Tree crops can earn Ghana $12bn annually – TCDA CEO
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), Dr Andy Osei Okrah, has urged strategic investment in Ghana’s six key tree crops to create jobs and boost the economy.
Dr Osei Okrah highlighted that with adequate support, Ghana could earn USD12 billion annually from crops such as coconut, shea butter, mango, oil palm, rubber and cashew.
In a recent media interview, Dr Okrah emphasised the importance of shifting focus beyond cocoa to these tree crops, which have the potential to radically transform Ghana’s financial landscape.
“If we invest well and increase production and productivity in these six selected crops, the economy will be transformed,” he said.
Dr Okrah noted that coconut alone holds tremendous promise, given its widespread consumption in Ghana, while oil palm is described as “real gold” for the country.
By producing and adding value locally, Ghana can generate significant foreign exchange earnings and create numerous jobs.
“From nursery rehabilitation and seedlings to the final product, the value chain provides employment opportunities across multiple levels. This sector has immense potential for job creation and economic value addition,” Dr Okrah stressed.
He further stated that with proper infrastructure and capital investment, an average of USD2 billion annually from each crop is achievable, totalling USD12 billion annually from the six crops combined.
This level of revenue generation, he asserted, could fundamentally restructure the economy.
Dr Okrah concluded by calling for increased awareness and focus on the tree crop sector, emphasising its critical role in job creation and contribution to Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
