As Ghana celebrates the National Democratic Congress’ resounding victory in the recently concluded general elections, Klutse Kudomor, an agribusiness consultant with vast experience in Nestlé Central and West Africa, Youth in Agriculture, and the Ghana Agricultural Sector Investment Programme, has commended Ghanaians for hand over leadership to the NDC.

However, he emphasizes that this trust comes with immense responsibility, especially in addressing critical economic and agricultural challenges.

A Victory with High Expectations

Speaking shortly after the NDC’s victory, Mr Kudomor congratulated the President-elect for earning the confidence of Ghanaians. “He who much is given, much is expected,” he stated. According to him, the party’s mandate over the next four years will be judged based on its ability to restore economic stability and foster development.

Key areas of concern raised by Mr Kudomor include food production, the revitalization of the agricultural sector, tackling the exchange rate crisis, and addressing illegal mining (galamsey), which has left many lands degraded.

Agriculture: A Pillar for Economic Transformation

Mr Kudomor believes the agricultural sector holds the key to Ghana’s economic revival. He highlighted the need for the Volta Region to focus on cultivating cash crops such as coconut and mango, which can play a similar role to cocoa in regions like the Western, Ashanti, and Eastern Regions. “Coconut oil has become one of the safest oils for food production globally. Turning regions like the Volta and Central Regions into hubs for coconut production and processing would create jobs and increase Ghana’s export capacity,” he said.

Rice production was another area Mr Kudomor emphasized. He noted that the Volta Region alone, in collaboration with other regions, has the potential to produce enough rice to feed the entire country and even export the surplus. “If we invest in the rice industry, develop it into a complete value chain, and ensure processing and exportation, we’ll not only reduce import dependence but also create numerous jobs across agriculture, transport, and markets,” he explained.

Tackling Infrastructure Gaps

Beyond agriculture, Mr Kudomor underscored the urgent need to address Ghana’s infrastructure deficits.

He lamented the neglect of key projects, including schools constructed under the previous administration. Citing an example, he pointed to a school in Agave in the Volta Region that remains unused due to political changes.

“We must prioritize completing abandoned projects. Our communities need functional schools, roads, and basic amenities. In my village, we had to construct our own roads and build schools for our children. Such situations should not persist in a country with immense potential,” he said.

Harnessing Aquaculture Opportunities

Mr Kudomor also highlighted the untapped potential of aquaculture in the Volta Region, which is rich in water bodies. He pointed out that businesses such as Mr Dansu’s fingerling production operation are well-positioned to scale up and support the region’s fish farming efforts. “If we can distribute fingerlings into our water bodies, we can create jobs for fishermen and women, while generating income for our communities,” he said.

Formalizing the Informal Economy

On youth employment, Mr Kudomor advocated for formalizing informal jobs, such as motorcycle (Okada) operations, to ensure safety and professionalization. “We need to train the youth to understand the cultures of their jobs and ensure they work in safe conditions. This will not only create dignified employment but also boost productivity,” he stated.

A Call to Action for the NDC Government

Mr Kudomor urged the incoming administration to act decisively and urgently. “Ghanaians have given us a four-year mandate, after which we’ll be judged. We must increase our competitive gaps in agriculture, infrastructure, and industry to meet the high expectations,” he noted.

He expressed optimism that if the NDC focuses on revitalizing agriculture, infrastructure, and youth employment, Ghana can achieve sustainable development. “Let’s prioritize what we can produce locally, such as rice, coconut, and fish. The success of this government will depend on how well it addresses these pressing needs,” he concluded.

He said the government should focus on cash crops like coconut and mango for export. Additionally, we must turn regions like Volta into rice production hubs, not only to feed the nation but also to create jobs across the value chain.

He noted aquaculture can be a game changer. By stocking our water bodies with fingerlings and empowering fishermen, we can create jobs, increase fish production, and improve food security.
He said that formalising informal jobs like Okada riding and providing proper training can create safer and more dignified opportunities for our youth.

He urged the new government to Act quickly and decisively. Focus on agriculture, infrastructure, and youth employment. Ghanaians are watching, and the success of this administration will determine its future.

Mr Kudomor’s vision offers a roadmap for the incoming government to leverage agriculture and infrastructure to drive development and job creation. With bold and strategic action, Ghana’s economy can be revitalized, paving the way for prosperity in the years to come.