Digital tech key to boosting Ghana’s agribusiness - Experts

Agriculture experts, policymakers, and agribusiness leaders are calling for greater investment in digital technology to revitalize Ghana's agribusiness sector. They argue that adopting digital platforms is essential for improving market access, significantly reducing post-harvest losses, and making Ghanaian agricultural products more competitive on the international stage.

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Digital technology has become a critical tool in transforming agriculture and improving farmers’ livelihoods.

The adoption of digital tools, they explained, would empower farmers by enabling direct connections with buyers. This, in turn, is expected to boost incomes and strengthen the overall agribusiness landscape in Ghana. These calls were made during the Nkabom Seminar Series, a collaborative initiative between the Mastercard Foundation, the University of Ghana, and McGill University.

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Digital trading platforms, aggregation systems and real-time market data could help farmers, particularly those in remote communities, connect directly with buyers in urban centres and international markets.

Mr. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, highlighted digital technology as a critical instrument for transforming agriculture and improving the livelihoods of farmers. He noted that many farmers struggle with low incomes despite producing ample food, primarily due to poor market access, inadequate storage, and limited market information. Digital trading platforms, aggregation systems, and real-time market data could bridge this gap, especially for farmers in remote areas, connecting them to urban and international markets.

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Modern farming requires discipline, innovation and the effective use of technology.

Broadcast journalist and farmer Kojo Akoto Boateng stressed that modern farming demands discipline, innovation, and effective technology use. He shared his experience using digital tools to manage farms across different regions and encouraged young people to enter agribusiness by leveraging technology. Ms. Enyonam Manye, CEO of The Ghanaian Farmer Company, advised farmers to secure markets before planting and to treat farming as a business, seeking professional guidance. She also pointed out the growing demand from hotels, supermarkets, and export companies for full traceability of food products.

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Farming must be treated as a business and urged farmers to seek professional guidance from qualified agronomists instead of relying mainly on information from social media.