The National President of the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana, Wepia Awal Adugwala, has welcomed President John Mahama’s nomination of John Dumelo as Deputy Minister-Designate for Food and Agriculture.
President Mahama announced Dumelo’s appointment on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
Speaking to Citi News, Mr. Adugwala emphasized the association’s long-standing call for the Agriculture Ministry to be led by individuals with direct industry experience.
He expressed confidence that Dumelo, being a farmer himself, understands the challenges faced by farmers.
“We have always advocated that those at the ministry should have firsthand knowledge of the difficulties farmers face. So, we believe that with John Dumelo being a farmer, he understands these challenges,” he stated.
The association also noted that Dumelo’s youthful energy could help attract more young people into agriculture.
“Looking at his youthful nature, we expect policies that will encourage the youth to engage in agriculture, leveraging technology to make modern farming easier and more productive,” he added.
Mr. Adugwala further highlighted Dumelo’s knowledge and experience, stating that he is well-positioned to support the implementation of President Mahama’s 24-hour economy policy in the agricultural sector.
This, he noted, would empower smallholder farmers to produce sufficient raw materials to sustain agro-based industries.
