Interview: Muhammadu Muzzammil
Which reforms can help Ghana develop its agriculture value chain to stimulate economic growth?
MUHAMMADU MUZZAMMIL: While the country boasts favourable conditions, the current import-dependent status of various crops has limited the role of the private sector in the agriculture value chain. Meanwhile, farmers are unable to provide sufficient quantities of products to satisfy demand, due in part to a lack of improved seed types and inadequate post-harvest management.
To bridge this gap, there is the need to reform the land tenure system, which will foster a shift from smallholder farming towards larger-scale, commercially viable agriculture. This transformation necessitates comprehensive strategies, spanning from seed technology to financial literacy. Moreover, smallholder farmers should have access to affordable machinery, which will not only enhance productivity but also position agriculture as a lucrative business opportunity for the youth.
In what ways can technology boost efficiency and added value in the agriculture sector?
MUZZAMMIL: A historical analysis of global agricultural revolutions reveals that technology, financial access, knowledge dissemination and market creation form the foundation for change. In the Ghanaian context, technology adoption needs to be nuanced, considering the predominance of smallholder farmers. For instance, in the rice value chain, introducing simple, affordable machinery such as power tillers can significantly impact seeding, planting and harvesting processes.
To enhance post-harvest value addition, the focus should shift towards empowering local entrepreneurs with small-scale processing machinery. This strategy not only reduces post-harvest losses but also creates a network of small-scale industries, contributing to sustainable economic growth. Agricultural banks should play a proactive role in supporting rural youth willing to invest in these technologies, thereby fostering a culture of entrepreneurship within Ghana’s agriculture sector.
What policy reforms can help Ghana increase domestic food production and boost exports?
MUZZAMMIL: To strengthen domestic food production, the overarching goals of empowering the youth and promoting mechanisation should guide policy development and implementation. While current policies focus on subsidising inputs like fertilisers and seeds, a strategic shift is required to include mechanisation subsidies. This should be complemented by clear monitoring mechanisms to ensure effective utilisation.
Identifying key crops and tailoring sector-specific policies is vital. Crops like tomatoes and rice, on which Ghana heavily depends on imports to meet demand, should be at the forefront of policy considerations. Simultaneously, cash crops with export potential – such as cashew, soya and sesame – require targeted strategies for expansion. Encouraging small-scale entrepreneurs in post-processing industries, backed by support from agricultural banks, will further propel the value addition chain. By providing due attention to every crop, Ghana can systematically bolster its agriculture economy, ensuring sustainable growth.
How can commodity export barriers be lowered in the region to enhance integration?
MUZZAMMIL: Efforts have been made through regional bodies like ECOWAS to foster free trade in the region. For example, the African Continental Free Trade Area introduced a fund to mitigate potential negative impacts on countries affected by trade barrier removals. While these external initiatives are crucial, the true success lies in Ghana’s ability to strengthen its agricultural output. By strategically increasing agricultural exports to match or exceed imports, the country could position itself favourably in the context of regional and continental trade. Comprehensive policies and collaboration are imperative to ensure the agriculture sector not only meets domestic demand, but also contributes to regional economic integration.
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