The government is set to launch a $227.5 million initiative on November 14, 2024, in Accra to boost Ghana’s agricultural sector and create 20,000 jobs. The project focuses on diversifying tree crops, improving productivity, and strengthening climate resilience while supporting livelihoods across key farming regions.
The initiative, known as the Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project (TCDP), is a collaboration between the Government of Ghana and the World Bank. The project is primarily funded by the World Bank, with additional support from the Government of Ghana through the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), which is contributing $27.5 million of the total $227.5 million budget.
According to a press release by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture on November 11, 2024, the Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project (TCDP) is strategically designed to transform farming in Ghana by focusing on crops like cocoa, cashew, coconut, and rubber.
The TCDP has been a critical part of Ghana’s agricultural development discussions in recent years. In June 2023, the World Bank approved $200 million in financing to support the project, emphasizing its potential to modernize agriculture and promote industrialization.
Media reports also highlighted the initiative’s goal of expanding Ghana’s tree crop sector to include high-value crops like cashew, coconut, and rubber. This diversification is expected to generate between $6 billion and $12 billion annually, complementing the $1 billion earned from cocoa exports.
With a total budget of $227.5 million, including $27.5 million from the Government of Ghana through COCOBOD, the TCDP represents a significant step toward boosting export revenues, creating jobs, and reducing poverty among farmers. The project is designed to operate in eleven districts across six regions, targeting areas with high potential for impact.
In addition to enhancing production, the TCDP will support over 52,775 farmers, with special emphasis on empowering women and young people. By creating 20,000 jobs, the project is expected to improve livelihoods in rural communities and address critical issues such as child labor and gender inequality.
Farmers are also set to benefit from improved post-harvest management systems, better access to markets, and assistance to increase the value of their produce. These efforts will ensure that farmers not only grow more but also earn more from their work.
The Ministry further highlighted the project’s focus on tackling climate change challenges. By helping farmers build resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the TCDP aligns with the government’s broader plan to diversify agriculture, drive economic growth, and create new opportunities.
