Ghana Aims for Rice Self-Sufficiency by 2028 with US$18.8m Boost

Ghana is setting its sights on a major agricultural milestone: producing enough rice to feed itself by 2028. The government has announced a national target of 3.31 million metric tonnes of paddy rice, backed by a US$18.8 million grant from the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Regional West Africa Resilient Rice Value Chains Development (REWARD) Project.

Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on October 7, 2026, Minister for Food and Agriculture Eric Opoku outlined a bold vision to close the gap between local production and demand. Rice is now Ghana's second most important cereal after maize, with rising population, urbanisation, and changing consumer tastes driving demand faster than domestic output can keep up.

The numbers tell a story of progress. Milled rice production climbed from about 650,000 tonnes to 900,000 tonnes in 2024, then hit 960,000 tonnes in 2025. Yet local production still meets only about 56 per cent of national demand. The remaining 44 per cent comes from imports, costing Ghana between US$320 million and US$500 million every year.

Opoku made a compelling case for change: that money could stay in Ghana, enriching farmers, millers, and traders instead of foreign suppliers. The REWARD Project is a key part of the government's Feed Ghana Programme, designed to boost production and cut import dependence.

What the REWARD Project will deliver

The project will develop 3,200 hectares of land for rice production in the Northern Savannah Ecological Zone. More than 20,000 smallholder farmers across districts like Tamale Metropolitan, Mion, Savelugu, East Mamprusi, West Gonja, Bawku West, Wa Municipal, Sissala East, and Nandom will receive support.

Farmers will get quality seeds and access to mechanisation, with the goal of lifting yields from 3.5 tonnes to 4.5 tonnes per hectare. The government will provide rotary tillers, seed drills, mini crawler combine harvesters, rice transplanters, and boom sprayers. Ten strategically located rice processing centres will be equipped with mini GEM rice parboiling vessels, and hermetic storage cocoons will help cut post-harvest losses.

Beyond equipment, the project links farmers to markets and private-sector players, creating jobs and improving incomes. Rice produced under the REWARD banner will also supply schools, prisons, and other public institutions with quality, locally grown grain.

A smart approach to imports

Opoku was clear that Ghana is not banning rice imports. Instead, the government is linking import quotas to local investment. Importers must establish verifiable partnerships with local producers before they get import permits.

“We are not banning imports, which would only hurt consumers. Instead, we are channelling the value of imports into local production and empowering our farmers,” he said.

This pragmatic approach aims to strengthen domestic industry while keeping prices fair for consumers. It is a win-win that reflects a growing confidence in Ghana's agricultural potential.

Japan steps in with extra support

Adding to the momentum, the Government of Japan is providing a ¥394 million grant, roughly US$2.49 million, to boost rice seed production capacity. The CARD Grant Aid Project will deliver combine harvesters, trucks, seed-cleaning machines, maintenance tools, air blowers, dusters, high-pressure cleaners, transformers, and a monitoring vehicle. The equipment arrives in November 2026, with training for value-chain actors to improve quality and competitiveness.

What this means for Ghana's future

This is more than a farming project. It is a statement of intent. Ghana is moving toward food security, economic resilience, and a stronger position in global markets. The REWARD Project is set to launch formally in the first week of November 2026, ahead of the 2027 production season.

Opoku expressed confidence that the project will be implemented quickly and transform Ghana's rice industry. For a nation with ambitious goals, this is a step in the right direction. The money saved on imports can be reinvested in schools, roads, and healthcare. The farmers gain dignity and income. And Ghana moves closer to feeding itself.

The road to 2028 is clear. With the right support and determination, Ghana can turn this vision into reality.

Frequently asked questions

When will Ghana achieve rice self-sufficiency?

Ghana targets rice self-sufficiency by 2028, with a national production goal of 3.31 million metric tonnes of paddy rice.

How much is the REWARD Project worth?

The REWARD Project is backed by a US$18.8 million grant from the African Development Bank.

What support will farmers receive?

Farmers will get quality seeds, mechanisation, training, and access to markets, with a focus on increasing yields from 3.5 to 4.5 tonnes per hectare.

Will Ghana ban rice imports?

No, Ghana will not ban imports. Instead, import quotas will be linked to local investment, requiring importers to partner with local producers.