The 3rd Edition of the International Coconut Festival is a collaborative endeavour involving the African Coconut Group, the Western Regional Coordinating Council, GEPA, Solidaridad, and the Tree Crop Authority TCDA.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Agric Minister, Bryan Acheampong at the launch, the Deputy Agriculture Minister for Food and Agriculture, Yaw Frimpong Addo said, that agriculture remains a cornerstone of the nation’s economic development.
The sector according to him contributes 20 percent of Ghana’s GDP and employs over a quarter of the country’s labour force.
He underscored the impact of coconut production on local economies in some regions of the country.
“Coconut is cultivated extensively in Western, Central, Accra, Eastern, Ashanti, and Volta, and to a lesser extent in Bono, Ahafo, and Oti.
It is a significant source of income for households along the coast of Ghana, especially in the Jomoro, Ellembelle, and Nzema East districts, where production is concentrated.
Recent trends in coconut cultivation have favoured 10- to 200-hectare plantations with a commercial focus.”
He said that to realize the full potential of Ghana’s coconut industry, the government has put in some measures.
To realize the potential of Ghana’s coconut industry, the government is procuring a $200 million IDA-World Bank facility for a six-year Tree Crop Diversification Project with the aim of developing four tree crop commodities, namely cocoa, cashew, rubber, and coconut.
The facility will finance the following interventions. Institutional Strengthening and Value Chain Governance, improving Tree Crops Productivity and Climate Resilience; and Support for Post-Harvest Management, Value Addition, and Market Access.
The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Export Promotion Authority, GEPA, Dr. Afua Asabea Asare says the International Coconut Festival is a platform to showcase the richness of the coconut industry, as the sector has witnessed remarkable growth.
This year’s festival features a range of activities including seminars, mentorship programs for young entrepreneurs, farm visits, and dedicated sessions for women involved in the industry.
The festival is focused on investing in Ghana’s Coconut Sector for an inclusive climate and social resilience.
