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FAO Statistical Yearbook 2024 reveals critical insights on the sustainability of global agriculture, food security, and the importance of agrifood systems in employment

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The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) today launched its 2024 Statistical Yearbook, offering an in-depth overview of the most significant trends shaping global agrifood systems. This year’s edition highlights critical challenges, including increased temperatures over land, the ongoing global struggle with food insecurity alongside increasing obesity rates, and the environmental pressures faced by agricultural production.

Drawing on a wealth of data collected by FAO statisticians, the publication synthesizes the key factors influencing global agrifood systems. The 2024 edition is structured into four thematic chapters covering: the economic dimensions of agriculture; the production, trade, and prices of commodities; food security and nutrition; and sustainability and environmental aspects of agriculture.

“Timely, accurate and high-quality data and statistics are the cornerstone of solid policy design,” said José Rosero Moncayo, FAO Chief Statistician and Director of the Statistics Division. “This edition of the FAO Statistical Yearbook presents newly released country-level estimates on employment in agrifood systems as a sign of the transition of FAO statistics to consistently inform about the state of agrifood systems in the world. It also features a new dataset on dietary-related data, which is an important achievement to understand what people eat and how this affects nutritional outcomes.”

Key highlights:

• Global agricultural value has increased by 89 percent in real terms over the past two decades, reaching $3.8 trillion in 2022. Despite this growth, agriculture’s contribution to global economic output has remained relatively stable, and the proportion of the global workforce employed in agriculture has decreased, from 40 percent in 2000 to 26 percent in 2022.

• Food production has continued to rise, but hunger remains a persistent issue. In 2023, between 713 and 757 million people were undernourished. Considering the mid-range (733 million), this is about 152 million more people than in 2019. The majority of the undernourished people lives in Asia, even though the prevalence of undernourishment is highest in Africa.

• Obesity rates are also rising, particularly in high-income regions. Over 25 percent of adults in the Americas, Europe and Oceania are obese, reflecting the global challenge of ensuring access to healthy, nutritious food.

• The global production of primary crops reached 9.6 billion tonnes in 2022, an increase of 56 percent compared to 2000Staple crops such as sugar cane, maize, wheat and rice together account for nearly half of global crop production.

• Meat production increased by 55 percent from 2000 to 2022, with chicken accounting for the largest share of this rise. In 2022, 361 million tonnes of meat were produced globally, with chicken surpassing pork as the most produced meat.

• The use of pesticides increased by 70 percent between 2000 and 2022, with the Americas accounting for half of the global pesticide use in 2022.

• Inorganic fertilizers used in agriculture reached 185 million tonnes of nutrients in 2022, with 58 percent of this amount being nitrogen. This represents an increase of 37 percent compared with 2000.

• The production of vegetable oils grew by 133 percent between 2000 and 2021, largely driven by an increase in palm oil production.

• Greenhouse gas emissions from agrifood systems have risen by 10 percent between 2000 and 2022. Farm-gate emissions increased by 15 percent over the same period, with livestock contributing to around 54 percent of these emissions.

• Water scarcity remains a growing concern in regions such as the Near East and North Africa, where many countries face extreme water stress, impacting the sustainability of agricultural production. Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are withdrawing each year 9 to almost 40 times their renewable freshwater resources available.

The 2024 Statistical Yearbook is also available in a digital, interactive format  and comes with a companion pocketbook, offering a clear reference to key data on agriculture, food security, and sustainability. It is part of FAO’s ongoing effort to improve data accessibility, complementing the FAOSTAT platform, which hosts the world’s largest collection of free agricultural statistics, covering over 245 countries and territories.

The Statistical Yearbook serves as a vital resource for policymakers, researchers, analysts, and anyone interested in understanding the current state and future trajectory of global food and agriculture.

The 2024 Statistical Yearbook is being launched on African Statistics Day. The day was first adopted in 1990 at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa Conference of African Ministers for Planning and Economic Development and is celebrated each year on 18 November.

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Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana urges government to review US$64m cost and location of grain Silo Project

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Farmer Anthony Morrison, the CEO of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana.

The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana has urged the government of Ghana to reconsider the silo project and engage stakeholders in a comprehensive review of the project’s cost, location, and design, as they believe that a more inclusive and sustainable approach to agricultural development will better serve Ghana’s food security needs.

The Chamber made this declaration in a statement dated November 17, 2024, and signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana, Anthony Kofituo Morrison.

The Chief Executive Officer stated that the Chamber expressed disagreement with the government’s plan to construct a 60,000-tonne grain silo, as was announced by Agriculture Minister, Hon. Bryan Acheampong.

“While we appreciate the government’s efforts to address food security concerns, we believe that the project’s cost and location require urgent review. The Chamber is very concerned with the project cost, the $64 million price tag, considering the current economic climate and competing priorities for agricultural development. This amount could be re-aligned to allocate a portion to support farmers, improve irrigation systems, deploy post-harvest infrastructures, and enhance agricultural research”. Anthony Morrison said.

The Chamber’s research indicated that regions, such as the Brong-Ahafo, Ashanti, Volta, and Upper West Regions, are the primary hubs for maize and rice production.

” Investing in grain silos in these regions would yield greater economic benefits and have a more significant impact on the country’s food security”, Anthony Morrison stated highlighting that the current project’s location and a strategic reserve of this nature require careful consideration of accessibility, storage facilities, and transportation networks.

“We fear that a poorly chosen location could lead to inefficiencies and increased costs”. The Chamber Outlaid their fears.

The Chamber reiterated that analysis also reveals that the Eastern Region, particularly Kwahu is not a major grain-producing area in Ghana.

The region’s agricultural production primarily focuses on fruits, vegetables, cocoa, roots, and tubers rather than grains.

Expert’s research findings indicated that “Investing in grain storage infrastructure is crucial, but location and cost are critical factors to consider”.

Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana further gave some statistics on grain production in Ghana, highlighting that in 2023, Ghana produced 3.7 million tons of maize and the major producing regions were Brong-Ahafo (30%), Ashanti (20%), and Upper West (15%) and Average yield was 1.5-2.5 tons/ha.

On Rice Production in Ghana, 1.9 million tons of rice was produced in 2023, and the major producing regions were Volta (60%), Northern (20%), and Upper West (10%) and the Average yield was 2-3 tons/ha.

“As a Policy, technical, and trade advisory Chamber, we recommend exploring re-aligned solutions with strategic prioritization for utmost impact, instead of investing in a single, large-scale silo”. The Chamber highlighted.

The Chamber further reiterated that there are several experts and research findings out there that show that “Investing in grain storage infrastructure is crucial, but location, capacity, and cost are critical factors to consider.”

The decentralization of storage facilities across major production zones, Smaller, community-based storage units that reduce transportation costs and increase accessibility.

“Public-private partnerships and strategic collaborations that leverage private sector expertise and funding to improve agricultural infrastructure”. The CEO said.

The Chamber thereby urged the government to construct silos in major grain-producing regions, and also invest in irrigation infrastructure to increase grain production.

Also, the Government must enhance farmer capacity building and extension services.

The Chamber while proposing the above recommendations also emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement in providing critical support for government initiatives.

A study by major Agriculture research organizations found that investing in grain storage infrastructure in major producing regions can reduce post-harvest losses by up to 30%.

The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana believes that a more strategic approach to this project will ensure that Ghana’s agricultural sector receives the support it needs to thrive.

Again, the Chamber calls on the government to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to determine the most suitable location for the grain silos.

Also, engage stakeholders, including farmers, traders, and agribusinesses, to ensure that the project aligns with the needs of the industry.

The government must explore public-private partnerships to reduce the financial burden and also prioritize investments in regions with high grain production potential.

The Chamber was alarmed that in 2022, Ghana’s rice imports were valued at $560 million, with major sources being Vietnam, Thailand, India, China, and Pakistan.

They gave the breakdown of Rice Import, stating that Ghana imported $349 million from Vietnam, $53.3 million from Thailand, $50.9 million from India, and China, and $21.7 million and $21.2 million from Pakistan.

The Chamber further indicated that Ghana imported 1.3 million tons of paddy rice in 2020, compared to 1 million tons produced locally.
The country spends between $300 million and $500 million annually on rice imports.

Ghana’s maize imports have varied over the years. In 2023, the country imported $13.4 million worth of maize, with the top trading partners being Argentina (58%), South Africa (19.1%), Brazil (8.7%), USA (6.83%), and India (3.82%).

Interestingly, Ghana also exports maize, albeit in smaller quantities. In 2023, the country exported $987,699 worth of maize, with Malawi being the largest recipient (96% of total exports)

The Chamber again gave the breakdown of Ghana’s maize imports, by country of origin, stating that the country imports 58% of maize, worth $7.8 million, from Argentina, South Africa 19.1% ($2.57 million), Brazil 8.7% ($1.16 million), USA 6.83% ($915 thousand) and India 3.82% ($512 thousand)

Additionally, Ghana’s maize imports have fluctuated over the years, with significant increases in 2012 ($37.8 million) and 2018 ($22.8 million).

The Chamber believes that a more strategic approach to this project will ensure that Ghana’s agricultural sector receives the support it needs to thrive.

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The Tree Crop Diversification Project is vital for Ghana’s economic growth

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The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has said that Ghana’s Tree Crop Sector is vital to agriculture and the economy growth, affirming that the sector is generating income of over 1.6 million farming households, including commercial producers beyond cocoa.

He stated that the sector offers significant opportunities for economic diversification, job creation, poverty reduction, food security, foreign exchange earnings, and a substantial contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The Minister made this revelation during the launch of the Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project on November 14, 2024, at Kempinski Hotel, Accra.

The Minister of Food and Agriculture, who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Abetifi Constituency, Dr. Bryan Acheampong indicated that despite Ghana having ample arable land for cocoa production, it faces significant threats from deforestation, climate change, and other environmental issues, leading to a marked decline in suitable land.

“The sector also confronts challenges, primarily low productivity despite increased output. Poor coordination, limited technical capacity, and insufficient negotiating power hinder farmers’ effectiveness.

Additionally, awareness and adoption of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) among producers remain low”.

“There is growing concern over widespread child labor in cocoa and other agricultural sectors, although Ghana has enacted comprehensive child labor laws and made notable progress in reducing this issue,” Bryan Acheampong added.

He stated that to enhance tree crop development, the Government of Ghana will promote a dual strategy, focusing on cocoa and other strategic tree crops.

For the Cocoa Sector, the Minister said that the Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has implemented its second Cocoa Sector Development Strategy (CSDS-II) for 2017-2027.

This new strategy will address the shortcomings of the first strategy, which primarily aimed at increasing productivity but failed to adequately tackle Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD) and lacked management information systems.

He affirmed the CSDS-II focus, hammering on modernizing the industry to improve competitiveness and resilience, with interventions aimed at enhancing productivity, efficiency, innovation, and quality management, along with traceability and certification.

He again indicated the plan for the other Tree Crops, stating that in 2019, the Government established the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), which launched a five-year development strategy in 2022 targeting six priority crops: cashew, shea, mango, coconut, rubber, and oil palm.

This strategy aims to regulate and sustainably develop the production, processing, and trade of these tree crops and is articulated around four key strategic and operational areas: research support, production and value chain support including commercialization, capacity building, and licensing and regulation.He affirmed the government’s commitment to the project, stating that the Government of Ghana has secured a $200 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group (WBG) to finance a six-year initiative called the “Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project (TCDP).”

The Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project (GTCDP) is managed by the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) under the supervision of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA).

The Minister of Food and Agriculture highlighted the objectives of the project, affirming that it will support sector-wide activities, reforms, and investments in priority agro-ecological areas to maximize effectiveness.

The project will enhance the national institutional framework and governance of the tree crops sector for sustainable economic, social, and environmental outcomes.

Additionally, it will promote inclusivity by improving governance and management within the sector, with a focus on women and youth, while strengthening the capacity of key institutions.

“Leverage existing national institutions—such as MOFA, COCOBOD, TCDA, National Agriculture Research Institutions (NARIs), Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), and Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)—to scale up ongoing initiatives in tree crop development,” Bryan Acheampong indicated.

Speaking on the beneficiaries of the project, the Minister of Food and Agriculture said the project will directly benefit cocoa, cashew, coconut, and rubber farmers, improving productivity and incomes for 52,775 farmers and their households.

“Approximately 40% of these beneficiaries will be women, located across 11 districts in six regions: Western North, Eastern, Savanna, Bono, Bono East, and Eastern”. He added.

Additionally, the project will support five to ten input suppliers and ten nurseries. Through matching grants, technical assistance, and improved access to markets, an estimated 185 small and medium-sized enterprises involved in processing cocoa, cashews, and coconuts will also benefit.

Indirectly, local communities and cooperatives will gain from enhanced institutional capacity, including better levy collection by TCDA and capacity building by COCOBOD, which will lead to improved research and development, child labor safeguards, and expanded market services.

The project is expected to create around 20,000 jobs at an investment of $4,200 per job, with a significant focus on employing women (60%) and engaging youth.

This initiative has the potential to transform the cocoa, cashew, coconut, and rubber value chains by connecting downstream and upstream actors.

Echoing the sentiment of the Minister of Food and Agriculture was the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Tree Crops Development Authority, William Agyapong Quaittoo. The CEO also said that the tree-crop sector holds significant potential for economic diversification and sustainable transformation.

He indicated that historically, cocoa has been the major cash crop and a vital source of foreign exchange for Ghana for over a century.

However, the sector faces systemic challenges such as low productivity, poor quality of produce, price volatility, limited access to finance and markets, and an inadequate regulatory environment, all of which hinder competitiveness and sustainability.

He stated that despite these challenges, Ghana’s tree crops sector has considerable opportunities for growth and increased export revenue. To capitalize on this potential, the Government of Ghana established the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) through Parliamentary Act 1010 in 2019.

“The TCDA is tasked with regulating and promoting sustainable production, processing, and trading of tree crops. Its aim is to create a highly developed, diversified, value-added, and globally competitive tree crops industry in Ghana. The priority crops outlined in Act 1010 include cashew, coconut, mango, oil palm, rubber, and shea,” the CEO said.

He noted that the Tree Crops Development Authority, as a regulatory body operating in a dynamic environment, has developed a five-year strategy and implementation plan (2022-2027) to address emerging challenges.

The plan emphasizes mobilizing resources through strategic partnerships with both the public and private sectors, as well as Ghana’s development partners, to strengthen the tree crop sector.

The strategy establishes a framework for transforming the tree crops industry, aligning with Ghana’s goal of inclusive economic growth.

He said that the strategy specifically focuses on promoting a sustainable supply chain through demand-driven research and development, value chain support, institutional capacity building to create sustainable systems, and an enabling policy and regulatory environment to attract private sector investment.

The Country Director, World Bank, Mr. Robert Taliercio O’Brien, also at the launch, stated that the project, co-designed by the Government of Ghana and the World Bank, focuses on diversification into tree crops with much emphasis on productivity and market access improvements; enhancement of private sector competitiveness in value addition and processing based on commodity market demand; as well as institutional strengthening and value chain governance, sustainable intensification approaches and planning; market scoping to identify buyers of certified cocoa; preparation of market contracting; assessment of private investment in post-harvest processes and infrastructure for value addition; and identification of financing mechanisms.

He said, “Through this project, the World Bank, with a US$200 million credit facility from the International Development Association (IDA), will support key value chains such as cocoa, cashew, coconut, and rubber, by providing critical resources, knowledge, and expertise.”

“These interventions aim to support the Government of Ghana’s efforts to diversify and grow the economy by modernizing agriculture, accelerating industrialization, and prioritizing climate resilience and mitigation.

They align with the objectives of the National Medium-Term Development Policy Framework (2022–2025) and the “Ghana Beyond Aid” reform agenda (2019–2028),” Mr. Robert Taliercio O’Brien said.

“The World Bank is proud to be a partner in this important initiative. Our long-standing commitment to Ghana’s development, particularly in the agricultural sector, aligns perfectly with the objectives of the GTCDP,” the Country Director highlighted.

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22,000 bags of expired rice allegedly distributed to SHSs across Ghana – Ablakwa

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The Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has alleged that a total of 22,000 bags of expired and repackaged rice were distributed to various Senior High Schools (SHSs) across the country.

He claimed that the consignment was distributed through the Free Senior High School Secretariat in February this year.

The MP, who also serves as the head of the Assurances Committee in Parliament, said in his personal investigation into the matter, after receiving a tip-off, the action was deliberately carried out.

According to him, “The National Food Buffer Stock Company clearly conspired with a company known as Lamens Investments Africa Limited. They used the Buffer Stock storage facility in Kumasi, in the Ashanti region, to repackage expired rice. This company brought in rice from India, the brand ‘Moshosho rice’, which expired in December 2023. Upon realising the rice had expired, they conspired with the Buffer Stock company to use their premises for re-bagging.”

He explained that the rice was repackaged into locally made sacks, “with inscription ‘ECOWAS’, ‘Made in Ghana rice’, but without an expiry date.”

Mr Okudzeto made these statements during an interview on Joy FM’s Midday News on Thursday, 14th November.

He also revealed that the Ashanti Regional Police Command and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in the region, upon receiving a tip-off, intercepted the food for investigation. However, it was later released for onward distribution.

“Can you believe that, before the test results arrived from the FDA in Accra on 6th February, an instruction came from above that the expired, contaminated rice should be distributed to the schools? So, as we speak, all 22,000 bags of rice that the police sought to confiscate have been sent to the schools,” he said.

The MP further alleged that approximately “10,000 bags were kept in a bonded warehouse in Tema, known as Lynbrok.”

According to the MP, after the exposure of the case, an investigation was launched but was later abandoned when the said company offered to pay compensation of GH₵100,000.

He said, “There ought to be prosecution. The company has admitted to their wrongdoing and agreed to pay a fine of GH₵100,000 after jeopardising the health of thousands of Ghanaian students.”

He added that the company had not paid the full fine and could not be traced. “Even the fine – they have only paid half of it, and they can’t be located to pay the remainder,” he claimed.

The rice, according to the FDA’s results, was “so contaminated, it had insects and a very high acidity level. Medical doctors who have seen the FDA results say that this rice should have been destroyed.” the MP said.

The MP is therefore calling for a full investigation into the matter and for the perpetrators to be brought to justice

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YEA partners with Fisheries Commission and military to train youth in fish farming

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The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Fisheries Commission and Ghana’s 66 Artillery Regiment to launch a youth training program focused on fish farming.

This partnership aims to equip young Ghanaians with valuable aquaculture skills, contributing to economic growth and employment.

Speaking at the signing event, YEA CEO Kofi Baah Agyepong emphasized the agency’s dedication to job creation and skill development.

“This MoU represents our shared commitment to create jobs through innovative ideas in a booming market,” he stated.

“The fundamental mandate of the YEA is to create jobs, and we continue to achieve this across diverse sectors.”

The YEA will fund the training, aiming to enrol 1,000 youth in the initial phase, with each participant receiving a monthly stipend of GH¢500 for basic living expenses.

Mr Agyepong also highlighted the broader impact of YEA’s initiatives, noting that the agency has trained 10,000 youth across various technical skills, with an additional 10,000 currently training in trades like tiling, plumbing, auto mechanics, and IT.

“We’re building people up with skill development and entrepreneurship across the nation,” he added.

A representative from the Fisheries Commission connected the program to the Commission’s “Aquaculture for Food and Jobs” initiative, which seeks to boost fish production and provide decent jobs.

“Our vision is to increase fish production and create jobs for youth and women,” the representative said.

“This collaboration with YEA will help us realize that vision.”

Lt. Colonel Jalali Din Ibrahim of the 66 Artillery Regiment also expressed pride in the partnership, pledging the regiment’s support for the program’s success.

“We’re pleased to collaborate and help this project reach its full potential,” he remarked.

This aquaculture initiative is part of YEA’s broader strategy to tackle unemployment through skill development, with fish farming identified as a sector with strong growth potential in local markets.

YEA’s goal is to drive immediate job creation while promoting long-term sustainability, empowering Ghanaian youth and meeting the country’s growing demand for fish products.

To oversee the project’s activities, a seven-member committee has been commissioned, including Lt. Col. Jalali Din Ibrahim, Lt. (Gen) Kojo Edem Agezo, Sub Lt. Sebastian Osabarima, Dr. Lawrence Armah Ahiah, Jenifer Viglo, and Fordjour.

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Hot and Dry West African Weather Boosts Cocoa Prices

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Cocoa prices Monday moved moderately higher, with London cocoa posting a 3-1/2 week high.  Cocoa prices jumped Monday after forecaster Maxar Technologies said parts of Ghana and Nigeria are experiencing dry and hot weather that could impact the cocoa mid-crop, which officially starts in April.

Shrinking global cocoa stockpiles are bullish for prices.  ICE-monitored cocoa inventories held in US ports have been trending lower for the past 17 months and fell to a 19-year low Monday of 1,698,375 bags.

Cocoa also has carryover support from last Thursday when CEO of Barry Callebaut, one of the world’s largest chocolate producers, said that while cocoa crops in West Africa are showing “significant improvement versus last year,” they are still not at levels seen in the 2022/23 season.

On the negative side is news that the pace of the Ivory Coast cocoa harvest is picking up, which is boosting supplies.  Government data today showed that Ivory Coast farmers shipped 454,624 MT of cocoa to ports from October 1 to November 10, up +30% from 348,560 MT shipped the same time last year.  The Ivory Coast is the world’s largest cocoa producer.  

Cocoa prices were undercut when the Ivory Coast regulator Le Conseil Cafe-Cacao on October 18 raised its Ivory Coast 2024/25 cocoa production estimate to a range of 2.1-2.2 MMT from a June forecast of 2.0 MMT.

Recent global cocoa demand news was mixed.  The National Confectioners Association on October 17 reported that North American Q3 cocoa grindings rose +12% y/y to 109,264 MT.  Also, the Cocoa Association of Asia reported that Q3 Asian cocoa grinding rose +2.6% y/y to 216,998 MT.  However, the European Cocoa Association reported that European Q3 cocoa grindings fell -3.3% y/y to 354,335 MT.  

Cocoa found support after Ghana’s Cocoa Board (Cocobod) on August 20 cut its 2024/25 Ghana cocoa production estimate to 650,000 MT from a June forecast of 700,000 MT.  Due to bad weather and crop disease, Ghana’s 2023/24 coca harvest sank to a 23-year low of 425,000 MT.  Ghana is the world’s second-biggest cocoa producer, and its 2024/25 cocoa harvest begins in October.

An increase in cocoa production by Cameroon, the world’s fifth-largest cocoa producer, is bearish for cocoa prices.  On August 21, Cameroon’s National Cocoa and Coffee Board reported that in 2023/24 (Aug/July), Cameroon cocoa production rose +1.2% y/y to 266,725.  Also, Nigeria’s August cocoa exports rose by +6.8% y/y to 14,984 MT.  Nigeria is the world’s sixth-largest cocoa producer.

In a bullish factor, the International Cocoa Association (ICCO) on August 30 raised its 2023/24 global cocoa deficit estimate to -462,000 MT from May’s -439,000 MT, the largest deficit in over 60 years.  ICCO also cut its 2023/24 cocoa production estimate to 4.330 MMT from May’s 4.461 MMT.  ICCO projected a 2023/24 global cocoa stocks/grindings ratio of a 46-year low of 27.4%.

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Government to launch Tree Crop Diversification Project for economic resilience

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The Government of Ghana in partnership with the World Bank is set to launch the Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project (TCDP), scheduled for November 14, 2024, in Accra.

This groundbreaking initiative is designed to reshape Ghana’s agricultural sector and foster sustainable economic growth through the diversification of tree crops.

This was stated in a press release from the Ministry of food and Agriculture, dated November 11, 2024.

The Ministry acknowledged the tree crop sector as vast potential for driving economic progress, as the Government of Ghana aims to confront key challenges that compromise productivity and sustainability in the production of cocoa, cashew, coconut, and rubber.

The Ministry further indicated that the project will also address critical issues such as child labour and gender inequality within the agricultural industry.

“The TCDP proposes a two-pronged approach focusing on both cocoa and other strategic tree crops to enhance productivity, improve market access, and bolster the competitiveness of the private sector”, the Ministry indicated, reiterating that with a total budget of USD 227.5 million, which includes a USD 27.5 million contribution from the Government of Ghana through COCOBOD, the project encompasses four primary components.

The Ministry highlighted the components, indicating that the project will Strengthen the Value Chain in Governance, Enhance Tree Crop Productivity and Climate Resilience, Support Post-Harvest Management, Value Addition, and Market Access and finally Project Coordination, Management, Monitoring, and Evaluation.

The Ministry affirmed the objectives of the project, stating, “the project aims to achieve significant outcomes, such as increased yields and value addition for target tree crops; improved climate adaptation strategies, and substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions”.

The TCDP will also implement protective measures to address child labour and promote gender equity in the agricultural workforce.

On geographic focus and beneficiaries, the Ministry stated that the TCDP would be rolled out in eleven districts across six regions of Ghana, carefully chosen for their potential to maximize impact.

The targeted areas for Cocoa includes, Western North’s Essam and Adabokrom, and Asamankese in the Eastern Region.

Also, targeted areas for Cashew includes Bole and Sawla-Tuna-Kalba in the Savana Region, Wenchi and Tain in the Bono Region, and Techiman Municipal and Techiman North in the Bono East Region.

Again, areas for Coconut includes Upper West Akim and Suhum in the Eastern Region, and Rubber in Upper West Akim.

The project is set to benefit over 52,775 farmers, with a specific focus on empowering women and youth within the agricultural sector.

It is expected to generate approximately 20,000 jobs, significantly enhancing the livelihoods of local communities.

“The Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project signifies a major step forward in the country’s dedication to achieving sustainable economic transformation. By harnessing the potential of the tree crop sector, the Government of Ghana and its partners aim to cultivate a more inclusive and resilient agricultural economy”. The Ministry said.

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Ghana increases her cocoa farm gate price from GH₵48,000 to GH₵49,600 per metric ton.

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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed his commitment to the agriculture sector by announcing a notable increment of the cocoa farm gate price, raising from GH₵48,000 to GH₵49,600 per metric ton.

This adjustment, which represents a slight rise of previous rate set in September for the 2024/2025 crop season, aims to align cocoa prices with prevailing market conditions and provide crucial support to Ghanaian cocoa farmers.

This increase offers the cocoa farmers the better return on their hard work in light of the various economic challenges they face.The announcement was made during the National Farmers’ Day awards ceremony held in Accra on Friday, November 8.

President Akufo-Addo, while addressing the farmers, emphasized that the increase in cocoa prices was based on recommendations made by the Producer Price Review Committee.

He expressed his confidence that this new pricing structure would help stabilize farmers’ incomes, thereby alleviating some of the economic pressures currently impacting the agricultural sector.

“I am pleased to announce, on the advice of the producer price review committee, an increase in the producer price of cocoa from GH₵48,000 to GH₵49,600 per tonne, raising the price from GH₵3,000 to GH₵3,100 per bag,” President Akufo-Addo stated.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of farmers and ensuring that their efforts in cocoa production are appropriately rewarded.

The President highlighted that the directive to periodically review prices is a vital step towards improving income security for cocoa farmers, reflecting the government’s ongoing efforts to support the agricultural industry.

By prioritizing agriculture and supporting cocoa farmers, President Akufo-Addo aims to strengthen the sector, ensuring that it remains a cornerstone of the country’s economy.

The initiatives announced during the National Farmers’ Day celebration are crucial steps toward building a resilient agricultural framework that can adapt to challenges and thrive in the future.

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Chamber of Agribusiness propounds solutions to reinvigorate Ghana’s agriculture amidst challenges

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The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana has proposed short-term, medium-term, long-term, drastic, and cutting-edge solutions to address the challenges facing agriculture in the country.

In a press release dated November 8, 2024, signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana, Farmer Anthony Kofituo Morrison, the CEO outlined several strategies to transform Ghana’s agro-industry and agriculture.

On Short-Term Solutions (2024-2026), the Chamber recommends the implementation of a National Farmer Registration and Database System, the provision of subsidized finance and credit facilities for farmers, the establishment of a National Agricultural Insurance Program, the upgrading of extension services with digital tools and expertise, and the launch of a National Agricultural Skills Development Program.

Medium-Term Solutions (2027-2030), the CEO emphasized the need for the government to develop and implement a Comprehensive Agricultural Policy, establish a National Agricultural Research and Development Institute, promote public-private partnerships for agricultural development, develop a National Irrigation Policy, and establish a National Agricultural Marketing Authority.

Long-Term Solutions, Farmer Morrison further stressed the importance of developing a National Agricultural Transformation Agenda, establishing a National Agricultural University, promoting agro-industrialization and value addition, implementing a National Climate-Resilient Agriculture Policy, and creating a National Agricultural Innovation Fund.

Drastic and Cutting-Edge Solutions, the Chamber advocates for adopting precision agriculture and digital farming, promoting urban and peri-urban agriculture, developing a National Agricultural Drones Policy, establishing a National Agricultural Data Analytics Platform, and launching a National Agricultural Innovation Challenge.

The Chamber also highlighted key challenges within the agricultural sector, including low productivity and efficiency, limited access to finance and credit facilities, inadequate infrastructure (roads, storage, and irrigation), high post-harvest losses, limited value addition and processing, and poor market access and pricing.

On Labour and Productivity Concerns, the Chamber identified issues such as a low-skilled workforce, limited training and capacity building, inefficient extension services, and high labor costs.

The Chamber urged the government to increase budget allocation for agriculture, streamline regulations and reduce bureaucracy, enhance private sector participation, prioritize agricultural research and development, and develop a comprehensive agricultural skills development program.

“We recognize the vital role you play in feeding our nation. We will continue to advocate for policies that support your well-being and success. As we celebrate National Farmers Day, let us recommit to transforming Ghana’s agro-industry and agriculture. Together, we can ensure a food-secure future for Ghana.” Farmer Morrison stated

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Channel Resources of 40th Farmers’ Day to combat “Galamsey” to enhance Ghana’s agriculture – Peasant Farmers Association

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The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana has signaled that resources and efforts meant for the 40th Farmers’ Day celebration must be channeled to tackle “Galamsey” and strengthen agricultural interventions.

In a release dated November 7, 2024, the Peasant Farmers Association outlined several hurdles in the agricultural sector, indicating that resources must be directed there to ensure a thriving agriculture in Ghana. They stated that the menace of illegal mining (Galamsey) and its impact on farming cannot be underestimated.

They highlighted, “The government’s slow and ineffective response to the Galamsey crisis suggests a lack of genuine concern for farmers’ struggles and the well-being of Ghanaians in general. Illegal mining has devastated farmlands nationwide, with over two million peasant farmers displaced and countless farms destroyed due to Galamsey activities.

Additionally, vast forest vegetation and water bodies used for domestic activities, farming, and fishing have been heavily polluted.”

“Despite promises from the government to curb illegal mining, it is clear that the government has prioritized winning votes over protecting the livelihoods of farmers, as we continue to witness widespread destruction of land and pollution in many mining communities. Celebrating Farmers’ Day without addressing the Galamsey crisis, which endangers farmers’ livelihoods, is hypocritical,” the Association reiterated.

Further, elaborating on the effects of the dry spell, they said, “Following the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s announcement on October 10 to distribute relief packages to farmers in the eight affected regions, there has been no visible progress. Thousands of farmers remain uncertain about this initiative, as many have yet to receive any form of support. Registration for relief has been fraught with issues, such as a shortage of extension personnel to assist with mapping farmlands and other technical difficulties.”

“Farmers continue to suffer the effects of climate change with little government support to provide sustainable solutions. As Ghanaians brace for a potential food shortage, the PFAG stresses the need for the ministry to prioritize collaboration with the Association and address the core issues rather than deflecting blame,” the Association affirmed.

They also indicated that the poor implementation of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) 2.0 is disheartening, as it is an ineffective and flawed rollout program that has had minimal impact on Ghanaian farmers since its launch in March.

“Like its predecessor, PFJ 2.0 has become more of a government PR gimmick than a meaningful initiative to support farmers and enhance food security. The program has deviated from its initial goals, failing to deliver on its promises, including linking farmers to their preferred service providers, providing mechanization services, storage, extension services, and linking farmers to financial institutions,” the Peasant Farmers alleged.“

Additionally, PFJ 2.0 neglects the role of the private sector as outlined in the model jointly developed by stakeholders and the ministry. The PFJ 2.0 has thus become a vehicle for political manipulation and rent-seeking, rather than genuine support for farmers,” they further indicated.The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana extended heartfelt congratulations to all farmers in Ghana on the occasion of the 40th National Farmers’ Day celebration.

The PFAG commends the dedication of all farmers, particularly smallholder farmers, who tirelessly produce food for consumption, industry, and export despite persistent challenging conditions. Over the years, the agricultural sector has faced numerous difficulties, and successive governments have largely responded with lip service.

Peasant farmers affirmed the struggles of Ghanaian farmers, highlighting, “Farmers continue to struggle with high production costs, inadequate agricultural infrastructure, insufficient irrigation facilities, inadequate storage, poor roads, and limited market infrastructure. Furthermore, farmers are burdened by high credit costs, expensive inputs, and limited access to mechanization services, along with poor market conditions and unattractive prices for their produce. Despite these obstacles, Ghanaian farmers persist in feeding the nation.”

“As farmers are celebrated nationwide for their dedication, we urge the government to move beyond grand displays and instead direct resources and energy toward addressing the real challenges that Ghanaian farmers face,” they indicated.

Peasant farmers call on the government to publicly outline the process and timelines for distribution while addressing the technical challenges in the registration process.On the issue of Galamsey, PFAG, along with its partners, remains steadfast in its calls for an immediate declaration of a state of emergency on mining activities within river bodies, forests, and farmlands.

“We also urge the government to implement a comprehensive land reclamation and restoration plan for all farmlands destroyed by illegal mining.”

To all award winners, we recognize your hard work and congratulate you on this honor. To our fellow farmers, we say a heartfelt “ayekoo” and express our hope for improved conditions to strengthen food security in Ghana.

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