Ghana’s government will establish agro-processing facilities across the country to provide ready markets for farmers. This initiative aims to increase food production, create jobs, and strengthen nationwide food security by linking farmers directly to industries.
Eric Opoku, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, outlined these plans on Thursday, July 9, to Parliament’s Assurance Committee. The initiative falls under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government's flagship 'Feed Ghana' program, which includes a sub-program called 'Feed the Industry'. This strategy aims to ensure agricultural production meets existing industrial demand, reducing risks for farmers.
This push for agro-processing aligns with Ghana’s broader economic strategy to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on raw material exports. The focus on value addition in agriculture is crucial for creating more robust supply chains and increasing earnings from agricultural products. Data has shown that value-added agricultural practices can significantly boost Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contributions from the sector.
Minister Opoku cited the NDC Manifesto, stating, “In the NDC Manifesto, we made a firm promise to introduce a programme called Feed Ghana, and then under that programme, we have a sub-programme called Feed the Industry.” He added that these together should lead to increased food production, job creation, and food security for the nation.
The government's focus on connecting farmers directly to industrial demand is designed to transform agriculture from subsistence farming into a commercial enterprise. The poultry sector is the first beneficiary, with the 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' program distributing day-old chicks and other inputs to farmers. A poultry processing center in Bechem is now almost 50% complete and will be operational by December, providing a guaranteed market for poultry farmers.
Beyond poultry, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture is partnering with private investors to establish other key processing plants. A soy processing plant in Tamale is underway, with procurement for equipment already advertised. This plant will implement a buy-back arrangement with soybean farmers. Additionally, a private entity is establishing a sorghum processing plant in the northern region, seeking government involvement for faster operationalization.
Minister Opoku revealed that the ministry has organized approximately 73,000 commodity-based cooperatives across the country. These cooperatives will facilitate partnerships between farmers and processing companies, ensuring a steady supply of raw materials. Furthermore, investors from China and India have expressed interest in maize processing for export, leading to plans for five maize processing plants in major maize-producing districts.
The integrated approach aims to unlock opportunities along the agricultural value chain. Studies indicate that one job in primary agriculture can create three to four additional jobs in the processing sector. This expansion of the processing capacity will significantly boost employment across rural and peri-urban areas. The government expects these initiatives to reposition agriculture as a commercially viable sector, generating wealth and sustainable employment opportunities for Ghanaians.