President John Dramani Mahama has been encouraged by the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) to name a young and seasoned Minister of Food and Agriculture.

According to the company, the candidate should be well-versed in agriculture and equipped to handle the sector's difficulties.

Following President Mahama's inauguration, the peasant farmers released a statement expressing their commitment to assist smallholder farmers and promote agricultural development.

“We humbly request that you nominate a Minister for the agricultural sector who possesses a strong agricultural background, relevant experience, and the ability to connect with stakeholders across the value chain,” the statement said.

Under President Mahama's direction, the Association is sure that smallholder farmers and the agriculture industry will make great strides.

Galamsey and Pwalugu Dam Audit

The group also wants the President to honor his pledge to combat illicit mining under the Presidential Pact. As part of this, they add, mining operations in forests, farmlands, and river bodies must be prohibited, and damaged farmlands must have a thorough land rehabilitation plan.

"When properly implemented, the Pwalugu multipurpose dam has the potential to address climate change issues and provide an additional 20% to 30% of agricultural GDP." However, the previous government exploited the dam as a means of extortion without taking responsibility.

We encourage you to make sure that any illicit money are recovered and given back to the state, since an audit of the Pwalugu Multi-Purpose Dam is on your agenda to guarantee accountability under Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL). Furthermore, we need for financial support to start building the dam within your first 120 days.