Ghana’s agriculture sector has experienced significant growth in the first half of 2024, expanding by 5.0%. According to the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, this performance was bolstered by a robust 4.7% growth in the first quarter and an even stronger 5.4% growth in the second quarter, showcasing the sector’s resilience and its pivotal role in the country’s economic recovery.
The Minister attributed the sector’s expansion to several key factors, including government initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural productivity, such as the Planting for Food and Jobs program, and investments in irrigation and mechanization.
He noted that these interventions have helped to increase crop yields, improve food security, and support the livelihoods of millions of farmers.
“The Agriculture sub-sectors that contributed the most to growth in the sector for the first half-year of 2024 includes a 5.6% growth in the Crops sub-sector underpinned by 5.0% growth in Q1 and 6.4% in Q2;4.7% growth in the Fishing subsector supported by 4.7% growth in Q1 and 4.7% in Q2; and .7% growth in the Livestock subsector supported by 4.6% growth in Q1 and 4.7% in Q2,” The Ministry underscored.
Increased production of staple crops like maize, rice, and cassava contributed to the sector’s overall performance. Government subsidies on fertilizers and seeds, as well as improved agricultural extension services, played a crucial role in enhancing output.
The livestock and fisheries sub-sectors also saw significant improvements, driven by policies aimed at boosting local production to reduce import dependency. Also, higher demand for cash crops, such as cocoa and cashew, in international markets also contributed to the sector’s expansion, alongside improved commodity prices.
The Finance Minister emphasized that agriculture remains a key pillar of Ghana’s economy, contributing to food security, job creation, and export revenue. The sector’s 5.0% expansion in the first half of 2024 has not only supported economic stability but also underscored the government’s focus on achieving sustainable growth through diversification.
Moving forward, the government plans to sustain this momentum by investing in technology, enhancing access to finance for farmers, and expanding market access for agricultural products, both locally and internationally.
This positive performance of the agriculture sector is expected to play a significant role in Ghana’s broader economic recovery strategy, which aims to ensure inclusive growth across all sectors.
