Bono Regional Minister, Justina Owusu-Banahene has called upon Ghana's development partners to contribute to the enhancement of cashew fruit and nut value chains to foster job creation and alleviate poverty.
Expressing concern over the annual wastage of 889,000 metric tons of cashew fruits in the region due to the absence of processing facilities, Madam Owusu-Banahene emphasized the need for value addition initiatives to capitalize on the region's cashew production.
Her appeal came during a meeting with Mrs. Harriet Thompson, the British High Commissioner, who was engaging with department heads and agencies in Sunyani to explore the economic potential of the region.
Highlighting the significant cashew plantation acreage of about 74,000 acres and an annual production of 88,900 tons of cashew beans, Madam Owusu-Banahene lamented the challenges faced by the sector, including fragmented value chains, price volatility, and inadequate farm management practices.
In addition to the cashew industry, the poultry sector was identified as another key economic driver in the region, boasting over 1,160 farmers and a poultry stock of approximately 8,000,000.
However, obstacles such as the absence of a laboratory, high costs of poultry feed and drugs, and stiff competition from imported products hindered the growth of the poultry sector.
Mrs. Thompson commended the economic potential of the region, particularly in the poultry sector, and affirmed the UK's commitment to supporting trade in Ghana through initiatives aimed at value addition and market expansion.
Latest Stories
-
WAFU B U-17 AFCON: Black Starlets to play Niger in preparatory match
38 seconds -
May 9 disaster commemoration is GFA’s biggest tribute to those who died – Kurt Okraku
5 mins -
Societe Generale Ghana records impressive 290% growth in 2023
20 mins -
Ghana Boxing Authority vice president resigns with immediate effect
23 mins -
One person arrested for attempted double registration in New Juaben South
25 mins -
New fee structure introduced for pension service providers
34 mins -
My presidency will benefit all, says Bawumia
42 mins -
Eva Andoh-Poku appointed acting Administrator for GIFEC
45 mins -
Over 20 public schools in Volta Region suffer roof damage from rainstorm
48 mins -
Government embarks on sustainable transformation of its built environment
49 mins -
Newborn baby abandoned at church gate
54 mins -
Ghana Bar Association supports Mepe students
54 mins -
Akufo-Addo touts Ghana’s oldest Anglican cathedral, advocates protection of the relics
55 mins -
University of Ghana launches Legon Leadership Academy initiative
56 mins -
Cedi to stabilise against dollar, other foreign currencies – Governor assures
1 hour