Gov’t unveils plan to strengthen agro-processing and farmer productivity
Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to strengthen agro-processing capacity and boost farmer productivity as part of efforts to transform Ghana’s agricultural sector into a key driver of economic growth.
Speaking at the opening of the Ghana Agrotech Fair 2026, President John Dramani Mahama said the new direction is anchored on modernising agriculture and building resilient value chains that support both farmers and agribusinesses.
“Our agenda focuses on strengthening agricultural value chains, expanding agro-processing capacity, reducing post-harvest losses, improving market access, increasing farmer productivity and incomes, and positioning Ghanaian agribusiness to compete globally,” he stated.
President Mahama emphasized that agriculture must no longer be treated as a subsistence activity but as a strategic pillar of national development.
“Agriculture must no longer be treated solely as a subsistence sector, but as a strategic pillar of national economic growth, industrial expansion and export development,” he said.
The President noted that a major component of the plan involves investing in infrastructure and services that directly support farmers. He announced government’s intention to establish Farmer Service Centres across the country to provide mechanization and extension services.
“Government intends to build 50 Farmer Service Centres nationwide in the main agricultural producing areas,” he revealed.
He added that the centres will provide critical support, including access to machinery and training.
“Farmers will receive mechanization support in terms of tractors, ploughing, harrowing, transportation of fertilizers, shellers for processing their grains, and many other services. They will also benefit from training and extension support,” President Mahama explained.
According to him, improving agro-processing is essential to reducing losses and increasing the value of agricultural produce.
“Agriculture is not merely about cultivation; it is about productivity, value addition, industrial development, jobs and exports,” he stressed.
President Mahama further highlighted the role of technology and innovation in achieving these goals, noting that modern agriculture must integrate production, processing and market access.
“The future of agriculture lies not simply in expanding acreage, but in modernizing the entire agricultural value chain—from production to processing, and from logistics to global marketing,” he added.
He also called on financial institutions and investors to support the sector, urging them to see agribusiness as a viable and scalable opportunity.
“To our financial institutions and investors, agrotech must move from an admired concept to a bankable, scalable industry,” he said.
The Ghana Agrotech Fair 2026 has brought together stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, showcasing technologies and innovations aimed at boosting efficiency, improving yields and enhancing agro-processing capabilities.
President Mahama expressed confidence that with the right investments and collaboration, Ghana can build a modern agricultural sector that creates jobs, ensures food security and drives export growth.
