Trade Ministry Secures 40,000 Acres for Large-Scale Farming in Yeji

The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry announced it has secured access to approximately 40,000 acres of land in the Yeji traditional area. This land will support large-scale commercial farming and agribusiness investment. This move aims to directly tackle a major obstacle for businesses looking to invest in Ghana's agricultural sector.

Kwame Oppong-Ntim, Director for Agribusiness, highlighted that a primary challenge for agricultural investors is obtaining land that is free from legal disputes. The ministry negotiated this land access through discussions with the traditional authorities in Yeji. The government has not purchased the land outright. Instead, an equity-based model was established. This means traditional leaders contribute the land as their share, becoming part-owners of the farming ventures.

This initiative is a significant step for Ghana's agricultural development. Access to arable land is crucial for increasing food production and creating jobs. The Ghanaian economy relies heavily on agriculture, which contributes significantly to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Previous government efforts have also focused on improving agricultural productivity, but land tenure issues have persistently hindered large-scale foreign and domestic investment. In 2023, agriculture accounted for about 18.3% of Ghana's GDP, employing a substantial portion of the workforce.

Mr. Oppong-Ntim stated that the ministry is currently processing land registration and documentation. This ensures prospective investors have confidence before land is allocated. This project is separate from other government land-bank initiatives. However, it could complement them in the future. The ministry is also exploring potential agricultural sites along the Volta Lake. These areas offer access to water and fertile land for year-round farming activities.

This land deal is expected to reduce conflicts between investors and local communities. It will also simplify the process for investors targeting large-scale farming. The Ministry's focus on an equity model demonstrates a creative approach to securing investment. This can also lead to more sustainable partnerships between investors and traditional landholders. This initiative could unlock significant economic potential for the Yeji region. It also signals the government's commitment to modernizing Ghana's agricultural landscape and attracting substantial investment in agribusiness.