The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has issued a stern warning to employees within his Ministry, cautioning them against engaging in partisan politics that could undermine the government’s efforts in the sector.

Addressing staff from various directorates during his ongoing tour of departments and agencies, Opoku emphasized the need for collective commitment to national development, regardless of political affiliations.

Speaking on Monday, January 27, 2025, the Minister stressed that nation-building should take precedence over party loyalties.

“The politics is over. You may belong to whichever party, but at the end of the day, we are all working for Ghana. Let’s hang our political jackets and mobilize all that we have,” Opoku stated.

He warned against acts of sabotage, saying: “If you’re still in the political mood and think everything is about politics, then you become an obstacle.

And every obstacle must be cleared. You cannot work against the government just because you do not belong to a certain party. I will not entertain that.”

Opoku’s remarks come at a critical time when Ghana’s agricultural sector faces major challenges that require a unified effort to ensure growth and food security.

As part of his working tour, the minister—accompanied by the Chief Director of the ministry, Paul Siameh—has been engaging with various departments to identify issues affecting staff and explore solutions to enhance productivity.

His first stop was the Plant Protection Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD) in Pokuase, where he stressed the need to boost plant yield and reduce dependence on imported produce like onions and tomatoes.

He also visited the:

Statistics Research and Information Directorate (SRID) Directorate of Agricultural Extension Services (DAES) Human Resource Directorate at Ghana House in Accra

The Minister reaffirmed his dedication to strengthening Ghana’s agricultural sector by fostering a collaborative work environment and ensuring that all employees contribute effectively to the country’s food security and economic growth.