Ghana and the US state of Nebraska have signed a landmark 10-year agricultural partnership agreement. This cooperation aims to modernize livestock systems and strengthen food security.
This initiative directly addresses Ghana's significant reliance on imported meat and dairy products. Ghana imports nearly $100 million (approximately GHS 1.3 billion) in live animals and frozen meat each year. Dairy imports fulfill about 95% of the national demand, highlighting the urgent need for local production growth.
The agreement fits into Ghana's broader economic strategy to reduce food imports and boost domestic agricultural output. Ghana also seeks to expand investment opportunities in the agricultural sector. This partnership supports the Feed Ghana Programme which focuses on improving livestock production and expanding feed access. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture has identified livestock modernization as a national priority.
Ghana's Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, signed the Ghana–Nebraska Cooperation Agreement. Mr. Opoku stated that the partnership is more than just an exchange of knowledge. He said it is a commitment between two regions to advance livestock development. He emphasized that international cooperation strengthens food security and empowers agribusinesses. Former Nebraska State Senator Ken Schilz, co-founder of EcoSyntra and GNEBCham, noted Nebraska's global leadership in livestock production. He said the agreement connects Nebraska innovation with one of Africa’s fastest-growing agricultural economies.
This new agreement will establish pathways for Nebraska-based experts, researchers, and technical teams to work with Ghanaian institutions. They will collaborate through training programs and research partnerships. The partnership will focus on livestock modernization, dairy development, and agricultural infrastructure. It will also cover workforce training, academic exchange, and climate-resilient agriculture. Decision-makers will monitor the implementation of key pilot initiatives. These include modernizing the Tulaku Cattle Market and developing the proposed Amrahia Dairy Processing Center. Success in these areas could significantly reduce Ghana's import bill and create new jobs.
The agreement was signed during the Ghana-Nebraska Spring Livestock Modernization Partnership Tour in Nebraska. A 23-member Ghanaian delegation attended the tour. They met with livestock producers, agribusiness leaders, and universities. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), EcoSyntra LLC, the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham), and the Agrihouse Foundation formalized the pact. Nebraska was chosen due to its global expertise in areas like animal genetics and veterinary science. This long-term framework seeks to implement investments, improve infrastructure, and develop the workforce. Ghana, as the gateway to Africa and home to the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, provides access to a $3.4 trillion market. Minister Opoku invited Nebraska businesses to take advantage of this opportunity.