The Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness at the Presidency, Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, has dismissed claims that his office is redundant, stating that the Minority is “clearly confused” about the role he plays.
His response follows criticisms that his appointment is unnecessary since there is already a Minister of Agriculture and a Director at the ministry overseeing the sector.
Speaking to ABC News GH at Parliament, he asserted, “Clearly, they are confused because they don’t appreciate that there is an enormous amount of work to be done from the destruction their government has caused.”
Addressing expectations for the agricultural sector, Dr. Otokunor assured farmers that significant transformation is on the way.
“Farmers should expect total transformation of the agro sector,” he stated, emphasizing that the government’s initiatives will introduce impactful reforms to boost agricultural productivity. He also highlighted the pressing issue of illegal mining, or galamsey, which continues to affect the sector.
“The impact of galamsey on agriculture cannot be overemphasized. It is a problem,” he noted, stressing the need for urgent intervention to protect farmlands and water bodies.
Dr. Otokunor further underscored the government’s commitment to fighting corruption, particularly in resource management.
“We believe that the commitment of government to fight corruption is one that is holistic, and everyone, including the President, must commit to it,” he stated.
He pointed out the need for discipline in tackling illegal mining, as the country has already lost precious water resources and other natural endowments due to unregulated activities.
Meanwhile, as Parliament prepared for the 2025 budget presentation, all eyes were on Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who made a striking entrance, ready to deliver the much-anticipated budget statement.
