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
