Agrotech Fair 2026: EXIM Bank woos youth into agriculture through technology

Ghana's agricultural sector has long been recognized as a cornerstone of the nation's economy, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the country's GDP. However, in recent decades, the sector has faced numerous challenges, including declining yields, limited access to financing, and a lack of modern technology. Simultaneously, Ghana has witnessed a growing trend of youth unemployment, with many young graduates struggling to find suitable employment opportunities in the formal sector. This situation has prompted concerns about the future of agriculture and the need to attract a new generation of skilled professionals to revitalize the industry.

The perception of agriculture among Ghanaian youth has often been one of a labor-intensive, low-paying, and unattractive profession. This perception has contributed to a reluctance among young people to pursue careers in agriculture, leading to a widening gap between the aging farming population and the need for fresh talent. However, there's a growing recognition that technology can play a transformative role in modernizing agriculture and making it more appealing to the younger generation. The integration of technology into agriculture can improve efficiency, reduce post-harvest losses, enhance quality, and increase incomes, thereby creating more attractive and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Moreover, the government and various stakeholders have been actively promoting initiatives to encourage youth participation in agriculture, recognizing the potential of the sector to drive economic growth and create employment opportunities.

Several key players are involved in shaping the future of agriculture in Ghana. The Ghana EXIM Bank, for instance, plays a crucial role in providing financial support to businesses in the export sector, including those in agriculture. Other stakeholders include the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, which is responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to agriculture, as well as various private sector actors, research institutions, and development partners. There are underlying tensions between the need to modernize agriculture and the challenges of limited access to financing, technology, and infrastructure. The stakes are high, as the success of efforts to attract youth into agriculture will have significant implications for food security, economic growth, and job creation in Ghana.

Several open questions remain regarding the future of agriculture in Ghana. How effectively can technology be integrated into the agricultural sector to attract and retain young talent? What are the specific skills and training that young people need to succeed in modern agriculture? How can access to financing be improved for young entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector? What are the most promising areas for innovation and investment in agricultural technology? The answers to these questions will determine the extent to which Ghana can harness the potential of its agricultural sector to drive economic growth and create sustainable livelihoods for its youth.