Ghana's Coconut Revolution: From 90,000 to 180,000 Acres by 2028

Ghana is positioning itself as Africa's coconut powerhouse with an ambitious expansion plan that could transform rural economies and create thousands of jobs. The government's strategic initiative aims to double coconut farming acreage from 90,000 to 180,000 acres by 2028, targeting 10 million seedlings distribution to farmers nationwide.

Strategic Partnership Drives Agricultural Innovation

This transformative project represents a collaboration between the government, Ghana EXIM Bank, and the Coconut Federation, demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships in driving agricultural modernization. Already, 500 farmers from Ashanti and Western North regions have participated in comprehensive training programs covering advanced cultivation techniques, pest management, and sustainable farming practices.

Dr Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives on Agriculture and Agribusiness, emphasized the crop's potential during the Kumasi training session: "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 from coconut oil to beverages, fibers, cosmetics, and animal feed."

Export Excellence Through AGOA Opportunities

The initiative strategically leverages the Africa Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA), offering Ghanaian coconut products zero-tariff access to US markets. This positions Ghana to capitalize on growing global demand for coconut-based products while strengthening the nation's export portfolio.

Ghana EXIM Bank's Deputy Project Manager, Isaac Antwi-Arko, confirmed institutional support: "We're committed to supporting value addition through factory establishments by the third year of this project. Our mandate is clear: improve Ghana's exports while reducing import dependency."

Comprehensive Value Chain Development

The government distributed 3 million improved coconut seedlings to 2,000 farmers in 2025 under the President's Initiative on the Coconut Value Chain. This foundation supports Ghana's current status as Africa's leading coconut producer and 12th globally, with projections for significant advancement in international rankings.

Rahman Taminu, Project Manager of Coconut Federation Ghana, highlighted the critical success factor: "True success depends not on seedling distribution but on how well farmers nurture and manage these investments to ensure high survival rates and improved yields."

Economic Impact and Rural Transformation

The coconut value chain offers unprecedented opportunities for rural communities, with every part of the coconut plant generating economic value. From traditional uses to modern applications in cosmetics and industrial products, this initiative promises sustainable income generation and job creation across multiple sectors.

As Ghana continues building its reputation as a business-friendly destination for agricultural investment, this coconut expansion demonstrates the nation's commitment to innovation-driven economic growth and strategic positioning in global markets.