- Launch of the Feed Ghana Programme: In April 2025, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture introduced the Feed Ghana Programme, aiming to boost local agricultural production, reduce food imports, and create sustainable jobs. The initiative includes establishing farmers’ service centers and promoting grains and legumes cultivation.
- $1 Million Revolving Fund for Northern Regions: Ghana unveiled a $1 million revolving fund to strengthen agricultural development in the northern regions, focusing on climate-smart agriculture and supporting 50,000 farmers, particularly women and youth.
- DBG’s GH₵500 Million Commitment: The Development Bank Ghana committed GH₵500 million in 2025 to boost the agriculture sector, aiming to enhance productivity and support agribusinesses.
- Drought-Induced Crop Failures: In 2024, Ghana experienced drought-induced crop failures in eight out of its 16 administrative regions, leading to increased imports of wheat, corn, and rice.
- Cocoa Traceability Pilot Program: Ghana initiated a pilot program to trace cocoa beans from farms to ports in preparation for the EU’s deforestation law, aiming to ensure compliance and maintain access to the European market.
- Increase in Cocoa Farmgate Price: In November 2024, Ghana raised the fixed farmgate price for cocoa farmers to GH₵49,600 per metric ton, aiming to boost farmers’ incomes and address smuggling issues.
- Agricultural Diversification Efforts: The government emphasized diversifying agricultural production beyond traditional crops like cocoa and maize, encouraging the cultivation of high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables, and cashew.
- Expansion of Food Processing Industry: Ghana’s food processing industry expanded significantly, with imports of food processing ingredients surpassing $1.24 billion in 2024, up 44% from the previous year.
- World Bank Support for Food System Resilience: In April 2025, the World Bank approved additional financing for the second phase of the West Africa Food System Resilience Program, aiming to help Ghana strengthen its capacities to address food insecurity and build resilient food systems.
- Agricultural Sector’s Economic Contribution: Agriculture remained a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy, representing 21% of GDP and employing 71% of the rural population, with smallholder farmers accounting for about 60% of all farms.
So What?
These developments underscore Ghana’s commitment to revitalizing its agriculture sector through strategic investments, policy reforms, and resilience-building initiatives. As the nation navigates challenges like climate change and global market dynamics, continued support and innovation will be crucial for sustainable growth.
