Ghana Targets 10 Million Coconut Seedlings by 2028 to Boost Export Revenue

Ghana is positioning itself to become Africa's coconut export powerhouse, with ambitious plans to distribute 10 million improved coconut seedlings to farmers by 2028. This strategic initiative aims to double the country's coconut farming acreage from 90,000 to 180,000 acres, reinforcing Ghana's position as the continent's largest coconut producer and 12th globally.

Strategic Investment in Agricultural Innovation

The government's comprehensive approach combines modern farming techniques with value-added processing capabilities, targeting lucrative international markets through the Africa Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA). This US trade initiative offers zero-tariff access for African products, presenting a significant opportunity for Ghanaian coconut exports.

Dr Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives on Agriculture and Agribusiness, emphasized the transformative potential of coconut farming during a training program in Kumasi. "Coconut presents a powerful opportunity for wealth creation. It's not just another crop, it's a long-term investment that provides multiple income streams," he stated.

Comprehensive Training and Support Framework

The initiative includes extensive farmer education programs, with 500 coconut farmers and agricultural officers from Ashanti and Western North regions participating in the first training session. Participants learned advanced techniques including land preparation, soil treatment, planting methods, and pest control strategies.

The collaboration between government, Ghana EXIM Bank, and the Coconut Federation demonstrates a coordinated approach to agricultural development. Last year alone, the program distributed 3 million improved coconut seedlings to 2,000 farmers across 11 regions.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The coconut value chain offers exceptional economic potential, with every part of the plant generating revenue. From coconut oil and beverages to fibers, cosmetics, and animal feed, the crop creates multiple business opportunities along the entire production chain.

Ghana EXIM Bank's Deputy Project Manager Isaac Antwi-Arko highlighted the institution's commitment to supporting export growth. "We're planning to support factory establishments for value addition by the third year of this project," he announced, signaling significant industrial development prospects.

International Market Opportunities

The timing aligns perfectly with growing global demand for coconut products, particularly in health-conscious Western markets. Ghana's strategic focus on quality improvement and value addition positions the country to capture premium market segments while creating sustainable rural employment.

Rahman Taminu, Project Manager of Coconut Federation Ghana, stressed that success depends on proper implementation. "The true success lies not in seedling distribution but in how well farmers nurture and manage these seedlings for improved yield," he explained.

This initiative represents a model for African agricultural transformation, combining traditional farming with modern business practices to create sustainable economic growth and international competitiveness.