Accra: The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has contributed 30 motorbikes to Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) to bolster rice production initiatives. This donation aims to enhance the mobility and efficiency of Agricultural Extension Agents (AEAs) involved in the Ghana Rice Production Improvement Project (GRIP).

According to Ghana News Agency, the motorbikes are part of a collaborative effort between JICA and MoFA to boost domestic rice production and strengthen national food security. Ms. Suzuki Momoko, Chief Representative of the JICA Ghana Office, highlighted JICA’s enduring dedication to Ghana’s agricultural sector, particularly in rice cultivation. “For more than 20 years, JICA has supported rice production in Ghana. These motorbikes will help extension agents reach farmers in remote and rural areas, ensuring timely technical advice and improved farming practices,” she stated.

The newly acquired motorbikes will be distributed to AEAs working in significant rice-growing areas, including the rain-fed ecologies of Bono East, Eastern, Oti, and Western North regions, as well as major irrigation schemes at Kpong, Bontanga, Tono, and Weta. Mr. John Dumelo, Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, accepted the motorbikes on behalf of the government and expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their ongoing support.

“This donation is timely and strategic, especially for our ‘Feed Ghana Programme’, which depends heavily on the reach and effectiveness of agricultural extension services. With improved mobility, our officers can provide real-time support to farmers, monitor field activities closely, and offer solutions on the ground,” Mr. Dumelo remarked.

He further emphasized the government’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and capacity building to achieve rice self-sufficiency and improve livelihoods in the agricultural sector. Mr. Dumelo assured JICA that the motorbikes would be used transparently and effectively, focusing on delivering measurable impacts in the target communities.

The GRIP initiative aims to enhance productivity and profitability among rice farmers by providing improved technical assistance, infrastructure, and access to modern farming practices.