Ghana's horticultural sector is evolving into an engine for economic development, food security, and export diversification. As global demand for fresh and processed horticultural products rises, Ghana aims to become a leading player in the global horticulture market. This sector, spanning fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs, is enhancing livelihoods and playing a role in achieving the government's vision of a 24-hour economy.
The agricultural sector accounts for about 20% of Ghana's GDP, with horticulture's share increasing due to strong global and domestic demand. According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), the non-traditional exports sector, driven largely by horticulture, generated USD 3.8 billion in 2023, with crops like mangoes, pineapples, coconuts, and chili peppers contributing significantly.
Horticulture is a key job creator. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture estimates that over 1.5 million Ghanaians are directly employed in horticultural value chains, with women comprising more than 52% of the workforce. From smallholder farmers to packhouse workers, the sector empowers rural communities, particularly women and youth.
The government's drive toward a 24-hour economy, announced in the 2025 budget statement, seeks to harness continuous productivity across strategic sectors, including agriculture. The horticultural sector offers opportunities under this framework. With modern packhouses, cold chain logistics, irrigation systems, and agro-processing facilities operating in shifts, horticulture is suited to function beyond daylight hours.
Beyond economic metrics, the real story of Ghana's horticultural success lies in its ability to empower people. According to the African Development Bank, women-led agribusinesses across Africa have the potential to increase agricultural output by up to 30%, and Ghana is no exception. Strategic support, youth-led start-ups in greenhouse farming, fruit processing, and digital agri-tech continue to open new paths for wealth creation and development.
President of the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Davies Narh Korboe, highlights the role of horticulture beyond export numbers. "Horticulture is not just about growing fruits and vegetables; it's a game-changer in our quest to empower rural livelihoods, reduce poverty, and build resilient communities," he says. "We must support it with infrastructure, innovation, and policy commitment."
Korboe noted that the upcoming Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025, scheduled for June 11-13, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Center, will spotlight these opportunities.
Source: CNR