Tumu: The Tumu Traditional Council, in collaboration with other Traditional Councils in the Sissala area, has announced a new minimum price for maize to protect the livelihoods of local farmers.
According to Ghana News Agency, the decision follows numerous complaints from major maize farmers about a significant drop in market prices that threatened their economic stability. A statement by Kuoro Richard Babini Kanton VI, President of the Tumu Traditional Council, noted that maize prices had fallen from GHC 550 to as low as GHC 400 per 100kg bag in recent weeks. This decrease has made it difficult for farmers to cover production costs, risking farm abandonment.
The statement highlighted that the price drop is unsustainable for farmers and compromises their ability to sustain operations. Consultations with major buyers, including the West African Regional Company (WARC), led to a new minimum price set at GHc 500 per 100kg bag, effective July 8, 2025. Farmers are urged not to sell below this price to ensure stability and sustainability in agricultural production.
The directive aims to address concerns that unchecked price declines could force farmers to abandon maize farming, which is crucial for the local economy. The statement calls on stakeholders, including buyers, farmers, and government authorities, to support efforts to protect this vital agricultural hub in Ghana.
Mr. Mahamud Aduna, President of the Sissala Union and a commercial maize farmer, explained that many producers face pricing challenges due to market manipulation by middlemen. He estimated that the Sissala area produces more than half of Ghana's maize requirements, urging the government to implement initiatives to enhance production and provide necessary infrastructure.
Alhaji Kasim Buwale of the Sissala area farmers' Association expressed concerns over unsold maize stocks, emphasizing that current market prices would erode production capital. He assured that with proper support, the Sissala area could meet national maize demands.
