Gov’t directs release of 50,000 bags of grain to ECOWAS

The Ghanaian government has instructed the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to release 50,000 bags of grain to fulfill a debt owed to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). President John Dramani Mahama issued the directive through Minister of Food and Agriculture Eric Opoku. The debt stems from a 2018 borrowing agreement to aid the School Feeding Programme.

At NAFCO's Annual General Meeting, Opoku confirmed the company's 20,433 metric tonnes of grain storage, which is adequate for the repayment. He emphasized that the company has procured more than the required amount to settle the loan. Opoku attributed this success to Ghana's enhanced agricultural output, noting that the country produced 4.6 million tonnes of maize in 2025, surpassing the 3.6 million tonnes estimated national consumption, leaving a surplus of one million tonnes.

Additionally, NAFCO's financial health has improved, moving from a 2024 net loss of 19 billion cedis to a 2025 net profit of 91.7 billion cedis before tax. Gross profit margin also rose from 1.61 percent in 2024 to 13.96 percent in 2025. The CEO of NAFCO, George Abradu-Otoo, attributed these advancements to better management and a focus on maintaining smooth operations.

He shared that the company has bolstered its auditing, procurement, and food safety units. Abradu-Otoo highlighted that improvements included the establishment of an audit department and stricter cost control, ensuring that expenditures are justified before payment. Ongoing efforts aim to provide every district in Ghana with food storage facilities.