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The Ghana National Association of Pig Farmers (GNAPF) has announced a minimum price of GHS 30 per kilogram for live pigs, a move aimed at sustaining the profitability of pig farming in the country. This directive was officially disclosed during a press conference held in Kumasi today, where the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Association, Mr. Daniel Yaw Sem, addressed the media.
Speaking to journalists, Mr. Sem highlighted the critical need for the pricing policy, urging butchers and other stakeholders in the pig meat value chain to comply with the new standard.
“Last year, the price per kilogram was set at GHS 30. However, due to the escalating costs of production inputs, we are reaffirming this price as the minimum for the current year. Any farmer who sells below this price will face sanctions,” Mr. Sem stated emphatically.
He further appealed to pig farmers to adhere strictly to the association’s guidelines to promote fairness and unity within the industry.
Challenges of Rising Production Costs
The Ashanti Regional Chairman shed light on the challenges confronting pig farmers, particularly the surging prices of feed ingredients such as maize, wheat bran, and imported supplements. These challenges, he explained, have significantly increased the cost of production, threatening the survival of pig farming businesses across the country.
“The pig farming business demands huge investments, especially in feeding the animals. The increasing cost of pig feed is collapsing our businesses, and we are struggling to keep up,” Mr. Sem lamented.
Call for Government Intervention
Mr. Sem called on the government to intervene by subsidizing the prices of pig feed to alleviate the financial burden on farmers. He argued that such support would not only ensure the livelihoods of pig farmers but also stabilize the supply of pork for local consumption and export markets.
“We need urgent intervention to sustain this sector. A subsidy on feed prices will help us remain in business and contribute meaningfully to the local economy,” he added.
Collaboration for Industry Growth
The Association also appealed to butchers, traders, and government agencies to support efforts aimed at revitalizing the pig farming industry. According to Mr. Sem, implementing the pricing policy effectively requires collaboration and mutual respect among all stakeholders.
The Ghana National Association of Pig Farmers has pledged its commitment to ensuring the growth and sustainability of the pig farming sector while addressing the concerns of its members.
With the minimum price of GHS 30 per kilogram now in effect, the Association is optimistic that this will stabilize the market and safeguard the interests of farmers, traders, and consumers alike.
Farmers and butchers are encouraged to abide by the directive to foster a thriving and equitable pig farming industry in Ghana.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie
