The Ghana Census of Agriculture (GCA), conducted by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) in 2017/18, shed light on the state of agriculture in the country. Despite being an essential sector for the nation’s economy, the report reveals that agriculture in Ghana is primarily rural and lacks innovation and modernization. Let’s delve into the key insights backed by figures from the report to understand the challenges facing Ghana’s agricultural sector and explore some recommendations for its growth and development.
1. Traditional Agricultural Practices Prevail
The census highlights that most agricultural holders in Ghana still rely on traditional tools and equipment for production, with negligible use of modern tools like tractors, hatcheries, and milking equipment. Furthermore, the use of fertilizers is limited, while pesticides are widely used. This indicates a need to promote the adoption of modern farming techniques and tools to enhance productivity and reduce the reliance on chemical inputs.
2. Small-Scale and Subsistence Farming Dominates
The majority of agricultural production in Ghana occurs on small-scale parcels of land, with most crops cultivated on plots smaller than 2 acres. This suggests a lack of commercial farming and an emphasis on subsistence farming. Encouraging the development of large-scale commercial farms could lead to increased productivity and greater economic benefits for the sector.
3. Low Education Levels and Male Dominance
The level of education among agricultural holders is generally low, with a significant proportion having either no formal education or only basic education. About 43.1% have never attended school, and 44.0% have only basic education. Additionally, males dominate the sector, with fewer females engaged in agriculture. Most agricultural holders in Ghana are men (71.9%), while women account for a smaller proportion (28.1%). To promote gender equality and attract more young people to the sector, efforts should be made to enhance educational opportunities and promote agribusiness as an appealing career choice.
4. Youth Apathy towards Agriculture
The Ghana Census of Agriculture report highlights that the youth find agribusiness unattractive. To address this, there is a need to change the perception of agriculture among the youth and showcase its potential as a profitable and rewarding career path. Implementing youth-oriented programs, providing training, and supporting innovative agricultural startups could help attract young entrepreneurs to the sector.
5. Limited Agricultural Institutions
The census identified relatively few agricultural institutions in Ghana, and most of them are engaged in crop cultivation and livestock rearing. About 62.9% of agricultural institutions are located in rural areas, highlighting the importance of agriculture in rural development and livelihoods. To foster a diverse and resilient agricultural sector, there is a need to promote and support the growth of agricultural institutions involved in various aspects of the value chain, including processing, value addition, and agribusiness services.
Recommendations from Ghana Census of Agriculture Report
Based on the insights derived from the Ghana Census of Agriculture, the following recommendations are proposed to address the challenges and foster the development of the agricultural sector:
a) Promote Agriculture as a Viable Business: The government and stakeholders should launch campaigns and initiatives to showcase the profitability and economic potential of agribusiness, especially among the youth, to attract more entrepreneurs into the sector.
b) Mainstream Gender and Disability Issues: Efforts should be made to ensure gender equality and inclusivity in agriculture. Programs should be designed to support female farmers and individuals with disabilities, providing them with equal access to resources and opportunities.
c) Enhance Production Efficiency: Investment in modern farming techniques, machinery, and technology can improve productivity and reduce reliance on manual labor. Training programs should be conducted to educate farmers about modern agricultural practices.
d) Diversify Agricultural Production: Encouraging diversification of crops and livestock can reduce vulnerability to market fluctuations and climate change. Support should be provided to farmers to explore and adopt new crops and livestock species.
e) Improve Agricultural Value Chain Systems: Strengthening post-harvest handling, processing, and marketing systems can reduce post-harvest losses and improve income for farmers. This involves investing in storage facilities, transportation, and market linkages.
f) Enhance Use of Agricultural Statistics: Policymakers should rely on accurate and up-to-date agricultural statistics to inform evidence-based decision-making. Timely data can help identify challenges, track progress, and formulate effective policies.
In Conclusion
The Ghana Census of Agriculture provides valuable insights into the state of agriculture in the country. To overcome the challenges identified and maximize the potential of the agricultural sector, concerted efforts are required from the government, private sector, and development partners. By promoting modernization, inclusivity, and diversification, Ghana can achieve sustainable agricultural growth and ensure food security for its population while creating opportunities for economic prosperity.
