Growers in Ghana are facing an adverse climate that is limiting their export performance, at a time when demand for Ghanaian fresh produce is growing. Abdul Karim Dubiure Zanni, president of the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters, reports on the situation.
Zanni says, "Our country has been experiencing unpredictable and erratic rainfall patterns in recent years. This has seriously affected yields and the quality of horticulture produce. Growers are coping by resorting to irrigation and water harvesting techniques, drought-resistant varieties, and high-tech agronomic practices resulting in high production costs."
© Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters
According to Zanni, the situation is now improving thanks to substantial investment in irrigation equipment and infrastructure.
"On the bright side, markets are there," continues Zanni. "Demand for fresh produce from Ghana has risen sharply compared with last season. Export volumes for all products have risen by over 30%. Demand comes mainly from the European market. There are also exports to the United States, but this market is slow to pick up because of the long distance."
Demand mainly concerns exotic fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and coconuts, as well as sweet potatoes and yam, according to the exporters' representative.
"The prospects for the next four years look very bright, as the new government's policy is to reset Ghana by investing heavily in agriculture and an accelerated export program," Zanni concludes.
For more information:
Abdul Karim Dubiure Zanni
Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters
Tel: +223 244 337 633
Email: akarimgh@gmail.com / info@fageghana.com
www.fageghana.com