The Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Asunafo South, Hon. Eric Opoku, has dismissed reports suggesting a rift between the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) and the Ministry of Finance, insisting that both institutions are working harmoniously to advance the government’s development agenda.
According to the Minister, recent reports alleging tension between the two ministries over the release of agricultural funds were the result of a misunderstanding which has since been resolved.
Speaking on the matter during a working and familiarization visit to P & A African Food International Ltd in Accra on Friday, June 19, Hon. Eric Opoku stressed that there is “absolute peace” between the two ministries, adding that they remain fully committed to supporting President John Dramani Mahama’s resetting agenda aimed at improving the lives of Ghanaians and transforming the economy.
“There is no disagreement with the Ministry of Finance,” the Minister clarified.
“There was miscommunication and there was the need for us to clarify issues. We clarified them, and we are working together.”
The controversy emerged following conflicting public statements regarding the release of more than GH¢1.6 billion in agricultural funding.
The Ministry of Finance had earlier announced that it had disbursed over GH¢1.6 billion to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, representing about 94 percent of allocations for Goods and Services and 74 percent of Capital Expenditure.
However, MoFA responded by indicating that actual expenditure for the first half of the year had been capped at GH¢910 million, raising concerns over the availability of funds for ongoing agricultural programmes and interventions.
The differing positions sparked speculation about possible friction between the two ministries, but Hon. Eric Opoku explained that the issue stemmed from technical differences in budget interpretation rather than any form of conflict.
According to him, while the Finance Ministry referred to approved commitments and authorisations within the national budget framework, MoFA was focused on the actual cash available for immediate implementation of agricultural projects and programmes across the country.
The Minister noted that after discussions and clarification, both ministries had aligned their understanding and were continuing to collaborate effectively in the national interest.
“There is no way we can disagree in a manner that will hinder the development of our nation. Our major preoccupation is to deliver to the admiration of the good people of our country,” he emphasized.
Hon. Eric Opoku further accused sections of the media of sensationalising the issue and creating unnecessary public anxiety through negative reportage.
He urged journalists and media houses to exercise caution and professionalism in their reportage, particularly on matters that concern national development and governance.
The Minister reiterated government’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector through increased investment, strategic collaboration, and policies that will enhance food production, create jobs, and ensure food security across the country.
He assured farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural value chain that the government remains focused on implementing programmes that will improve productivity and support economic growth.
By 1960news.com
