Poultry Imports Set to Decline as Government’s ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ Initiative Gains Momentum – John Dumelo

The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has expressed optimism that Ghana’s dependence on imported poultry products will significantly decrease as the government’s flagship poultry development program, Nkoko Nkitinkiti, begins to deliver results. Currently, Ghana produces only about five to six percent of its poultry consumption needs, leaving the country heavily reliant on imports.

“We know our consumption patterns, and currently we only produce five to six percent of what we consume in poultry. That is why we launched the Nkoko Nkitinkiti project – to ensure sufficient poultry products in the country. Once the program fully takes off, imports will drop drastically,” he said.

Mr. Dumelo revealed that the first phase of bird distribution under Nkoko Nkitinkiti has been successfully completed, with preparations already underway for the second phase nationwide. The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to revitalize Ghana’s poultry industry, improve food security, create jobs, and reduce the country’s import bill.

The Deputy Minister made these remarks during the official launch of the 6th Edition of Ghana Poultry Day, scheduled for July 1, 2026, at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra. Over the years, Ghana Poultry Day has combined advocacy with direct support for poultry farmers and aspiring producers.

During last year’s event, more than 5,000 day-old chicks were distributed to selected beneficiaries, encouraging poultry farming and supporting livelihoods. Speaking at the launch, Executive Chairperson of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, noted that many beneficiaries have successfully developed productive poultry enterprises, boosting household incomes and local food production.

This year’s event is expected to attract poultry farmers and associations, agribusinesses, feed manufacturers, processors, students, chefs, hospitality industry players, financial institutions, development organizations, government agencies, media practitioners, and the public. Ms. Akosa called on corporate organizations, development partners, and stakeholders to support the initiative through sponsorships, exhibitions, technical partnerships, and public education campaigns.

Also at the launch, Bright Demordzi, National Coordinator of the Feed Ghana Programme, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the poultry industry. He assured stakeholders that efforts would continue to scale up production, strengthen value chain linkages, and create a conducive environment for sustainable growth.

“We remain committed to sustaining the momentum, increasing local production, and working closely with all stakeholders to build a resilient, competitive, and self-reliant poultry industry for Ghana,” he said.

Industry experts highlight poultry production as a critical sector capable of creating thousands of jobs while enhancing national food security and economic growth. With government interventions like Nkoko Nkitinkiti, the Feed Ghana Programme, and the annual Ghana Poultry Day, there is optimism that Ghana can gradually reduce reliance on imported poultry and strengthen local production capacity.

As the country advances toward agricultural transformation and self-sufficiency, the 6th Edition of Ghana Poultry Day is expected to showcase the vast opportunities within Ghana’s poultry value chain and inspire renewed commitment to building a resilient industry that feeds the nation while creating sustainable economic opportunities for thousands of Ghanaians.

Story by Efua Nessa