Ghana President John Dramani Mahama officially inaugurated the first-ever Tree Crop Investment Summit on Tuesday, underlining his administration’s determination to expand Ghana’s export base and harness the opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking at the event, President Mahama called for measurable impact on the ground. “Our farmers must see results, not paperwork,” he said, emphasising that Ghana will no longer export raw cashew, shea, or rubber only to import finished products at higher costs. He stressed that value addition must occur domestically to generate jobs, boost income, and strengthen the country’s economic resilience.
The President positioned the Tree Crops sector as a cornerstone of the government’s Resetting Agenda, highlighting five strategic pillars: production, job creation, exports, value addition, and inclusive growth. He announced that the sector is expected to create 250,000 direct jobs, with a focus on empowering rural communities and particularly women, who play a significant role in the cultivation and processing of priority crops.
“Agriculture must be modern, it must be profitable, and it must be attractive to young people,” President Mahama added, urging Ghanaians and investors to participate in the sector, which he described as both promising and transformative.
The summit brings together government officials, industry stakeholders, and private investors to chart a roadmap for Ghana’s tree crop sector, aiming to maximise local processing, enhance export revenues, and position the country as a continental leader in value-added agricultural commodities.
By fostering investment, creating jobs, and promoting local processing, the administration aims to transform Ghana’s tree crop sector into a major driver of economic growth and inclusive development. immediately