By: Joseph Oswald Ali
The Upper West Regional Minister Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing has candidly acknowledged the constraints of his office in tackling the maize surplus plaguing farmers in the Sissala enclave, urging media amplification to attract buyers.
During his maiden press briefing on Thursday, January 15, the minister explained that the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) tasked by the President to purchase excess farm produce has already acquired substantial quantities, yet surpluses persist.
“We don’t have a direct say in the region to direct the purchase of excess maize in the Sissala belt,” He stated.
Highlighting the limited regional authority over national procurement.Puozuing outlined proactive steps since assuming office, focusing on expanding Kedan Limited, a maize mill in Sissala East Municipality, to absorb future gluts.
He revealed that Exim Bank is in the final stages of approving funding for the project. “We’ve reached a final stage where we are waiting for the Exim Bank to approve [funding] for the expansion of Kedan,” he assured.
The minister appealed to journalists to spotlight distressed farmers’ plight, enabling potential buyers to intervene.
“Use your platforms to amplify the voice of most farmers who are in distress so that potential buyers could get to salvage them from their precarious situation,” he urged.
Shifting to infrastructure, Hon. Puozuing reaffirmed the government’s “Big Push” initiative, confirming that all listed road projects in Upper West will commence this month. Work is underway on the Tumu-Navrongo and Han-Tumu roads, while the Wa-Han road contractor mobilizes to site next week.
