The Nationwide Meals Buffer Inventory Firm (NAFCO) says it wants at the very least GH¢770 million to purchase extra rice and different grains from farmers throughout the nation amid issues over market entry restrictions and delays in authorities procurement underneath the Free Senior Excessive Faculty (Free SHS) programme.
The disclosure follows complaints from farmers who declare that NAFCO has not absolutely applied its mandate to supply regionally grown rice to be used in second-cycle amenities, with reviews that some colleges proceed to depend on imported rice.
Talking on the Metropolis Breakfast Present on Tuesday, Might 5, 2026, NAFCO spokesperson Emmanuel Arthur defined that the quantity of unsold grain far exceeds the corporate’s present financing capability.
“However the issue is that this: when the order was given, a sure sum of money was given, GH¢100 million,” he stated. “In reality, now we have instructed the federal government that we want at the very least GHF770 million to wash up the scenario for our farmers.”
He identified that despite the fact that the total quantity was requested, the federal government had permitted a small preliminary intervention.
“However the authorities stated, “We do not have a lot, so we’ll provide you with GH¢100 million to start out.” That was in 2025,” he added.
Mr Arthur additional revealed that further funding has been indicated within the 2026 nationwide funds to assist this programme.
“Then within the 2026 funds, the federal government indicated that it intends to provide us an extra GH¢200 million. We’re ready for that,” he stated.
Nafco’s feedback come amid mounting strain from rice farmers who say procurement delays are impacting their livelihoods and leaving giant quantities of produce unsold.
The federal government had beforehand directed NAFCO to prioritize the acquisition of regionally produced rice for the free SHS program as a part of its efforts to assist home agriculture and cut back dependence on imported meals.
