He made this announcement during his address at the CropLife Ghana Annual General Meeting for CEOs and Managing Directors, held at the Mensvic Grand Hotel in Accra.

According to Dr. Otokunor, the programme is designed to create thousands of stable employment opportunities for young people in the agricultural sector, particularly in high-value crops, poultry, and agro-processing.

“Youth unemployment is currently high, driven largely by limited job opportunities, inadequate skills training, and restricted access to arable land. This initiative is tailored to address these gaps by creating stable employment for the youth in commercial agriculture,” he said.

The Youth Agriculture Estate Programme is expected to generate 16,000 direct jobs, targeting key sectors in agriculture. It will operate under a unique model involving state-led and private sector-driven agricultural estates.

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Speaking at the CropLife Ghana Annual General Meeting for CEOs and Managing Directors in Accra, Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness, revealed details of the upcoming project aimed at transforming the kenaf industry.

Dr. Otokunor lamented how Ghana spends several millions of dollars importing jute sacks into the country.

“I must state that kenaf plants can be grown in every part of the country. On average, Ghana imports about 30 million jute sacks annually, which amounts to approximately 60 million dollars each year,” he said.

“What we’ve decided to do with the Jute Value Chain Development Initiative is to focus on developing the entire value chain. We are currently finalizing an agreement with private sector players to begin commercializing kenaf seed production,” he added.

“We’re looking at setting up cooperatives, providing them with training and input assistance so that we can produce kenaf fiber locally to feed the jute industry in Ghana.”

Dr Otokunor highlighted that the NDC stands out for its intellectual prowess and extensive governance experience.

“Everyone in Ghana knows that when it comes to depth and substance, the NDC is not lacking. In fact, the NDC is the only party in Ghana that excels in intellectual capacity.

“We have individuals who have seen it all, lived it, and consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of policy and the intricacies of running a government.

“This election is quite intriguing. It’s like comparing alcohol to water—you know which one burns your chest and which one doesn’t.

“The people of Ghana have experienced President Mahama’s governance. We’ve seen how he led the country over four years and the results of his administration,” he told Citi News.

Source: Adomonline

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