Youth must turn to farming for real opportunity – Agriculture Minister

The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has made a strong appeal to Ghanaian youth to take advantage of the vast opportunities within the agricultural sector, saying farming remains one of the most profitable and sustainable ventures in the country.

He made the remarks during the dedication of the Apostle Clement Brakatu Temple of the Apostles’ Continuation Church International in Sunyani, where he addressed congregants and community members on the economic relevance of agriculture.

Mr. Opoku said misconceptions surrounding farming have contributed to rising youth unemployment, stating that the belief that farming is meant for the poor is not only false but harmful to national development.

According to him, many of the country’s most successful individuals are heavily involved in agriculture, noting that President John Dramani Mahama is currently the largest farmer in Ghana, with significant cultivation of maize, onions, and rice.

The minister explained that the country cannot continue depending on imports when Ghana has the capacity to feed itself. He expressed concern over the nation’s reliance on tomatoes from Burkina Faso, which costs Ghana over $400 million annually. That money, he said, could be channelled into establishing factories and expanding job opportunities if the local agricultural sector is strengthened.

To transform the sector, Mr. Opoku said government has rolled out the Feed Ghana Programme, an initiative designed to modernise agriculture, boost food production, and encourage backyard gardening to enhance household food security.

He added that senior high schools are being encouraged to venture into farming as part of the programme, enabling institutions to support their feeding systems while exposing students to the business potential of agriculture.

Mr. Opoku revealed that farming has personally benefited him, noting that many current and former government officials, including Members of Parliament, are now actively engaged in agriculture because of its profitability.

Despite Ghana’s vast fertile lands, he lamented that only a small portion is being utilised, forcing the country to import produce such as tomatoes and onions from neighbouring countries. He urged the youth to rethink their attitudes toward farming and position themselves to benefit from the growing demand for locally produced food.

Meanwhile, the MP for Sunyani East, Seid Mubarak, praised the church for the construction and dedication of the new temple, describing it as a reflection of the role religious institutions continue to play in shaping society.