Ghana is positioning oil palm as a key pillar for industrial growth, as stakeholders intensify efforts to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on traditional raw material exports.
With domestic demand for palm oil outstripping local production, the sector is emerging as one of the most promising drivers of industrial growth, offering major investment opportunities across the value chain.
“With rising global demand for palm oil and its by-products, Ghana’s oil palm sector presents a strategic opportunity to drive agro-industrialisation, create jobs, and boost export earnings,” said government and industry officials.
Transforming the Sector
Authorities emphasize that increased investment in large-scale plantations, modern processing facilities, and value addition can shift the sector from subsistence production to a competitive industrial value chain. The industry is expected to support manufacturing in food processing, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and bio-energy, while improving incomes for smallholder farmers.
Dr. Djono Albar Burhan, Head of International Affairs at the Indonesian Oil Palm Farmers Association, said:
“Innovation and modern technology are essential to transforming and modernising the palm oil industry.”
Dr. Isaac Danso, Director of the Oil Palm Research Institute (OPRI), noted:
“Persistent challenges continue to hinder the sector’s progress.”
Samuel Avaala, Managing Director of Benso Oil Palm Plantation (BOPP), called for:
“Stronger empowerment of youth and women to ensure sustainability.”
Dr. Alphonsus Inyang, National President of the National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria, added:
“A focused and intensified approach to oil palm development could help fight poverty and create wealth.”
Government Support and Investment
The Deputy Minister for Finance and Member of Parliament for Asuogyaman, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, highlighted the government’s commitment to the sector:
“We are calling for increased value addition in the tree crops sector to create jobs, boost exports, and support the economy. $5 million is expected to be invested in oil palm plantations between 2026 and 2032, with close collaboration between government and industry players to promote processing, investment, and sustainable growth across the value chain.”
Authorities believe that with the right policies, private sector participation, and improved access to financing, oil palm can play a critical role in Ghana’s industrial transformation agenda and strengthen long-term economic resilience.
Credit: Nana Achia Aboagye
