The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Upper West Akim, Hon. Rebecca Chissah, has inspected the arrival of a fresh consignment of poultry under the government’s “Nkoko Nkitinkiti” initiative, describing it as a major intervention to strengthen domestic poultry production and reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported chicken products.
Hon. Chissah made the remarks during a visit to farms where the birds are currently being housed and monitored. She expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for ensuring that Upper West Akim benefits from the programme.
“Thanks go to President John Dramani Mahama. The conditions of the chickens are good. Veterinary officers are checking them and they have confirmed to us that their condition is stable,” she stated.
According to the DCE, the poultry consignment arrived in the district on February 4, after which officials and veterinary personnel were deployed to inspect the birds and assess the readiness of beneficiary farms ahead of distribution.
“It is good news that we in Upper West Akim have received our share of the national cake. In a few weeks to come, we will start distribution of the chickens,” she added.
Hon. Chissah explained that the initiative is part of a broader national strategy to cut down on poultry imports and empower local farmers to produce competitively.
“The President’s idea is to cut down on importation and help us grow these chickens here domestically,” she emphasized.
About the Nkoko Nkitinkiti Initiative
The “Nkoko Nkitinkiti” programme is a key government intervention aimed at reviving Ghana’s poultry industry, improving food security and creating employment opportunities, particularly in rural communities.
Ghana continues to import a significant percentage of its poultry needs annually, mainly in the form of frozen chicken, a situation that places pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
The initiative seeks to support local poultry farmers—especially smallholder and community-based producers—through the supply of quality chicks, feed support, veterinary services, and technical training to boost productivity and sustainability.
Industry observers have repeatedly noted that Ghana has the capacity to meet a greater share of its local poultry demand if farmers are given the needed support, including access to improved breeds, affordable feed, and reliable veterinary care.
With veterinary officers confirming the stable condition of the birds in Upper West Akim, district authorities say all necessary preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and transparent distribution process in the coming weeks.
The programme is expected to enhance livelihoods for farmers in the district while contributing significantly to national efforts to build a more self-reliant and resilient poultry sector.
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku