Reacting to the 2026 State of the Nation Address delivered by President John Dramani Mahama, the Effutu MP suggested that while the administration speaks confidently about supporting farmers, the real energy of government seems directed elsewhere.
He made the remarks during a panel discussion on Newsfile, where he stressed that agriculture requires more than headline announcements.
According to Afenyo-Markin, a government truly committed to agricultural transformation would demonstrate it through sustained investment, clear policy execution, and visible leadership from the sector ministry.
Instead, he believes the spotlight has been dominated by the establishment and promotion of the Ghana Gold Board, which he argues has taken precedence over farming and agro-processing.
He maintained that Ghana’s economic stability depends heavily on boosting local food production, strengthening value chains, and supporting rural farmers.
In his view, focusing excessively on gold accumulation while food prices remain high sends the wrong signal to struggling households.
Meanwhile, the government insists it has backed its promises with strong financial commitments. The 2026 budget provides GH¢2.2 billion to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
Beyond that, GH¢1.7 billion has been allocated to roads, agro-processing zones, and value chain development.
Additional provisions include GH¢245 million for food security and agro-industrial projects, GH¢828 million for enclave road construction, and GH¢690 million for Farmer Service Centres.
Despite these allocations, Afenyo-Markin argues that effective implementation not figures on paper will determine whether farmers truly feel the impact of government policy.