Agritech innovator Evans Kyere-Mensah has declared that agriculture represents a significant pathway to wealth for young Ghanaians. He spoke at the Ghana Youth Agriculture Summit 2026 on Friday, May 22. Mr. Kyere-Mensah wants to change how young people view farming. Many believe success is only in city offices or abroad. They often see agriculture as a last resort.
"For too long, many young people have been made to believe that success only exists in offices, in suits, in Accra, or somewhere abroad. Many have been taught to see agriculture as a last option instead of one of the greatest opportunities of our generation," he said. Mr. Kyere-Mensah strongly disagrees with this view. He stated that agriculture is a major economic sector filled with vast possibilities.
"But let me say this clearly today: agriculture is not poverty. Agriculture is not punishment. Agriculture is a business. Agriculture is an industry. Agriculture is technology. And agriculture is wealth creation," he declared. Food production and agricultural goods are the foundation for many large businesses, often called value chains. The food consumed daily offers substantial business chances. Grains like maize and cassava, along with poultry and livestock, are part of value chains worth billions of Ghana cedis.
Mr. Kyere-Mensah also advised young people to begin their ventures without waiting for massive amounts of money. Successful businesses often start small. He mentioned that great companies rarely start big. They begin with a clear vision, steady effort, and bravery. He encourages them to start where they are and with what they have. Small ventures can grow into significant enterprises over time. Examples include poultry farming, cassava processing, and digital agribusiness platforms.
He highlighted that institutions like the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) offer support. Other helpful programs include the National Service Authority and various youth entrepreneurship initiatives. These programs provide training, advice, and financial help for new businesses. However, he stressed that success depends on being ready and prepared.
Kyere-Mensah described agriculture as a complete system. This includes production, moving goods (logistics), technology, selling products, processing them, and exporting. It also covers farm machinery, media coverage, and new ideas. "Ghana does not lack opportunities. What we often lack is the courage to believe that we can build from where we are," he stated. He predicts that the next generation of wealthy Ghanaians will come from agribusiness and agricultural innovation, not just traditional office jobs.
To every young person attending, he advised: "Do not wait for perfect conditions. Do not underestimate your beginning. Your journey can start today." He urged them to use the summit to reshape their ambitions. They should actively explore the chances within the agricultural sector.