Every bowl of rice on a Ghanaian table tells the story of countless hours of backbreaking work by farmers across the country. From the flooded valleys of the north to the lowlands of the Volta Region, rice has become a lifeline for millions. Yet far too much of this effort goes to waste.
After the planting and weeding, after fighting off pests and unpredictable rains, farmers often lose large portions of their harvest—not in the field, but after it has already been gathered. Poor drying methods, lack of proper storage, and limited access to modern equipment mean that bags of rice spoil before reaching the market. The result? Lost income for farmers and continued dependence on imported rice.
Women, who carry much of the burden of drying, parboiling, milling, and selling rice, are the hardest hit. While men may prepare the land, women are left to manage the grain once it is harvested. Their role is crucial, but often undervalued and unsupported.
The good news is that the solutions are not out of reach. Using certified seeds suited to Ghana’s soils, drying rice properly to safe moisture levels, and expanding access to simple mechanization can make a real difference. Climate-smart varieties are already helping farmers cope with floods and droughts, and investing in training—especially for women—could turn these fragile losses into opportunities.
Ghana spends huge sums importing rice every year. Imagine what could be achieved if even half of the grain lost after harvest were saved and sold locally. Farmers would earn more. Women would have stronger businesses. Families would enjoy safer, higher-quality rice grown right here at home.
The message is clear: growing more rice is not enough—keeping it safe after harvest is the real game changer.
resource material: https://farmradio.org/radio-resources
