Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, is confident that agriculture remains a significant factor in boosting Ghana’s economy.
He noted that the agricultural sector could create employment for thousands of youth if the government implements the right measures to make it attractive to young people and investors.
Addressing the Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Eric Opoku, and his entourage at the Manhyia Palace on Friday, June 13, 2025 during their visit, the Asante monarch suggested that, “Agriculture is the only way to grow Ghana’s economy.”
The Asantehene expressed concern that the nation has failed to prioritise agriculture and whip up interest among young people, despite its potential to grow the national economy.
He advised the Minister to formulate policies that would attract the private sector and encourage youth participation in agriculture to create employment opportunities and generate foreign income.
He further advised the Ministry of Agriculture to focus on irrigation farming and modernising agriculture, while encouraging traditional leaders to use their lands as equity for large-scale farming.
The King also urged the Minister to work towards reducing Ghana’s importation of vegetables, foodstuffs, and poultry by 50% within two years.
The Minister for Agric announced that Ghana imports tomatoes, onions, grains, and cereals in commercial quantities for domestic and industrial consumption which negatively affect the economy.
He stated that the government has planned to improve the agricultural sector with the introduction of policies and programmes.
He mentioned Feed Ghana, support for poultry producers, support for community commodity cooperative unions, and other interventions as the government’s efforts to grow the sector and improve Ghana’s economy.
He appealed to Ghanaians, particularly traditional leaders, sector players, and other major stakeholders, to support the government in developing the agriculture sector for the good of the nation.
The Minister for Agriculture thanked Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his advice and promised to work hard to improve the sector.
BY Thomas Awuah Asem
Kumasi
