The Ashanti Regional Directorate of Agriculture has received 250,083-day-old chicks for distribution under the government’s Nkoko Nketenkete programme, comprising 137,788 broilers and 112,295 layers.
The region also received 5,581 bags of chick mash for anchor farmers to brood the chicks for four weeks before giving them to beneficiaries.
Dr David Anambam, Ashanti Regional Director of Agriculture, said 200 farmers have received 50 chicks each with two bags of mash, and distribution through Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) will expand to more beneficiaries.
Layers are expected to start laying by April, and broilers will be ready for consumption at eight weeks, promoting household nutrition and reducing reliance on imported frozen chicken, which accounts for 80–95% of Ghana’s poultry consumption.
He added that veterinary services in 2026 will focus on safeguarding animal health, livestock productivity, meat inspection, hygiene, and consumer safety, ensuring Nkoko Nketenkete birds are well cared for while strengthening local poultry production and public health.
By Florence Afriyie Mensah