The Head of Innovation Finance, Markets and Partnership at the 24-hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development secretariat, Dr. Ishmeal Nii Amanor Doodo has pointed out the need for a transformation in local production to reduce the country’s dependency on food imports and strengthen the national economy.
Dr. Ishmeal Nii Amanor Doodo was speaking at the media launch of the 2nd edition of the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025 organized by the Federation of Association of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE).
The Expo is scheduled to take place at the Accra International Conference Centre from the 11 to 13th June with the aim to showcase the potential of the Ghana’s Horticulture industry.
He said there was a need to increase domestic production to meet the country’s food needs, thereby reducing the strain on foreign exchange reserves and creating jobs for the youth.
He highlighted the staggering figures surrounding food importation cost in the country, stating that the country imports nearly 500 million dollars worth of food each year, with tomatoes coasting about 400million USD, poultry 450 million USD and onions and pepper cumulatively adding millions more to the import bill.
He indicated that the country’s economy is structurally deformed with 80% of the goods and services relied upon being imported while local production only accounts for 20%.
“The fundamental issue for job creation is not aligned properly” he said.
Dr. Ishmeal Nii Amanor Doodo explained that focusing on local production will not only create jobs but will also lead to a reduction in the import bill which will allow the country to redirect financial resources into development.
Dr. Ishmeal Doodo said the 24-hour economy policy would optimize production, improve supply chains, and provide essential partnerships between the government and the private sector.
He said the country must harness its agriculture potential strategically, particularly in horticulture to turn raw produce into value-added products like biofuels processed foods and more.
“Cassava for instance can be utilized for ethanol production providing dual benefits in both agriculture and the pharmaceutical sector, Dr. Ishmeal Doodo sa, d noting the vast opportunities that exist within the sector.
Dr. Ishmeal Nii Amanor Doodo made a strong case for investing in technology and enhancing human capital to facilitate such goals.
“Ghana has the talent and resources necessary to innovate, but we need to embrace a digital transformation to keep pace with global standards”
“Imagine a future where made in Ghana proudly graces our markets, showcasing the quality and uniqueness of our agricultural products” he said.
