Mahama Prioritises Agribusiness in New Vision for Ghana’s Industrial Takeoff

President John Dramani Mahama has introduced a transformative national agribusiness plan, positioning the sector as the backbone of Ghana’s next phase of economic growth. Speaking at the inaugural National Agribusiness Dialogue in Accra, he stressed the urgent need to reset the nation’s development priorities by placing agribusiness at the centre of Ghana’s trade and industrial policies.

The event, held under the theme “Resetting Agribusiness for Inclusive and Sustainable Industrial Growth,” brought together public and private stakeholders to chart a new direction for the sector. According to President Mahama, agribusiness holds the key to unlocking Ghana’s industrial potential, creating jobs, and ensuring food security.

“This Dialogue must move beyond mere talk,” he told participants. “It’s a defining moment to act decisively and turn agribusiness into a strategic pillar for our industrial future.”

A Shift Toward Agro-Industrialisation

Mahama explained that the realignment of the Ministry of Trade to include Agribusiness and Industry reflects a deliberate pivot towards agro-industrialisation. He said this shift will enable Ghana to break from the constraints of a primarily agrarian economy and move towards becoming a competitive, export-led manufacturing nation.

Highlighting the opportunities ahead, he called for major investments in food production corridors, particularly in the northern parts of the country. He also advocated for the construction of infrastructure to ease the transportation of agricultural produce and expand market access.

“Our competitive edge lies in our fertile lands, youthful population, and access to water resources,” he noted, adding that with the right support, Ghana can emerge as a global player in the agribusiness value chain.

Policy Backing for 24-Hour Economy

To support this transformation, the President outlined key programmes aligned with his 24-hour economy vision. These include:

• Keep the Industries Initiative

• Rapid Industrialisation Programme

• Accelerated Export Development Agenda

He underscored the need for year-round agricultural production backed by irrigation and modern equipment. This, he said, would ensure a steady supply of raw materials to local industries.

President Mahama also announced the launch of the Feed Industry Programme, focused on:

1. Commercial Farmer Development

2. Post-Harvest Loss Solutions

3. Industrial and Market Development

4. Institutional Capacity Building

These initiatives aim to boost the current industrial capacity from 30–40% to at least 70–80%, while building a more reliable supply chain for Ghanaian industries.

Empowering Local Producers and SMEs

The President further revealed plans to develop a national database of agro-based products manufactured locally, to guide procurement policies and boost patronage of made-in-Ghana goods. The approach, he said, will support local producers, especially smallholders and women-led enterprises, and promote inclusive growth.

Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, lauded the initiative and affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to repositioning agribusiness as the engine of job creation and national development.

“This Dialogue marks a bold new direction,” she stated. “We’re crafting a homegrown policy rooted in sustainability and inclusive participation.”

With this renewed focus on agribusiness, Ghana is poised to enter a new era of economic transformation—one that harnesses the full potential of its people, natural resources, and innovation capacity to drive industrial and social progress.