In a bid to invigorate its agricultural sector and champion the ‘grow in Ghana and export from Ghana’ initiative, Ghana is setting its sights on expanding horticulture and agro-exports to Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The initiative, unveiled during the International Horticultural Expo 2023 (Expo 2023 Doha), aims to leverage cutting-edge technology and innovation to transform Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
Samuel Dentu, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), emphasized the pivotal role of horticulture in Ghana’s economic transformation. At a conference on ‘Agribusiness opportunities in Ghana within the context of Agritech,’ Dentu underscored the potential for modern agriculture, technology, and sustainability to entice investors. With agriculture employing nearly 45% of the labor force and contributing 18.78% to Ghana’s GDP in 2022, the country is strategically positioned to seize opportunities in the global horticulture market, projected to reach $40.24 billion by 2026.
Despite being the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, Ghana seeks to diversify its export portfolio and boost revenues from fruits and vegetables in the GCC region. In 2022, Ghana recorded only $3 million in export revenues from these products to the GCC, signaling untapped potential. The Expo in Doha serves as a platform for Ghana to showcase its agri-business vision and achievements, attracting investments and fostering collaborations.
Ghana’s participation aligns with its role as the host of the Secretariat of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment. The government has established advisory ministries and efficient agencies, such as the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, GEPA, Ghana Freezones Authority, Ghana Exim Bank, and Ghana Tourism Authority, to support and facilitate investments.
Banda Zakaria, Manager of GEPA Market Hub, highlighted Ghana’s ambitious goal of generating over $25 billion from non-traditional exports in the next nine years. Academia, represented by institutions like the University for Development Studies and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, discussed the pivotal role of education in driving sectoral development and attracting investments.
David Ofori from the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program emphasized the integration of technology and innovative solutions in the agricultural sector. Initiatives promoting youth involvement, coupled with improved access to financial and business facilities, underscore Ghana’s commitment to creating a thriving and sustainable agribusiness industry. As Ghana beckons investors, it envisions becoming the premier business investment destination in Africa, spurred by a commitment to growth, innovation, and global collaboration.