Akufo-Addo touts unprecedented achievements in Ghana’s agriculture sector
In a speech commemorating the 40th National Farmers’ Day on Friday, November 8, 2024, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo highlighted the “unprecedented” achievements in Ghana’s agricultural sector under his administration.
Speaking to an audience of farmers, agricultural stakeholders, and policymakers, he emphasized the significant strides made since 2017 to transform agriculture into a dynamic, resilient, and productive sector, particularly amid climate challenges.
Akufo-Addo stated that his administration has focused on the well-being of farmers and fisherfolk, recognizing them as central to Ghana’s economy. “Your well-being is Ghana’s strength,” he remarked, adding that efforts have centered on food security, wealth creation, and job provision.
The Programme for Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ), launched in 2017, spearheaded this transformation. “Our objectives were ambitious,” he noted, “aiming for food security, import substitution, wealth creation, and job provision, especially for our youth.”
The PFJ introduced subsidies on essential inputs such as seeds and fertilizers, easing access for farmers nationwide. The program, which includes five modules—Food Crops, Planting for Exports and Rural Development (PERD), Livestock, Mechanisation, and Greenhouse Horticulture—aims to boost both food production and export value while creating sustainable jobs.
In August 2023, PFJ 2.0 shifted from traditional subsidies to an agricultural input credit system tied to market arrangements, promoting resilience and sustainability.
According to the President, PFJ’s success is evident in key agricultural metrics. From 2017 to 2023, agricultural GDP growth rose from 2.7% to 5.7%.
Production of staple crops, including cereals, legumes, and tubers, increased by over 100%, 68%, and 59%, respectively, reflecting greater food availability, job creation, and improved livelihoods. Additionally, non-traditional agricultural exports increased from $371 million in 2016 to $515 million in 2022.
Internationally, Ghana’s agricultural success has been recognized, with the African Union’s 2023 biennial review ranking Ghana as the top-performing agricultural nation in West Africa—a notable rise from seventh place in 2017.
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