Government rolls out Nkoko Nkitinkiti policy to benefit 200 households in Techiman

The Government of Ghana has begun the implementation of the Nkoko Nkitinkiti policy in the Techiman Municipality of the Bono East Region, targeting 200 households under a backyard poultry initiative to enhance livelihoods and improve food security.

Speaking in an interview with the Information Services Department in Techiman, the Director of Agricultural Services at the Municipal Directorate of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Mr. Stephen Edu, stated that government is fully committed to executing all three phases of the programme to ensure its success and sustainability.

He indicated that the first phase, which focuses on backyard poultry production, has already been completed successfully with the distribution of 10,000 birds to selected beneficiary households. Mr. Edu encouraged recipients to manage the birds responsibly to maximize output and increase household income.

According to him, the remaining two phases of the initiative will soon be rolled out in batches by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to expand support to more beneficiaries.

The Municipal Veterinary Officer, Dr. Ruth Opoku, advised participants to adopt proper poultry management practices, including good feeding, vaccination, and housing, to minimize mortality and sustain the project.

Mr. Osman Mustapha, the Municipal Livestock Officer, also raised concerns about the inadequate skills of some beneficiaries in handling and transporting the birds. He cautioned that improper handling could lead to unnecessary losses and defeat the purpose of the intervention.

The Nkoko Nkitinkiti policy is designed to promote local poultry production, strengthen household incomes, and contribute to improved food security within the municipality, particularly among women and youth.