To facilitate access to modern farming equipment and inputs, the NDC will establish Farm Banks that offer affordable credit and financial services tailored specifically for rice farmers.

3.2 Strengthening Market Access and Value Addition

To ensure fair market access and enhance value addition, the NDC government will focus on market integration and the establishment of critical infrastructure:

Market Access and Export Promotion: The government will create robust market links by integrating rice farmers into the broader agricultural value chain. This includes supporting the export of premium rice varieties through strategic trade agreements and participation in regional markets.

Mini Rice Mills and Processing Facilities: Public-private partnerships will be leveraged to establish mini rice mills in rice-growing areas. These facilities will reduce post-harvest losses, enhance the quality of locally produced rice, and make it competitive in both domestic and international markets.

3.3 Promoting Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Practices

The NDC government will promote environmental stewardship through sustainable farming practices and a comprehensive climate adaptation strategy:

Sustainable Farming Practices: The use of organic fertilizers, biopesticides, and integrated pest management will be promoted to reduce the environmental impact of rice farming. Farmers who adopt sustainable techniques that enhance soil health and conserve water will receive incentives.

Climate Adaptation Strategy: A strategy will be developed for rice farming communities, including training on climate-smart agriculture, access to real-time weather information, and disaster preparedness initiatives.

Research and Innovation: Investment will be made in agricultural research institutions to develop high-yield, pest-resistant, and climate-resilient rice varieties. Collaboration with local and international research bodies will ensure the development of farming techniques tailored to Ghana's specific needs.

3.4 Institutional Support and Capacity Building

The NDC government will strengthen institutional support and build capacity across the rice sector:

Farmer Service Centres: These centres will be established in all rice-growing districts to provide farmers with access to modern equipment, technologies, and training on best practices. They will serve as hubs for agricultural innovation and knowledge sharing.

Youth and Women Empowerment: Targeted programs will be implemented to engage youth and women in rice farming, providing them with access to land, credit, and technical support. Women-led rice farming cooperatives will receive grants and training to enhance their operations.

Farm Banks and Cooperatives: The establishment of farm banks and cooperatives will ease access to credit, inputs, and markets for rice farmers, improving their bargaining power and financial stability.

4. Expected Outcomes

Successful implementation of these strategies is expected to yield the following outcomes:

Sustainability: Adoption of climate-resilient and sustainable farming practices will preserve the environment and ensure long-term agricultural productivity.

Private Sector Investment: Urgently promote collaboration with the private sector across the agricultural value chains for investment in sustainable agricultural production and productivity.

Increased Rice Production: Significantly raise rice production to progressively reduce imports. through enhanced irrigation, better seeds, and modern farming techniques.

Improved Market Access: Enhanced value addition and market access will result in increased income for rice farmers and a competitive position in the global rice market.

Empowerment of Youth and Women: Increased participation of youth and women in the rice sector will lead to broader socio-economic benefits for rural communities.

Economic Growth: The rice sector will contribute to national food security, reduce rice imports, and stimulate economic growth through increased exports and job creation.

5. Resetting Ghana’s Rice Sector

The NDC's commitment to revitalising Ghana's rice sector is grounded in a strategic approach that addresses production, market access, sustainability, and capacity building. By implementing these initiatives, the next NDC government aims to empower rice farmers, enhance food security, and contribute significantly to Ghana's economic development.

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The writer is spokesperson on Agriculture & Agribusiness of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)