The Volta Africa American Chamber (VAAC) and the Volta Development Forum (VDF) have announced an ambitious plan to position the Volta Region as Ghana’s leading maize producer, complementing its established dominance in rice production. The initiative aims to boost food security, drive economic growth, and enhance Ghana’s standing as a top maize producer in Africa.
Speaking at an Agricultural Forum in Ho, Mr. Daniel Agboka-Dzegede, President of VAAC and Executive Director of VDF, emphasized that modernizing agriculture was essential for making farming attractive to the youth and improving productivity. The forum, organized in collaboration with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) and the Volta Region Farmers Association, brought together farmers, agricultural experts, and investors to explore innovations in farming practices and promote international partnerships.
“Agriculture remains a critical sector, yet in many parts of the world, it is undervalued. We need to move beyond traditional farming methods and embrace mechanization to make agriculture a viable business,” Mr. Agboka-Dzegede stated. He underscored the importance of integrating technology, mechanized equipment, and modern financial strategies to transition farming from a labor-intensive activity to a lucrative enterprise.
He also urged young people to explore diverse opportunities within the agricultural value chain, including technology, finance, marketing, and agribusiness. “Farming is not just about planting crops; it involves a range of professionals—from agronomists and soil scientists to financial analysts and marketers—who all play key roles in making agriculture profitable,” he noted.
The forum featured insights from Mr. Jay Reiners, former Nebraska Corn Board Chairman and US Grains Council Leader, who emphasized the need for sustainable agricultural practices. He pointed out that despite the high demand for food in Ghana, the country still imports a significant portion of its food supply. “By adopting modern farming techniques, Ghana can enhance food security, increase production, and stimulate economic growth,” he said.
Mr. Reiners encouraged Ghanaian farmers to embrace change, citing how American farmers faced similar challenges decades ago but adapted to technological advancements to improve efficiency and yields. “The old ways of farming are no longer sustainable. If farmers want to keep up with the demands of a growing population, they must adopt modern techniques,” he added.
Mama Awude Akua I of AgriWomen Foundation praised the initiative, stating that it would support women in agriculture and encourage their participation in agribusiness. She urged women to seize opportunities in the sector to ensure profitability and long-term sustainability in farming.
Participants at the forum called on the Volta Development Forum (VDF) to attract agro-industries to the region to create employment and facilitate access to financial support for farmers. The event concluded with a strong call to action to improve mechanized farming, add value to local produce, and enhance international collaboration to transform Ghana’s agricultural sector.
Mr. Agboka-Dzegede assured that key recommendations from the discussions would be formally submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture for review and potential implementation, reinforcing the commitment to advancing the region’s agricultural ambitions.
