Government to launch ‘Nkukor Nkitinkiti’ programme in October

The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to roll out the much-anticipated ‘Nkukor Nkitinkiti’ (Day-old chicks) programme by the first week of October.

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the ECOWAS Regional Trade in Livestock on September 9, the Minister disclosed that procurement processes are underway to engage contractors for the distribution of day-old chicks to beneficiary households.

The ‘Nkukor Nkitinkiti’ initiative, first proposed by former President John Dramani Mahama ahead of the 2024 general elections, is designed as a major poverty alleviation programme targeting households interested in poultry farming.

Under the scheme, beneficiaries will receive day-old chicks after the construction of mini hencoops to accommodate them. The government will also provide support in the form of feed and veterinary services, with the expectation that proceeds from poultry sales will help households meet their financial needs.

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Despite its promise, the programme has faced public criticism, with some Ghanaians accusing the government of failing to deliver on its earlier commitments.

However, Minister Eric Opoku maintains that the initiative remains a top priority.

“We are hoping to see the programme launched by the end of this month or in the first week of October. His Excellency, the President, will officially launch it, and distribution will begin in the various constituencies for the beneficiary farmers,” he stated.

The Minister added that final beneficiary lists are being compiled, while procurement processes to secure reliable contractors are nearing completion.

“We are now putting the list together, and we are going through procurement to engage contractors to supply us with the best. So, very soon, it will be launched,” he emphasised.

The rollout of the ‘Nkukor Nkitinkiti’ programme is expected to boost poultry production at the household level, enhance food security, and create an additional source of income for families across the country.