Ghana targets rice self-sufficiency through Korea’s K-rice belt project – Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has announced Ghana’s commitment to achieving rice self-sufficiency through enhanced cooperation with the Republic of Korea under the K-Rice Belt Project.
Speaking during bilateral talks with the South Korean President, Mahama emphasised that agriculture remains a key pillar of Ghana’s development strategy, particularly in ensuring food security and reducing the country’s reliance on imported rice.
“With regard to bilateral relations, we have focused strongly on agriculture and agribusiness to help achieve food security,” President Mahama said.
He noted that Ghana’s partnership with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has been instrumental in supporting local rice production and improving agricultural productivity.
“Our cooperation with KOICA has been very important, particularly in increasing rice production through the K-Rice Belt Project,” he stated.
According to the President, the introduction of high-yielding rice varieties through the project will help Ghana significantly expand domestic production and reduce the country’s heavy dependence on rice imports.
“We look forward to the availability of high-yielding rice varieties that will help us expand production. Rice has now become a staple food in Ghana, and we want to reduce the amount of rice we import,” he added.
Mahama explained that strengthening the rice sector will not only improve food security but also create jobs and stimulate agribusiness development across the country.
Beyond agriculture, the President highlighted broader opportunities for Ghana and Korea to deepen economic cooperation by combining Ghana’s natural and human resources with Korea’s advanced technology and innovation.
“Ghana has abundant natural and human resources, while Korea has technology and innovation. I believe we can bring these strengths together in a win-win partnership,” he said.
He also pointed to Ghana’s strategic role within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), whose secretariat is located in Accra, describing it as a major opportunity for investors seeking access to Africa’s growing market.
“Our goal is to position Ghana as a hub for production and exports to the rest of Africa,” President Mahama noted.
The President expressed optimism that continued cooperation between Ghana and Korea, particularly in agriculture and agribusiness, would significantly contribute to Ghana’s long-term food security and economic growth.
