Advancing food security and sustainability in Ghana: A collaborative approach
Ghana is taking bold steps to improve food security and sustainability by integrating agritech, agribusiness and partnerships. Initiatives such as the Horticulture Business Platform (HBP) and the African Agricultural Innovation (AIA) conference are reshaping agriculture, with digital training and support from the Netherlands Trust Fund V (NTF V) Ghana Technology Project.
The country has reduced hunger and malnutrition, but barriers remain. about 40% of the population Working in agriculture, agriculture is highly vulnerable to climate change, limited infrastructure and post-harvest losses.
Ghana imports staples such as rice, tomatoes and onions, underscoring the urgent need to strengthen local production. What’s even more serious is that post-harvest losses are as high as 30% Something that grows. Innovative solutions will be needed to turn the situation around, as well as smart policy changes and community-driven efforts.
One million people in Ghana are food insecure
One million children under five are chronically malnourished
The role of agricultural technology
Agriculture is the backbone of Ghana’s economy but faces challenges such as limited market access, inefficient supply chains and a shrinking workforce. Agritech can solve these problems.
The Horticulture Business Platform (HBP) brings together farmers, small businesses, input suppliers and farmer groups, all working towards a common goal. By partnering with key organizations, HBP promotes sustainable development in the horticulture industry, providing its members with opportunities to access local and global markets, benefit from training programs and participate in trade shows.
HBP, led by GNBCC’s Barnabas Apom, is a prime example of how targeted projects can drive growth. Originally established to build a network of Dutch-Ghanaian businesses, the GNBCC has grown to address key issues in the horticulture and cocoa sectors.
One of HBP’s signature programs is Farm to Market, which connects farmers with buyers through pre-negotiated agreements. Leveraging the technology of ITC NTF V Tech team, farmers can track their production and build confidence in financial institutions to fund agribusiness.
“Technology allows us to quickly reach larger communities, increase efficiency and encourage young people to participate in food safety and security.” Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, Director, Kosmos Innovation Center (KIC), which supports young entrepreneurs through training, mentorship and seed funding and small businesses
Build a collaborative network
Partnerships are at the heart of these successes. NTF V supports bringing together agribusiness, technology companies, investors and government agencies to find sustainable solutions. One example is the African Agricultural Innovation Conference (AIA) co-hosted by KIC. At the 2024 event, more than 1,500 farmers, technology innovators and policymakers explored collaboration opportunities.
In the conference’s “Dealing Room,” a matchmaking center connects agribusinesses with financial institutions, technology companies, and investors. AIA not only opens the door to financing but also helps shape government policies to better support agricultural small businesses. Attendees left with meaningful connections, valuable resources, and ways to grow their business.
Empower youth and women
Youth engagement and gender equality are at the heart of Ghana’s agricultural transformation. The average age of farmers in the country is now over 50, so attracting the younger generation into the industry is crucial. Programs like KIC’s Young Farmers Business Academy focus on regenerative agriculture and climate-smart practices to train young people so they can drive a sustainable agricultural revolution.
Agritech startups in NTF’s V cohort prioritize empowering women farmers. ‘Agricultural innovation’ flight data system For example, the platform provides women with the resources and tools to thrive as agricultural entrepreneurs,” said Gyan-Kesse. “These efforts not only enhance food security and economic empowerment, but also advance Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) ), ensuring that women play an integral role in shaping the future of agriculture in Ghana. “
Challenges and Opportunities
Abom said that despite great achievements, many farmers still lack smartphones and the digital skills needed to use advanced tools. “Closing this gap requires practical, tailored solutions that meet the specific needs and challenges of rural farmers.”
To promote local production, HBP is launching a pilot program to simplify market women’s access to local crops. This not only helps reduce post-harvest losses but also strengthens local food systems
sustainable future
“Developing digital solutions for farmers, even in remote areas, is a fantastic achievement,” said Bram van Opijnen, First Secretary at the Embassy of the Netherlands in Ghana. “This is testament to the power of collaboration and innovation.”
Ghana’s commitment to achieving food security and sustainable development provides a blueprint for other countries grappling with similar challenges. Technology, collaboration and inclusivity are reshaping the country’s agricultural landscape. “As these projects evolve and adapt, they enable a more resilient, equitable and sustainable future not just for Ghana but for communities around the world,” Gian-Kaiser said.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Trade Centre.
