What's Happening?
John Dumelo, the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, has emphasized the importance of agriculture and value addition in Ghana's economic development. In a recent social media post, Dumelo highlighted the need for the country to
move beyond exporting raw agricultural materials and focus on adding value to these products. This approach, he argues, is crucial for increasing farmer incomes, creating jobs, and bolstering the national economy. During a visit to the West Akim Constituency, Dumelo engaged with local farmers to discuss modern farming practices and agribusiness opportunities. He also spoke to students at Asamankese Senior High School, encouraging them to see agriculture as a viable and profitable career path, rather than a last resort. Dumelo's visit was supported by Owen Kwame Frimpong, the Member of Parliament for Lower West Akim.
Why It's Important?
Dumelo's advocacy for value addition in agriculture is significant as it addresses a critical aspect of economic sustainability in Ghana. By focusing on value addition, Ghana can potentially increase its agricultural exports' profitability, reduce dependency on raw material exports, and enhance its competitive edge in the global market. This shift could lead to improved livelihoods for farmers, stimulate job creation, and contribute to the overall economic growth of the country. Encouraging the youth to engage in agriculture and agribusiness could also lead to innovation and modernization in the sector, further driving economic transformation.
What's Next?
The next steps following Dumelo's advocacy could involve policy initiatives aimed at supporting value addition in agriculture. This might include government incentives for agribusinesses, investment in agricultural technology, and educational programs to train young people in modern farming techniques. Stakeholders such as government agencies, educational institutions, and private sector players may collaborate to create a conducive environment for agribusiness growth. Monitoring the impact of these initiatives on the agricultural sector and the broader economy will be crucial in assessing their effectiveness.
