Mango and rubber have emerged as investment-ready commodities as Ghana steps up efforts to expand exports and industrialise its tree crops sector.
At the Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition, stakeholders highlighted the two crops as strategic drivers of export growth, agro-processing, and long-term economic stability.
Mango: High-Value Export Opportunity
Mango was presented as a high-value horticultural crop with strong export potential, offering opportunities across commercial farming, processing, and export logistics to meet rising global demand.
The Managing Director of GCB PLC, Farihan Alhassan, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to the sector.
“GCB remains committed to providing financial solutions that support production, processing, and export within the tree crops industry,” she said.
“Our goal is to empower farmers, agribusinesses, and exporters while driving rural development, job creation, and agro-industrial growth.”
She encouraged stakeholders to leverage GCB’s financing options to expand operations and strengthen value chains across the sector.
Adding to the discussion, the Managing Director of HPW Fresh and Dry Ltd, James Obeng, called on women to take advantage of opportunities in mango cultivation.
“Mango farming offers strong income potential, export opportunities, and value addition through processing,” he noted.
“Greater female participation will not only improve household incomes but also strengthen Ghana’s agricultural value chain.”
He urged women to tap into improved seedlings, extension services, and expanding markets, describing mango cultivation as a pathway to economic empowerment and job creation.
Rubber: Long-Term Stability and Industrial Linkages
Rubber was identified as a long-term investment crop, providing stable returns while supporting key industries such as manufacturing and construction.
A rubber exporter, Anita Kontuo, called on the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) to establish a dedicated support fund for new entrants.
“Access to affordable and timely financing remains one of the biggest barriers to entry, especially for rubber farming which requires significant initial investment,” she said.
“A dedicated fund will encourage more youth and women to venture into the sector and strengthen Ghana’s export capacity.”
Call for Stronger Partnerships
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, stressed the need for collaboration across the value chain.
“Investors, processors, researchers, development partners, and farmers must work together to improve quality standards, increase value addition, and expand market access,” he stated.
He added that stronger partnerships among government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, and private investors are essential to achieving inclusive, sustainable, and transparent growth in the tree crops sector.
Summit Marks Major Milestone
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of the TCDA, Dr Andy Osei Okrah, described the maiden summit as a significant milestone.
“The Summit provides a strategic platform to celebrate achievements, showcase sector potential, and attract critical investment,” he said.
“By bringing together key stakeholders, we are laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger contributions to national development.”
Awards and Outlook
A key highlight of the event was the maiden Tree Crops Excellence Awards, which recognised individuals and institutions demonstrating excellence, innovation, and measurable impact in the industry.
Together, mango and rubber were presented as central to Ghana’s strategy to diversify exports, create jobs, and attract sustained private sector investment, reinforcing the country’s drive toward a resilient and competitive tree crops economy.
Credit: Nana Achiaa Aboagye
