Ghana targets 3 tons per hectare soybean yield

Ghana plans to implement a National Soybean Strategy to significantly increase soybean productivity and improve its agricultural sector. This initiative aims to elevate the average yield from 1.7 metric tons per hectare to closer to 3 metric tons per hectare, matching international standards. The strategy seeks to strengthen the entire soybean value chain, benefiting farmers, processors, and the national economy.

The strategy is a key component of the Harnessing Agricultural Productivity and Prosperity for Youth (HAPPY) Programme. Stakeholders including farmers, aggregators, processors, and policymakers are working together to create a detailed plan. This coordinated effort addresses current challenges such as low productivity, underutilised processing facilities, and imbalanced trade practices. It focuses on boosting incomes for soybean farmers and ensuring a more robust agribusiness sector.

Soybean is a vital crop for Ghana's economy, serving as a critical protein source for both human consumption and animal feed. It is essential for the poultry, livestock, and aquaculture industries. Boosting its production and processing contributes directly to national food security and reduces reliance on imports. This strategy fits into Ghana's broader economic goals of diversifying agricultural output and promoting local value addition.

Abrahim Sarfo, a Value Chain and Enterprise Development Specialist at Agri-Impact, highlighted the strategy's importance. He stated, “The National Soyabean Strategy is part of a collective effort of all stakeholders... to have one document that outlines as a country our key strategic interventions.” He added that the goal is to move the soybean value chain to a more productive level that provides better income for farmers. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture confirms the strategy will provide a structured framework for sector growth, with consultations ongoing across the country.

The strategy will tackle several critical issues. First, it will address low productivity through investments in improved seed varieties, climate-smart farming techniques, and mechanisation. Second, it aims to increase the utilisation of Ghana's soybean processing plants, which currently operate at only 40 percent capacity. Third, it will manage trade imbalances, ensuring that local industries have sufficient supply while also allowing for controlled exports. This balance is crucial to support domestic processing and prevent dependence on imported soybeans.

Financing remains a major challenge, with investments in the value chain often being fragmented. The strategy intends to streamline investment requirements and attract necessary capital. It also calls for stronger policy alignment to support agribusiness growth. Without supportive macroeconomic conditions, local production could face significant hurdles.

The National Soybean Strategy is designed to run until 2030, with built-in provisions for regular reviews. These reviews will allow for adjustments based on changing economic conditions and performance metrics. This long-term vision aims to ensure sustained growth and resilience in Ghana's soybean sector. The successful implementation of this strategy is expected to create jobs, particularly for youth, women, and persons with disabilities, aligning with the broader objectives of the HAPPY Programme.