Samson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG), received a Certificate of Appreciation at the 2026 International World Rice Conference. This recognition acknowledged his significant contributions to the global rice industry. The award was presented by The Rice Trader and the International Commodity Institute during the three-day event in Manila, Philippines, held from October 7 to 9.
Mr. Awingobit was specifically honoured for his active participation, knowledge-sharing, and efforts to strengthen collaboration. These efforts connect rice producers, farmers, importers, and exporters across international markets. His engagement highlights Ghana's role in global trade discussions and its commitment to improving its agricultural sector.
Ghana faces a substantial challenge in its rice sector, importing over 1.8 million metric tonnes of rice in a recent period. This heavy reliance on foreign supply strains the national economy and impacts food security. The government's 'Planting for Food and Jobs' initiative, for example, aims to reduce such import dependencies across various food crops. Boosting local rice production aligns directly with these broader national economic goals.
Speaking on the sidelines of the conference, Mr. Awingobit issued a direct appeal to international investors. He specifically urged Vietnamese businesses to invest in Ghana's rice production sector. This investment is crucial for boosting local output and significantly reducing the country's dependence on imported rice. Vietnam is a major global rice producer and exporter, making its expertise and capital highly valuable.
Mr. Awingobit stressed the urgent need for improved seed quality, higher yields, and better packaging for locally produced rice. These enhancements are vital to make Ghanaian rice more competitive against imported varieties. Without these improvements, local rice struggles to capture a larger share of the domestic market.
The IEAG Executive Secretary also revealed that the Ghanaian government has started engaging major rice importers. The goal is to encourage these importers to prioritise locally produced rice for distribution. This strategic move aims to create a more robust market for domestic farmers. Import permits are also expected to manage supply shortfalls and prevent food insecurity, ensuring a stable supply for consumers.
This year's conference marked Mr. Awingobit's third participation in the event. He previously attended editions in Manila in 2024 and Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in 2025. His consistent presence at these international gatherings underscores Ghana's commitment to global agricultural dialogue. The IEAG believes his continued engagement with international stakeholders will strengthen trade partnerships. It will also expand business opportunities and improve Ghana's access to global rice markets, fostering economic growth.
Increased investment in Ghana's rice sector could create numerous jobs, particularly in rural areas. It would also conserve foreign exchange reserves currently spent on imports. This shift would bolster the cedi's stability and support the broader agricultural value chain. The government's policy direction, combined with private sector initiatives, is critical for achieving rice self-sufficiency.