Government has confirmed that the long-awaited Nkoko Nkitinkiti Programme will be launched in the first week of October 2025, following months of consultations with poultry industry players.
The initiative, being rolled out by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, is designed to revive the local poultry sector, reduce Ghana’s dependence on imported chicken, and save the nation more than $300 million annually.
Originally scheduled for July, the launch was postponed after farmer associations and stakeholders raised concerns about limited engagement in the design of the programme. Officials say those concerns have since been addressed through additional consultations.
Announcing the new date in Accra after the launch of the second phase of the West Africa Livestock Marketing Programme (PACBAO), Agriculture Minister Eric Opoku assured poultry farmers of government’s readiness.
“Plans are at an advanced stage, and it is expected that by the first week of October, His Excellency the President will officially launch the programme. The media will be invited, after which distribution will begin across various constituencies to reach beneficiary farmers. We are finalizing the beneficiary list and completing procurement processes with contractors to supply the birds. Very soon, implementation will take off,” he stated.
The Nkoko Nkitinkiti Programme is expected to reach at least 55,000 households nationwide, creating thousands of new jobs for young people and empowering rural communities.
Farmers will be supported with chicks, feed, veterinary services, and access to structured markets.
Officials describe the scheme as part of Ghana’s wider food security and import substitution strategy.
Stakeholder groups, including the Ghana National Association of Poultry Farmers, say they are cautiously optimistic about the revised approach.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
