By Ashiadey Dotse
President John Dramani Mahama says his government’s vision is to build a self-reliant economy where Ghana produces, processes, exports, and consumes what it makes.
Speaking at the 2026 Ghana Agrotech Fair in Accra on Tuesday March 17, 2026, President Mahama stressed the need to shift the country’s focus from consumption to production and innovation.
He explained that this vision is aimed at creating a more productive, diversified, and resilient economy that can generate jobs and improve livelihoods.
“We seek an industrialisation agenda that is rooted not in consumption but in production and innovation,” he said, adding that Ghana must add value to what it produces and expand its export capacity.
The President noted that agriculture remains central to achieving this vision, describing it as a key driver of industrial transformation and economic growth.
According to him, agriculture should no longer be seen as a subsistence activity but as a modern, technology-driven sector capable of supporting industries and generating foreign exchange.
He said government is focused on strengthening agricultural value chains, expanding agro-processing, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving market access for farmers and agribusinesses.
President Mahama also highlighted the importance of local manufacturing of agricultural technologies, stating that Ghana must reduce its dependence on imported machinery and systems.
“Supporting local agritech will help create jobs, build our industrial base, and retain value within the national economy,” he added.
He further called on investors and financial institutions to support agribusiness, describing it as a viable and scalable sector.
The President also encouraged young people to explore opportunities in modern agriculture, noting that the sector now requires skills in engineering, data science, logistics, and innovation.
He commended organisers of the Agrotech Fair, including the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Agribusiness and the Ghana Export-Import Bank, for creating a platform that connects research, industry, and investment.
