The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) held its first Agribusiness Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting on May 7, 2026. This move aims to strengthen partnerships and boost Ghana’s agribusiness sector under the Free Zones Programme. The meeting gathered key industry leaders to discuss strategies for making Ghana a competitive hub for agribusiness in the sub-region.
This initiative targets Ghana’s significant agricultural potential. It seeks to increase foreign exchange earnings through enhanced agro-exports. The Free Zones Programme offers incentives, like tax breaks, to attract investments. These investments will create jobs and contribute to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Improving processing capabilities will also add more value to raw agricultural products.
Ghana’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, which contributes over 20% to its GDP. The sector employs more than 40% of the workforce. However, a large portion of agricultural produce is exported as raw materials. This limits its economic impact. Developing agro-industrial parks and robust value chains is critical for Ghana's economic diversification. It also helps in achieving food security goals.
Lateef Apau Wiredu, Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Operations, highlighted the group's purpose. He noted the importance of clear objectives and strong institutional coordination. This ensures successful implementation of agribusiness policies. Dr. Abdul-Wahab Alhassan, Director of Agribusiness, outlined key areas. These include creating agro-industrial parks and strengthening agricultural value chains. They also involve enhancing policy support and promoting strategic investments.
A seven-member committee will guide the TWG’s activities. This committee includes representatives from GFZA, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and GIZ. Other members are from the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry (MOTAI) and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA). The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana and the Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness are also on board. This diverse representation shows a coordinated approach to agribusiness development.
This working group aims to attract significant investments into Ghana’s free zones. These investments will focus on agro-processing and export-oriented agriculture. Success will lead to higher export revenues and more stable jobs. It will also reduce Ghana’s reliance on importing processed food products. Investors will watch for clear policy frameworks and effective implementation. The government's commitment to these initiatives will be crucial for market confidence and attracting foreign direct investment.