President assures Blue Skies of govt support
By Daniel NONOR, Nsawam – ER
The management of Blue Skies Ghana, a fruit processing company in Ghana, has outlined a number of challenges affecting their sustainability in the country and is seeking government assistance to address them.
Key among these challenges, according to the company’s management, are difficulties with land acquisition, including issues with land guards and illegal sand mining activities. Additionally, they highlighted challenges with airfreight and logistics, which are negatively impacting their operations in the country.
Furthermore, the company is requesting government support for inputs for outgrowers who supply their factories with fruits for processing.
These challenges were presented to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during his visit to the factory at Doboro near Nsawam in the Eastern Region yesterday.
The visit follows the recent exits of notable multinational companies from the Ghanaian market.
After being briefed about the operations and challenges facing the company, the President tasked the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryn Acheampong, and the Deputy Minister for Trade and Industries, Michael Okyere Baafi, to explore immediate solutions to the pressing challenges.
He emphasized the importance of companies like Blue Skies in driving economic growth and promoting environmental stewardship, praising the company for its efforts to support local farmers and community development.
“I am delighted to see the dedication and innovation displayed by Blue Skies,” noted the President.
In discussions with the company’s management, the President pledged the government’s commitment to assisting local businesses in thriving.
Managing Director of Blue Skies, Janet Lutterodt, highlighted the fiscal and energy challenges facing the country, affecting the company’s operations and ability to provide fair wages to its workers.
She also outlined challenges related to recent power supply interruptions across the country, contributing to the high cost of production for the fresh produce factory.
Expressing gratitude for the President’s visit, Blue Skies reiterated its mission to produce premium fresh fruit products while upholding sustainability and corporate responsibility standards.
The company’s management emphasized ongoing initiatives aimed at empowering local communities, promoting environmental conservation, and enhancing food security.
Chief Executive of Blue Skies Holdings, Hugh Pile, stated, “The intention to expand with new factories in Ghana simply means we are here to stay forever to partner government in playing an important part in the bid to crush poverty and to lift this economy and prospects for this great country.”
With a state-of-the-art facility employing over 4,000 people in Ghana, Blue Skies stands as one of the biggest employers in the private sector in the country.
