Africa Center For Business Incubation

30/10/2025

The African Centre for Business Incubation (ACBI), in partnership with the World University Service of Canada (WUSC), successfully conducted a Training of Trainers (ToT) session on Environment and Climate Change (ECC) considerations for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and training institutions in Sunyani from October 26th to 30th, 2025. Led by Dr. Christian Sewordor Mensah, the Executive Director of ACBI, and facilitated by Mr. Obed Samah, the ECC Lead/Specialist at WUSC, the five-day training program equipped 26 participants with the knowledge and skills to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and sustainability principles into their organizations.

The training aimed to build the capacity of facilitators from SMEs and training institutions to train their respective organizations' staff, faculty, or members on ECC considerations. These trained facilitators will serve as green ambassadors, promoting the adoption of sustainable practices across various sectors. The initiative is part of the ACTIVATE project implemented by WUSC, which focuses on mainstreaming environment and climate change considerations into existing short courses. The training is aligned with the Competency-Based Curriculum implemented by the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET).

During the training, Dr. Mensah emphasized that this initiative is a movement to protect the future of the next generation and encouraged all stakeholders to get involved. The training will be replicated nationwide, underscoring the project's commitment to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. By building the capacity of facilitators and institutions, the ACTIVATE project is poised to make a lasting impact on Ghana's development trajectory.

The partnership between ACBI and WUSC demonstrates their shared commitment to promoting sustainable development and environmental sustainability in Ghana. Through initiatives like the ACTIVATE project, they aim to create a positive impact on the environment, society, and the economy.

07/10/2025

ICESDA 2025 is not only loaded with inspirational and thought-provoking presentations but also loaded with five (5) high impact panel discussions from seasoned experts. Panel 1 will devote efforts to discuss the topic *"Accelerating Progress: Efforts towards Achieving Ghana's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)"* Visit https://icesda.greencommunitiesgh.com/registration to register or Call +233 (0) 243 555 882/+233 (0) 546245325/+233 (0) 244664741

07/07/2025

Join the movement

06/07/2025

Corporate Governance in SMEs and Family Businesses in Africa: The Quiet Revolution Powering Sustainable Enterprise
By: Christian Sewordor Mensah, PhD.

It begins, as many African stories do, with a family. A father, once a subsistence farmer in northern Ghana, builds a modest agribusiness over two decades. His children, educated in Accra and Kumasi, return with dreams of scaling the enterprise into a regional powerhouse. But as the patriarch ages, tensions rise. Who will lead? How will decisions be made? What happens when tradition meets ambition?
This is not an isolated tale. Across Africa, family-owned businesses and SMEs form the economic bedrock, employing millions, feeding cities, and driving innovation. Yet, beneath their dynamism lies a fragile foundation: the absence of structured corporate governance.
The Unseen Backbone of Africa’s Economy
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and family businesses account for over 90% of businesses and more than 60% of employment in many African countries. From agro-processing cooperatives in Côte d’Ivoire to textile workshops in Ethiopia, they are the pulse of local economies. But their informality, while once a strength, is becoming a liability in a rapidly globalizing world.
Many of these enterprises operate without boards, succession plans, or financial transparency. Decisions are made around kitchen tables, not boardrooms. Records are kept in notebooks, not cloud systems. And when founders exit, through retirement, illness, or death—many businesses falter, unable to navigate the transition.
Why Governance Matters Now More governance is often Than Ever
Corporate misunderstood as a luxury for large corporations. But in reality, it is a survival tool—especially for SMEs and family enterprises. Good governance provides:
• Strategic clarity: Clear roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes reduce internal conflict and improve agility.
• Investor confidence: Transparent operations and financial discipline attract capital and partnerships.
• Sustainability: Governance structures ensure continuity beyond the founder’s vision or lifespan.
• Scalability: Formal systems enable businesses to expand across regions and borders.
In the absence of governance, businesses become vulnerable to internal disputes, regulatory penalties, and market shocks. The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare these vulnerabilities, with many informal enterprises unable to access relief due to lack of documentation or registration.
The Cultural Complexity of Governance in Africa
Implementing governance in African SMEs is not merely a technical challenge, it is a cultural negotiation. Family businesses often intertwine kinship, tradition, and community obligations. Introducing formal boards or external audits can be seen as intrusive or mistrustful.
Yet, change is happening. In Kenya, family constitutions are gaining traction, documents that blend traditional values with modern governance principles. In Nigeria, SMEs are adopting advisory boards composed of respected elders and industry experts. In Ghana, institutions like the Centre for Corporate Governance are training entrepreneurs in ethical leadership and compliance.
These innovations are not about importing Western models wholesale. They are about crafting governance frameworks that are culturally resonant, contextually relevant, and economically empowering.
Ghana’s Governance Awakening
Ghana offers a compelling case study. With a vibrant SME sector and a growing middle class, the country is at a governance crossroads. The Registrar-General’s Department has streamlined business registration, while the Ghana Enterprises Agency is promoting formalization and capacity building.
In the agriculture sector, family-owned agribusinesses are beginning to adopt governance practices that blend traditional leadership with modern accountability. Some are forming cooperatives with elected boards. Others are digitizing their operations to improve transparency and traceability, critical for export markets and ESG compliance.
These shifts align with broader national and continental goals, including Ghana’s Coordinated Programme of Economic and Social Development Policies (CPESDP), the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
ICESDA 2025: A Platform for Governance Transformation
The International Conference on Entrepreneurship, Skills Development, and Agribusiness (ICESDA) 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment. As Africa reimagines its development trajectory post-pandemic, ICESDA offers a platform to elevate governance as a cornerstone of enterprise sustainability.
Through keynote sessions, policy dialogues, and case study showcases, ICESDA can:
• Illuminate successful governance models in SMEs and family businesses
• Facilitate cross-border learning and harmonization of governance codes
• Promote ESG-aligned practices that attract sustainable investment
• Inspire youth and women entrepreneurs to embed governance from the start
More importantly, ICESDA can shift the narrative, from governance as bureaucracy to governance as empowerment.
The Road Ahead: From Informality to Institutional Strength
To institutionalize governance in Africa’s SME and family business landscape, a multi-pronged approach is needed:
1. Education and awareness: Embed governance principles in TVET, business schools, and entrepreneurship programs.
2. Incentivization: Offer tax breaks, procurement preferences, or access to finance for businesses that adopt governance frameworks.
3. Mentorship and peer learning: Create networks where seasoned entrepreneurs mentor emerging ones on governance.
4. Localization of standards: Develop sector-specific governance codes that reflect local realities and values.
5. Policy coherence: Align national policies with regional and continental frameworks to create an enabling environment.
Conclusion: A Legacy Worth Building
Corporate governance is not about control, it is about continuity. It is the bridge between a founder’s dream and a founder’s dream and a generational legacy. For family businesses, it is the difference between fleeting success and enduring impact.
As we look toward ICESDA 2025, let us champion governance not as a foreign imposition, but as an African innovation. Let us tell the stories of businesses that thrived because they dared to structure. And let us build an enterprise ecosystem where sustainability is not the exception, but the norm.
Because in the quiet revolution of governance lies the future of African enterprise.

You can register for ICESDA 2025 through the following official platforms:
Official Registration Links:
• KNUST Events Portal: ICESDA 2025 Registration & Event Details
• eGotickets (for ticketing and local access): ICESDA Conference on eGotickets
• 10Times Conference Listing: ICESDA 2025 on 10Times
Event Details:
• Dates: October 23–24, 2025
• Venue: GIMPA Executive Conference Center, Accra, Ghana
• Theme: Environment, Social, Governance and Sustainable Development of Africa

04/07/2025

Global Collaborations and Knowledge Sharing: A Narrative for Africa’s Sustainable Future

I often reflect on a simple truth: knowledge, when shared, becomes power multiplied. In my journey advocating for ESG integration and sustainable development across Africa, I’ve witnessed how the right partnerships, rooted in trust, mutual respect, and shared purpose—can transform not just institutions, but entire communities.
One model that continues to inspire me is the work of Purdue University and the SAWBO (Scientific Animations Without Borders) initiative. What began as a modest effort to translate expert knowledge into animated videos has grown into a global movement. These animations, available in over 280 language variants, have reached millions, from farmers in Kenya to health workers in Bangladesh. In Benin, I learned of farmers who, after watching a SAWBO video on neem-based pest control, adopted the practice and saw their yields improve dramatically. No expensive consultants. No complex manuals. Just accessible, visual knowledge, delivered in a language they understood.
This is the power of global collaboration and knowledge sharing. It’s not about one side giving and the other receiving. It’s about co-creation. It’s about recognizing that innovation doesn’t only reside in Silicon Valley or Geneva, it thrives in the cocoa farms of Ghana, the tech hubs of Nairobi, and the classrooms of Accra.
Africa is brimming with potential. We have the youngest population in the world, vast natural resources, and a growing appetite for innovation. Yet, too many of our youth feel compelled to migrate, not out of choice, but out of necessity. They leave behind families, communities, and dreams, chasing opportunities that should exist right here at home.
What if we could change that narrative?
What if, through strategic global partnerships, we could equip our youth with the skills to thrive in green economies? What if we could connect our farmers to climate-smart technologies, our entrepreneurs to global markets, and our institutions to cutting-edge ESG frameworks?
This is the vision behind ICESDA 2025, the International Conference on Environment, Social, Governance and Sustainable Development of Africa. Together with Green Communities International, KNUST, GIMPA, and SIGA, we are building a platform where ideas meet action. A space where policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, and development partners can come together—not just to talk, but to build.
At ICESDA, we will explore how ESG principles can be embedded in public institutions. We’ll spotlight youth-led innovations in agriculture, construction, and tourism. We’ll examine how indigenous knowledge systems can inform modern sustainability practices. And we’ll ask the hard questions: How do we ensure that knowledge doesn’t just sit in reports, but reaches the people who need it most?
To get there, we must be bold. We must invest in digital learning platforms that transcend borders and literacy barriers. We must foster South-South collaborations that celebrate African ingenuity. And we must ensure that every partnership, whether with a university in the U.S. or a startup in Kigali, is grounded in equity and shared value.
Africa’s future will not be built in isolation. It will be built through collaboration, through the deliberate, strategic sharing of knowledge, tools, and hope. As we prepare for ICESDA 2025, I invite all who believe in this vision to join us. Let us reimagine what’s possible. Let us build a continent where migration is a choice, not a necessity. Where jobs are created not by chance, but by design. And where sustainability is not a slogan, but a lived reality.
Because when we share knowledge, we don’t just inform, we empower. And when we collaborate, we don’t just connect, we transform.
As I travel across Ghana and engage with stakeholders, from local farmers in Oyibi to policymakers in Accra. I’m reminded that the solutions we seek are often already within reach. What’s missing is not ingenuity, but infrastructure. Not ambition, but access. And this is where global knowledge partnerships become not just helpful, but essential.
Take, for instance, the young agripreneur in Tamale who has developed a low-cost irrigation system using recycled materials. Or the women’s cooperative in the Volta Region that’s turning cassava waste into biodegradable packaging. These are not isolated success stories, they are signals of a continent ready to lead. But without platforms to share these innovations, without networks to scale them, their impact remains local when it could be continental.
This is why I believe so deeply in the power of knowledge ecosystems. Imagine a digital hub where a student in Kumasi can access ESG training developed in partnership with Purdue University. Where a policymaker in Nairobi can learn from Ghana’s experience integrating sustainability into public procurement. Where a startup in Lagos can collaborate with researchers in Cape Town to co-develop climate-resilient technologies. This is not a dream, it is a blueprint for transformation.
But to realize this vision, we must also confront the structural barriers that limit knowledge flow. Language, digital access, institutional silos, these are not minor inconveniences; they are systemic challenges that require systemic solutions. That’s why at ICESDA 2025, we are not just convening a conference, we are cultivating a movement. A movement to democratize knowledge. To localize global insights. To ensure that every young African, regardless of geography or background, can participate in shaping the future.
And let us be clear: this is not about charity. It is about shared destiny. The climate crisis, economic volatility, and social inequality are not confined by borders. When Africa thrives, the world benefits. When we invest in African innovation, we invest in global resilience.
I often say that sustainability is not a destination, it is a discipline. It requires us to think long-term, to act collectively, and to lead with humility. It challenges us to listen more than we speak, to learn as much as we teach. And above all, it calls us to build bridges, between sectors, between nations, between generations.
As we look ahead to ICESDA 2025, I am filled with cautious optimism. Not because the challenges are small, they are not. But because I have seen what is possible when we come together with purpose. I have seen how a simple animation can change farming practices. How a conversation can spark a partnership. How a shared vision can ignite a movement.
So let us move forward, not as isolated actors, but as a united force for good. Let us invest in the power of knowledge, the promise of collaboration, and the potential of every African to lead. Because the future we want is not only possible, it is already being built, one shared idea at a time.
And it begins with us.
You can register for ICESDA 2025 through the following official platforms:
Official Registration Links:
• KNUST Events Portal: ICESDA 2025 Registration & Event Details
• eGotickets (for ticketing and local access): ICESDA Conference on eGotickets
• 10Times Conference Listing: ICESDA 2025 on 10Times
Event Details:
• Dates: October 23–24, 2025
• Venue: GIMPA Executive Conference Center, Accra, Ghana
• Theme: Environment, Social, Governance and Sustainable Development of Africa

19/04/2025

Agricultural Sector Skills Body Partners MAPHLIX LTD To Revolutionize Skills Development In Ghana’s Agriculture Industry

The Agricultural Sector Skills Body (ASSB) has taken a significant step towards enhancing skills development in Ghana's agriculture industry by pa ...

13/04/2025

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdK-Ig3RvrujhtzZkYGw5QgUBeDxCR9Dhv70MK_xc4rU-Hg6g/viewform?usp=preview

12/04/2025

Unlocking Job Opportunities in Ghana's Mining and Agricultural Sectors: By Dr. Christian Sewordor Mensah

Ghana's mining sector has long been a significant contributor to the country's economy. However, the sector's potential to create jobs and stimulate economic growth has been hindered by challenges such as illegal mining (galamsey) and environmental degradation. To address these challenges and unlock the sector's potential, a new approach is needed. One potential solution is to promote sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development.

The Current State of Mining in Ghana
Ghana's mining sector is a significant contributor to the country's economy, accounting for approximately 6% of GDP and 40% of foreign exchange earnings. The sector is dominated by large-scale mining companies, but small-scale mining also plays an important role. However, the sector's potential to create jobs and stimulate economic growth has been hindered by challenges such as illegal mining (galamsey) and environmental degradation.

The Potential of Sustainable Small-Scale Mining
Sustainable small-scale mining can create enormous job opportunities for players in the value chain. According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), the mining sector can create up to 3 jobs for every 1 job directly employed in mining operations. By promoting sustainable small-scale mining, Ghana can unlock the potential of its mining sector and create new job opportunities for its citizens.

The Role of GoldBod
GoldBod, the sole purchaser of gold in Ghana, can play a critical role in promoting sustainable small-scale mining. By providing prefinances and deductions to miners who adhere to sustainable practices, GoldBod can incentivize miners to adopt environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices. This can help to reduce the environmental and social impacts of mining, while also promoting economic growth and job creation.

Land Reclamation and Agricultural Development
One key component of sustainable small-scale mining is land reclamation. By reclaiming mined lands and converting them into agricultural lands, Ghana can promote sustainable agriculture and reduce environmental degradation. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), agriculture is a significant source of employment in Ghana, accounting for approximately 40% of the country's workforce. By promoting agricultural development, Ghana can create new job opportunities for its citizens and stimulate economic growth.

Job Creation Potential
The potential for job creation in Ghana's mining and agricultural sectors is enormous. According to the Ghana Statistical Service, the mining sector employs approximately 40,000 people directly, while indirectly supporting an additional 120,000 jobs. The agricultural sector employs millions of people, and by promoting sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development, Ghana can create new job opportunities for its citizens and stimulate economic growth.

Benefits of Sustainable Small-Scale Mining and Agricultural Development
The benefits of sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development in Ghana are numerous. Some of the benefits include:

Job Creation: Sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development can create new job opportunities for Ghana's citizens, reducing unemployment and poverty.
Economic Growth: By promoting sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development, Ghana can stimulate economic growth and increase its GDP.
Environmental Sustainability: Sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development can reduce environmental degradation and promote sustainable land use practices.
Social Responsibility: By promoting sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development, Ghana can promote social responsibility and reduce the negative impacts of mining on local communities.

Challenges and Opportunities
While there are many benefits to sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development, there are also challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed. Some of the challenges include:

Lack of Infrastructure: Ghana's mining and agricultural sectors lack adequate infrastructure, including roads, storage facilities, and equipment.
Limited Access to Finance: Small-scale miners and farmers often have limited access to finance, making it difficult for them to invest in sustainable practices.
Environmental Degradation: Mining and agricultural activities can result in environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution.

Despite these challenges, there are many opportunities for sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development in Ghana. Some of the opportunities include:

Growing Demand for Sustainable Products*: There is a growing demand for sustainable products, including sustainably sourced gold and agricultural products.
Increasing Investment: Ghana is attracting increasing investment in its mining and agricultural sectors, which can help to promote sustainable development.
Government Support: The Ghanaian government is committed to promoting sustainable development and has implemented policies and programs to support sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the development of the inland port in Yagaba and the promotion of sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development in Ghana have the potential to create enormous job opportunities for players in the value chain. By promoting sustainable practices and investing in infrastructure, Ghana can unlock the potential of its mining and agricultural sectors, stimulate economic growth, and improve the lives of its citizens.

Future Outlook
The future outlook for Ghana's mining and agricultural sectors is promising. With the right policies and incentives in place, Ghana can promote sustainable development and create a brighter future for its citizens. Some potential areas for future development include:

Increasing Investment: Ghana can increase investment in its mining and agricultural sectors, promoting sustainable development and job creation.
Improving Infrastructure: Ghana can improve its infrastructure, including roads, storage facilities, and equipment, to support sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development.
Promoting Sustainable Practices: Ghana can promote sustainable practices, including environmental sustainability and social responsibility, to reduce the negative impacts of mining and agricultural activities.
By promoting sustainable development and investing in its mining and agricultural sectors, Ghana can create a brighter future for its citizens and become a model for sustainable development in Africa.

Call to Action
We urge policymakers, investors, and stakeholders to support the development of the inland port in Yagaba and the promotion of sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development in Ghana. Together, we can:
Unlock Economic Potential: By investing in Ghana's mining and agricultural sectors, we can unlock the country's economic potential and promote sustainable development.
Create Jobs: By promoting sustainable small-scale mining and agricultural development, we can create new job opportunities for Ghana's citizens and stimulate economic growth.
Promote Sustainable Practices: By promoting sustainable practices, we can reduce the negative impacts of mining and agricultural activities and promote environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
Let's work together to promote sustainable development and create a brighter future for Ghana's citizens.

[email protected]
÷233546245325

12/01/2025

Optimising Ministerial Roles: Why MOFAs leadership trumps MOTI in driving Agribusiness growth.

I. Introduction

Ghana's agricultural sector has long been recognized as a vital component of the country's economy, providing employment, income, and food security for millions of citizens. As the country strives to achieve middle-income status, the need to optimize the sector's potential has become increasingly urgent. Recent efforts to realign ministerial roles have sparked intense debate, particularly with regards to the oversight of agribusiness development. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI) have both been touted as potential leads, but a closer examination reveals that MOFA's leadership is better equipped to drive agribusiness growth.
The proposed ministerial realignment submitted to Parliament presents an opportune moment to re-evaluate the roles and responsibilities of various ministries and ensure they align with the country's development priorities. As stakeholders weigh the options, it is essential to consider the comparative advantages of MOFA and MOTI in driving agribusiness development. This article argues that MOFA's leadership is critical to unlocking the full potential of Ghana's agribusiness sector, and that optimizing ministerial roles in this regard is essential for achieving the country's economic development goals.

II. The Case for MOFA's Leadership

The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) has a clear and well-defined mandate to lead Ghana's agricultural sector. As the primary government agency responsible for developing and executing policies, programs, projects, and strategies for the agricultural sector, MOFA plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture and thriving agribusiness.
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) has a clear mandate to develop and execute policies, programs, and strategies for the agricultural sector in Ghana. As the lead government agency responsible for the sector, MOFA's primary objective is to promote sustainable agriculture and thriving agribusiness through research, technology development, and effective extension services.
MOFA's mandate is rooted in its mission to develop and execute policies, programs, and projects that promote agricultural growth and development. The ministry is responsible for developing and implementing policies to support the agricultural sector, coordinating plans and programs, administering and managing sector programs and projects, and preparing annual budgets for the agricultural sector.
MOFA was established under the Civil Service Act (CSA) 1960, and its mandate is further reinforced by other legal instruments, including the Agriculture Act of 1961. As the lead agency responsible for the agricultural sector, MOFA has developed policies and strategies that address national goals, such as the Food and Agriculture Sector Development Policy (FASDEP).
Overall, MOFA's clear mandate and range of functions make it the ideal agency to lead Ghana's agricultural sector.
MOFA's existing infrastructure:
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) has a well-established infrastructure that supports its mandate to promote agricultural development in Ghana. Over the years, MOFA has developed a comprehensive network of institutions, programs, and projects that provide critical support to farmers, agribusinesses, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
MOFA's existing infrastructure includes a nationwide network of agricultural extension agents who provide technical advice and support to farmers. These extension agents are trained to provide guidance on best practices in crop and animal production, soil management, and pest control, among other areas. According to MOFA's 2020 Annual Report, the ministry has a total of 3,500 agricultural extension agents deployed across the country, with a farmer-to-extension agent ratio of 1:500.
In addition to its extension services, MOFA also has a number of research institutions that conduct studies and develop new technologies to improve agricultural productivity and efficiency. These research institutions include the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Savannah Agricultural Research Institute (SARI), and the Crop Research Institute (CRI), among others. According to a report by the CSIR, these research institutions have developed a number of innovative technologies and practices that have improved crop yields, reduced post-harvest losses, and enhanced the overall competitiveness of Ghana's agricultural sector.
MOFA also has a number of programs and projects that provide financial and technical support to farmers and agribusinesses. These programs include the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), the Agricultural Insurance Program, and the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program, among others. According to a report by the ADB, these programs have provided critical support to farmers and agribusinesses, enabling them to increase their productivity, improve their incomes, and enhance their overall competitiveness.
MOFA's technical expertise:
Technical Expertise
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) boasts a wealth of technical expertise in agriculture and agribusiness, making it the ideal lead agency for driving growth in the sector. With a strong foundation in agricultural research, extension services, and policy development, MOFA's technical capacity is unparalleled.
Agricultural Research
MOFA has a long history of conducting research in various areas of agriculture, including crop and animal production, soil science, and agricultural engineering. The ministry's research institutions, such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Savannah Agricultural Research Institute (SARI), have developed innovative technologies and practices that have improved agricultural productivity and efficiency.
Extension Services
MOFA's extension services play a critical role in disseminating research findings and technologies to farmers and other stakeholders. The ministry's extension agents work closely with farmers to identify their needs, provide training and support, and facilitate access to inputs and markets.
Policy Development
MOFA has a strong policy development capacity, which enables it to develop and implement policies that promote agricultural growth and development. The ministry works closely with other stakeholders, including farmers, processors, and traders, to develop policies that are responsive to their needs.
Human Resource Capacity
MOFA has a large pool of highly skilled and experienced professionals, including agricultural scientists, economists, and extension agents. The ministry's staffs have undergone extensive training and have acquired expertise in various areas of agriculture and agribusiness.

III. MOTI's Limitations
MOTI's primary focus:

The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI) has a distinct mandate that focuses primarily on promoting Ghana's trade and industrial development. As the lead agency responsible for formulating and implementing policies to drive economic growth through trade and industry, MOTI's primary focus is on creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
MOTI's core functions include developing and implementing policies to promote trade, investment, and industrial development; providing support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); and facilitating Ghana's participation in regional and international trade agreements. The ministry's work is centered on promoting economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction through the development of a competitive and diversified industrial sector.
Given its primary focus on trade and industry, MOTI's expertise and resources are largely concentrated on promoting Ghana's trade interests, supporting business development, and driving industrial growth. While MOTI plays a critical role in Ghana's economic development, its primary focus on trade and industry limits its capacity to effectively oversee agribusiness development, which requires specialized technical expertise and a deep understanding of the agricultural sector.
MOTI's lack of agricultural expertise:
The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI) lacks the specialized technical expertise required to effectively oversee agribusiness development. While MOTI has a strong track record of promoting Ghana's trade and industrial development, its expertise is largely concentrated in areas such as trade policy, business development, and industrial growth. In contrast, agribusiness development requires a deep understanding of agricultural production, processing, and marketing, as well as expertise in areas such as soil science, crop protection, and animal health.
MOTI's limited agricultural expertise is evident in its organizational structure, which is geared towards promoting trade and industry rather than agriculture. The ministry's departments and agencies are primarily focused on trade facilitation, business development, and industrial growth, with little emphasis on agricultural development. Furthermore, MOTI's staff are largely composed of trade and industry professionals, rather than agricultural specialists.
This lack of agricultural expertise would hinder MOTI's ability to effectively oversee agribusiness development, particularly in areas such as agricultural research, extension services, and policy development. For instance, MOTI would struggle to develop and implement policies that promote agricultural productivity and efficiency, or to provide technical support to farmers and agribusinesses. In contrast, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) has the specialized expertise and resources required to effectively oversee agribusiness development, making it the more suitable agency for this role.
MOTI's potential conflict of interest:
The Ministry of Trade and Industry's (MOTI) oversight of agribusiness development could potentially create conflicts of interest, undermining the effectiveness of its role. As the lead agency responsible for promoting Ghana's trade and industrial development, MOTI has a mandate to support the growth of various industries, including those that may compete with or have conflicting interests with agribusiness.
For instance, MOTI may be required to promote the interests of the manufacturing sector, which could lead to policies that favor industrial development over agricultural growth. Similarly, MOTI's support for the growth of Ghana's export-oriented industries could lead to conflicts with the needs of domestic agribusinesses. Such conflicts of interest could compromise MOTI's ability to make objective decisions that promote the growth and development of agribusiness.
Furthermore, MOTI's close relationships with industry stakeholders could also create conflicts of interest. As the ministry works to promote the interests of various industries, it may be tempted to favor the needs of its closest stakeholders over those of agribusiness. This could lead to policies and programs that benefit a select few at the expense of the broader agribusiness sector.
In contrast, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) has a clear and focused mandate to promote agricultural growth and development, without the potential conflicts of interest that may arise from MOTI's broader industry-focused mandate. This makes MOFA better suited to oversee agribusiness development and ensure that policies and programs are designed to benefit the sector as a whole.

IV. Benefits of MOFA's Leadership

Enhanced Food Security
Enhanced food security is a critical benefit of MOFA's leadership in driving agribusiness growth in Ghana. With MOFA at the helm, Ghana can make significant strides in increasing food production and security.
According to the 2020 Comprehensive Food Security and Vulnerability Analysis findings, about 11.7% of Ghana's population, equivalent to 3.6 million people, is food insecure ¹. This underscores the need for effective leadership in addressing food security challenges.
MOFA's leadership can enhance food security in several ways. Firstly, the ministry's technical expertise and existing infrastructure can support the development of sustainable agricultural practices, leading to increased crop yields and improved food availability. For instance, MOFA's initiatives, such as the Sustain Africa ETG Fertilizer Initiative, aim to promote sustainable agriculture and enhance food security ².
Secondly, MOFA's focus on agricultural development can help address the root causes of food insecurity, such as limited access to fertile land, inadequate irrigation systems, and lack of access to markets. By addressing these challenges, MOFA can help ensure that Ghanaian farmers have the resources they need to produce food sustainably and efficiently.
Lastly, MOFA's leadership can help attract investment in the agricultural sector, leading to improved food security. With a clear focus on agricultural development, MOFA can provide a coherent and compelling vision for investors, leading to increased investment in the sector.
MOFA's leadership is crucial for enhancing food security in Ghana. With its technical expertise, existing infrastructure, and focus on agricultural development, MOFA is well-positioned to address the complex challenges surrounding food security. By supporting MOFA's leadership, Ghana can make significant progress in ensuring that its citizens have access to nutritious and sustainable food.
Improved value chain development
Improved value chain development is a significant benefit of MOFA's leadership in driving agribusiness growth in Ghana. With MOFA at the helm, Ghana can optimize its agricultural value chains, leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.
A well-developed agricultural value chain is critical for Ghana's economic growth, as it can help increase farmers' incomes, improve food security, and enhance the country's trade balance. According to the World Bank, agricultural value chains have the potential to increase farmers' incomes by up to 30% and improve food security by up to 20%.
MOFA's leadership can improve value chain development in several ways. Firstly, the ministry's technical expertise and existing infrastructure can support the development of efficient and effective value chains. For instance, MOFA's initiatives, such as the Ghana Agricultural Sector Investment Programme (GASIP), aim to improve agricultural productivity and enhance value chain development.
Secondly, MOFA's focus on agricultural development can help address the challenges facing Ghana's agricultural value chains, such as limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of market access. By addressing these challenges, MOFA can help ensure that Ghanaian farmers and agribusinesses have the resources they need to participate effectively in agricultural value chains.
Thirdly, MOFA's leadership can help promote private sector investment in agricultural value chains, leading to improved efficiency and productivity. According to the African Development Bank, private sector investment in agricultural value chains can increase productivity by up to 50% and improve efficiency by up to 30%.
Statistical insights highlight the potential benefits of MOFA's leadership in improving value chain development. For instance Ghana's agricultural sector contributes around 20% to the country's GDP, but the sector's growth rate has been slow, averaging around 3% per annum between 2015 and 2020 (Source: World Bank). The agricultural sector employs around 50% of Ghana's workforce, but the sector's productivity is low, with average yields for major crops such as maize and rice being around 20-30% lower than regional averages (Source: FAO). Ghana's agricultural exports have been increasing, but the country still faces significant challenges in accessing international markets, with around 30% of agricultural exports being rejected due to quality issues (Source: Ghana Export Promotion Authority).
MOFA's leadership is crucial for improving value chain development in Ghana's agricultural sector. With its technical expertise, existing infrastructure, and focus on agricultural development, MOFA is well-positioned to address the challenges facing Ghana's agricultural value chains and promote private sector investment in the sector. By supporting MOFA's leadership, Ghana can optimize its agricultural value chains, leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.
Improved investment
Improved investment is a significant benefit of MOFA's leadership in driving agribusiness growth in Ghana. With MOFA at the helm, Ghana can attract more investment in the agricultural sector, leading to increased productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness.
MOFA's leadership can improve investment in several ways. Firstly, the ministry's technical expertise and existing infrastructure can provide investors with the confidence and assurance they need to invest in the sector. For instance, MOFA's initiatives, such as the Ghana Agricultural Sector Investment Programme (GASIP), aim to improve agricultural productivity and enhance investment in the sector.
Secondly, MOFA's focus on agricultural development can help address the challenges facing Ghana's agricultural sector, such as limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of market access. By addressing these challenges, MOFA can help create an enabling environment for investment in the sector.
Thirdly, MOFA's leadership can help promote private sector investment in agricultural value chains, leading to improved efficiency and productivity. According to the African Development Bank, private sector investment in agricultural value chains can increase productivity by up to 50% and improve efficiency by up to 30%.
Statistical insights highlight the potential benefits of MOFA's leadership in improving investment in the agricultural sector. For instance, Ghana's agricultural sector received around $100 million in investment in 2020, a significant increase from the $50 million received in 2015 (Source: World Bank). The agricultural sector accounts for around 20% of Ghana's GDP, but the sector's growth rate has been slow, averaging around 3% per annum between 2015 and 2020 (Source: World Bank). Ghana's agricultural exports have been increasing, but the country still faces significant challenges in accessing international markets, with around 30% of agricultural exports being rejected due to quality issues (Source: Ghana Export Promotion Authority). A study by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) found that every dollar invested in agriculture in Ghana generates around $1.50 in returns, highlighting the potential for investment in the sector to drive growth and development (Source: IFAD).
MOFA's leadership is crucial for improving investment in Ghana's agricultural sector. With its technical expertise, existing infrastructure, and focus on agricultural development, MOFA is well-positioned to attract more investment in the sector, leading to increased productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. By supporting MOFA's leadership, Ghana can create an enabling environment for investment in the agricultural sector, driving growth and development.

V. Conclusion

The debate surrounding the oversight of agribusiness development in Ghana has brought to the fore the need for a nuanced examination of the roles and capacities of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI). This discussion has highlighted MOFA's clear mandate, existing infrastructure, and technical expertise in agriculture and agribusiness, making it the ideal agency to drive growth in the sector.
Conversely, MOTI's primary focus on trade and industry, lack of agricultural expertise, and potential conflicts of interest undermine its ability to effectively oversee agribusiness development. As Ghana seeks to optimize its agricultural sector and drive economic growth, it is essential that the right agency is entrusted with the oversight of agribusiness development. The evidence clearly points to MOFA as the better-suited agency for this role.
As Ghana strives to achieve its economic development goals, it is imperative that the government takes a decisive step to optimize the agricultural sector. We urge policymakers to recognize MOFA's comparative advantage in driving agribusiness growth and to formally designate the ministry as the lead agency for agribusiness development.
This move would enable MOFA to leverage its technical expertise, existing infrastructure, and sector-specific knowledge to create an enabling environment for agribusinesses to thrive. By doing so, Ghana can unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector, drive economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians.
We call on stakeholders, including farmers, agribusinesses, civil society organizations, and development partners, to join us in advocating for MOFA's leadership in agribusiness development. Together, we can ensure that Ghana's agricultural sector reaches its full potential and contributes meaningfully to the country's economic development.
In conclusion, the importance of optimizing ministerial roles to drive agribusiness growth in Ghana cannot be overstated. By leveraging MOFA's technical expertise, existing infrastructure, and sector-specific knowledge, Ghana can unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector and drive economic growth.
As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize effective governance, coordination, and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that the agricultural sector receives the support it needs to thrive.
Ultimately, the success of Ghana's agricultural sector will depend on our collective ability to work together towards a common goal. By designating MOFA as the lead agency for agribusiness development, we can take a significant step towards achieving that goal and creating a brighter future for Ghana's farmers, agribusinesses, and citizens.

DR. CHRISTIAN SEWORDOR MENSAH, PhD
0546245325
[email protected]