Tanokrom, Bono East Region – In a major push to revitalize Ghana’s agricultural sector, the Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. John Matthew Kofi Setor Dumelo, has officially launched the government’s flagship *Akoko Nkitinkiti* Poultry Initiative in the Techiman North District.
The launch ceremony, held on Friday, 13th February 2026, at Tanokrom, attracted a wide array of stakeholders including local farmers, traditional leaders, assembly members, agricultural extension officers, and women groups. The event is part of a broader nationwide rollout aimed at transforming the poultry industry.
Under the national programme, a total of 48,803 chicks have been procured for distribution across the country. The Techiman North District received a significant portion of this allocation, securing 10,000 chicks to support beneficiaries within the district and its surrounding communities.
Delivering his keynote address, Hon. Dumelo emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing Ghana’s reliance on imported poultry products.
“This initiative is not just about distributing birds; it is about creating a sustainable economic ecosystem,” Hon. Dumelo stated. “We are focused on boosting local production for domestic consumption and positioning Ghana as a key player in agricultural export.”
He highlighted that the *Akoko Nkitinkiti* programme is expected to be a major source of employment, particularly for the youth and women, while stimulating growth in the wider agribusiness value chain. He urged beneficiaries to manage the birds responsibly to ensure high survival rates and achieve the programme’s objectives of productivity and food security.
The Bono East Regional Minister, Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, lauded the Deputy Minister for selecting the region for the launch. He noted that the initiative aligns perfectly with the region’s agricultural goals, particularly the need to develop buffer stocks.
“Strengthening local production through programmes like Akoko Nkitinkiti allows us to build buffer stocks that stabilise market prices and ensure a steady supply of poultry products, even during periods of high demand,” Hon. Owusu Antwi explained.
He also used the occasion to address regional security concerns, calling for structured management of livestock to prevent conflicts between herdsmen and crop farmers.
In a move that took many attendees by surprise, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Techiman North, Hon. Johnson Kwabena Adom, announced an additional allocation of 10,000 chickens to the district. This brings the total number of birds designated for the area to 20,000, significantly amplifying the potential for employment and income generation.
“We are fully committed to the success of this programme,” Hon. Adom assured the Ministry. “The Assembly will ensure a transparent selection of beneficiaries, provide the necessary logistical support for distribution, and work hand-in-hand with extension officers to monitor implementation and ensure proper management.”
Under the *Akoko Nkitinkiti* Poultry Initiative, selected beneficiaries will receive:
– Day-old chicks
– Starter feed and other essential inputs
– Access to veterinary and extension services
– Continuous monitoring and supervision to ensure best practices.
The launch at Tanokrom marks a significant milestone for agricultural development in the Techiman North District and the Bono East Region. With a combined total of 20,000 chicks now allocated to the area, the programme is poised to create jobs, empower local communities, and make a substantial contribution to Ghana’s food security and export potential.
