6th October 2025.
Hon. Sarah Amoakoa, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Asante Akyem North, together with the Member of Parliament, Hon. Ohene Kwame Frimpong, warmly welcomed the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, to Agogo during his working visit to the Municipality. The visit marked a significant moment for the area as the Minister cut the sod for the construction of a tomato processing factory at Agogo in the Asante Akyem North Municipality of the Ashanti Region.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader effort to boost agro-industrialisation and improve livelihoods under the Feed Ghana Initiative.
During the visit, Hon. Eric Opoku announced the formation of a special committee to address the growing farmland dispute between local farmers and the Forestry Commission, following complaints that portions of farmlands had been allocated to private developers. He assured that he would work closely with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources to find a fair and lasting resolution.
“We cannot allow anything to disrupt food production, especially in key farming zones like Agogo. Government will collaborate with all stakeholders to protect farmers and national food security,” he emphasised. The Minister further noted, “I have established a local committee here in Asante Akyem to address the farmland issues. However, I am personally taking up the matter with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources to ensure a permanent resolution.”
The Asante Akyem North enclave, one of Ghana’s major food baskets, has long grappled with land conflicts and challenges from Fulani herdsmen. To further support farmers, the Minister distributed 2,000 bags of fertiliser and improved tomato, onion, and watermelon seeds—marking the year’s second round of input distribution.
As part of his working tour, Hon. Eric Opoku also commissioned a mechanised borehole for traders at the Agogo Plantain Market to improve access to clean water and presented ₵50,000 to the District Assembly to support the District Road Improvement Program (DRIP), aimed at easing the transportation of farm produce.
Hon. Ohene Kwame Frimpong, who had earlier raised concerns about the land dispute, praised the Minister’s swift intervention and the new factory project, describing it as “a major relief for our farmers and a clear sign of the government’s commitment to agriculture and rural development.”
Traditional leaders, farmers, and local authorities also commended the Minister’s visit, calling it a timely boost for agribusiness and livelihoods in the area. The Minister was accompanied by Hon. Sarah Amoakoa and senior officials from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
