Ghana, located in West Africa, has a population of approximately 33 million people, making it one of the most populous nations on the continent. The country’s economy is considered one of the fastest growing in Africa, with a GDP of approximately $75 billion as of 2023. Agriculture plays a significant role, accounting for around 20% of the country’s GDP. Key agricultural exports include cocoa, gold and oil, with a substantial portion of the population engaged in farming in rural areas, which makes for a perfect emerging market to develop demand for U.S. soy. The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) saw this firsthand when attending a recent World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) trade mission trip to Ghana, where they had the opportunity to meet with WISHH industry partners and staff located in the country’s capital, Accra, and several aquaculture and poultry farm leaders.
Poultry production in Ghana is a crucial sector within the agricultural industry. The country has experienced significant growth in domestic poultry production in recent years, driven by increasing demand for chicken meat and eggs. Ghana’s poultry industry is valued at approximately $1.2 billion, with local production largely centered around broilers and layers. Local poultry farming is vital for providing affordable protein and supporting rural livelihoods across the country, yet despite its growth, Ghana still faces challenges with feed availability and diseases.
Aquaculture in Ghana is another key component of the nation’s agricultural sector. With abundant water resources, including the Volta River and several lakes, Ghana’s fish industry has expanded rapidly in recent years due to increased demand for fish, both locally and internationally. The aquaculture sector primarily focuses on tilapia and catfish farming and faces challenges such as overfishing, water pollution and limited access to modern farming techniques. Despite these challenges, the aquaculture sector continues to contribute significantly to food security and employment, with a growing number of farmers turning to fish farming as a sustainable livelihood.
In summary, Ghana’s economy is deeply tied to agriculture, with key sectors such as poultry and aquaculture playing an essential role in its development. The poultry industry has seen substantial growth, helping meet local demand for meat and eggs, while the aquaculture sector is poised to expand further due to the country’s rich water resources. While these industries continue to face various challenges, they are crucial for food security and the livelihoods of many Ghanaians, reflecting the importance of agriculture in the country’s broader economic landscape.
