An expert in agribusiness, Abraham Dwuma Odoom, is urging Ghanaian youth to prioritize agriculture and recognize it as a lucrative entrepreneurial opportunity capable of transforming their lives.
Addressing attendees at the 2024 Youth in Agribusiness Festival in Kumasi, Mr. Odoom emphasized the importance of seizing agricultural initiatives and economic opportunities created by both the government and private firms.
He highlighted that these initiatives often provide essential resources for farming, such as land, water access, modern equipment, and planting materials, which are typically barriers for youth entering the sector.
By leveraging existing resources and policy initiatives, interested individuals can access the necessary support to launch successful agricultural ventures without starting from scratch.
The two-day programme, which was held under the theme “Agribusiness Modernisation: Tool for Sustainable Youth Employment in Ghana,” was organised by the John A. Kufuor Foundation.
Mr. Odoom emphasized that if a significant portion of Ghanaians ventured into modern agriculture, it would lead to a more stable economy and lessen the country’s dependence on imported goods.
He also used the platform to advocate for consensus on the prudent use of pesticides in Ghanaian farms, cautioning against excessive usage due to its detrimental effects on health. He stressed the need for deliberate efforts to regulate pesticide usage.
Expressing concern, Mr. Kwasi Nyamekye, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), highlighted the growing preference for foreign products among Ghanaians. He cited the poultry industry as an example, noting that although it provides significant employment opportunities, locals tend to favor imported poultry products, often citing cost as a deterrent.
Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah, Chief Executive Officer of the John A. Kufuor Foundation, outlined the program’s objective of creating platforms for Ghanaian youth to capitalize on the abundant opportunities in the agricultural sector. He emphasized the urgent need for young people to take up roles in agriculture as the elderly, who have traditionally dominated the sector, retire.
Prof. Agyeman-Duah stressed the importance of embracing modern farming technologies to tackle unemployment and drive Ghana’s socio-economic development.