The Government of Ghana is preparing to roll out a large-scale agricultural initiative expected to generate over 500,000 new jobs nationwide. The project, centered on the expansion of oil palm and other economic crops, forms part of the government’s long-term plan to transform agriculture into a key driver of industrial growth and employment.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson disclosed the initiative during a meeting with Ethiopis Tafara, the Regional Vice President for Africa at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), in Washington, D.C. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Ghana and the IFC to attract more investment into Ghana’s agricultural sector.
According to Dr. Forson, government is finalising a National Oil Palm Plantation Policy, which will be introduced in the 2026 Budget. The policy aims to harness the economic potential of key cash crops by creating value chains that will support farmers, processors, manufacturers, and exporters.
“The opportunities in economic crops are vast. With the right investment and strong partnerships, Ghana can create over 500,000 jobs across the agricultural value chain,” Dr. Forson stated.
“Agriculture will remain at the heart of our economic transformation strategy.”
He explained that large-scale development of these crops will require patient capital, noting that government is engaging the World Bank, IFC, and other development partners to mobilise funding that promotes private sector participation.
The initiative complements the IFC’s broader goal of supporting sustainable agriculture across Africa. Mr. Tafara reaffirmed the IFC’s readiness to collaborate with Ghana to achieve lasting economic progress.
“Agriculture is central to Africa’s growth story. Working with governments like Ghana’s allows us to unlock private sector potential and create real impact,” Mr. Tafara said.
This new programme is expected to boost productivity, advance agro-industrialisation, and enhance export competitiveness, while creating massive job opportunities for youth and rural communities.
