Ghana’s dependence on imported poultry products is expected to decline significantly as the government’s Nkoko Nkitinkiti initiative expands, according to the Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo.
He explained that Ghana currently produces only about five to six percent of its national poultry demand, leaving a wide gap that is filled largely through imports.
“We know our consumption patterns, and currently we only produce about five to six percent of what we consume when it comes to poultry products. That is why we launched the Nkoko Nkitinkiti project to ensure there are enough poultry products in the country. Once the programme fully takes off, poultry imports will reduce drastically,” he said.
Mr. Dumelo added that the first phase of poultry distribution under the programme has already been completed successfully, with preparations underway for the rollout of the second phase across the country.
The initiative forms part of government’s broader effort to revive Ghana’s poultry industry, strengthen food security, create jobs, and reduce the country’s import bill.
He made the remarks during the launch of the 6th edition of Ghana Poultry Day, scheduled for July 1, 2026, at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra.
Organized by Agrihouse Foundation, the annual event has become a major platform for stakeholders in the poultry value chain, bringing together farmers, processors, feed producers, financiers, policymakers, and development partners to promote local poultry production and consumption.
This year’s celebration is themed “Stepping Up to Feed Ghana Through Ghana’s Poultry Value Chain,” with a focus on strengthening collaboration across the sector to boost production and improve food security.
Activities planned for the event include stakeholder dialogue sessions, exhibitions, marketplace engagements, media interactions, consumer education campaigns, and business networking opportunities.
A highlight of the celebration will be a chef activation and cooking competition designed to showcase local poultry dishes and encourage greater patronage of Ghanaian chicken.
Organizers say the initiative will help build consumer confidence in locally produced poultry while opening up more market opportunities for farmers and processors.
