Ghana’s Volta region eyes top spot in maize production

GHANA – The Volta Africa American Chamber (VAAC) and the Volta Development Forum (VDF) have unveiled an ambitious vision to make the Volta Region Ghana’s number one maize producer, solidifying its dominance alongside its well-established rice production.

The Volta Region in Ghana is a leading rice-producing area, contributing significantly to national rice production. This initiative aims to exploit the region’s potential to become a major maize producer.

The Volta Africa American Chamber (VAAC) is a business and development organization dedicated to fostering trade, investment, and economic collaboration between Africa and the American business community, with a particular focus on the Volta Region of Ghana.

On the other hand, the Volta Development Forum (VDF) is a regional advocacy and development organization committed to championing sustainable economic growth, infrastructure development, and socio-economic transformation in the Volta Region. Together, these organizations work to implement strategic initiatives aimed at boosting local industries, agriculture, and trade.

Mr. Daniel Agboka-Dzegede, President of VAAC and Executive Director of VDF, announced this strategic goal during an Agricultural Forum held in Ho on March 19.  

The event, organized in collaboration with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) and the Volta Region Farmers Association, convened farmers, agricultural experts, and investors to discuss modern farming techniques, innovation, and international partnerships.

“Agriculture remains one of the most important professions, yet in our part of the world, it is often under-appreciated,” said Mr. Agboka-Dzegede.

He emphasized that traditional farming methods, such as the use of hoes and cutlasses, are outdated and deter young people from entering the sector.

“If we mechanize agriculture, we will witness an influx of the youth into the sector. The time has come to modernize farming with technology, mechanized equipment, and financial strategies that make agriculture a lucrative business rather than just a labor-intensive activity,” he added.

The forum encouraged young people to explore diverse opportunities within the agricultural value chain, including technology, finance, marketing, and agribusiness.

Mr. Agboka-Dzegede highlighted that farming is not solely about planting crops but involves agronomists, soil scientists, engineers, marketers, and financial analysts who contribute to making agriculture profitable.

All key recommendations from the forum will be submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture for consideration and implementation.

Mr. Jay Reiners, former Nebraska Corn Board Chairman and US Grains Council Leader, was among the notable speakers at the forum. He underscored the importance of sustainable agricultural practices in Ghana, stressing the need for increased local food production to reduce reliance on imports.

“There is a huge demand for food in this country, yet Ghana imports a significant amount of what it consumes. Our goal is to share modern farming methods that will increase local food production, ensure food security, and boost economic growth,” he stated.

With over 40 farmers and potential farmers in attendance, the forum concluded with a strong call to action for improved mechanized farming, value addition, and international collaboration to transform Ghana’s agricultural sector.

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