The American government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), provided $85,000 to support the first-ever Ghana Horticultural Expo.

The three-day event organised by the Federation of the Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE) and partners, runs from July 9 to 11, 2024 at the Accra International Conference Centre.

“By funding this event through the Feed the Future Ghana Trade and Investment (GTI) Activity, we aim to enhance collaboration among stakeholders, increase private sector involvement in food security initiatives, and empower enterprises to position themselves as engines of growth in Ghana's economic transformation agenda,” said USAID Ghana Economic Growth Office Director, Andrew Read during the opening session.

Under the theme Celebrating Ghana's Horticultural Diversity; Produce Quality, Export More, the expo brings together farmers, exporters, representatives from the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), horticultural business sector players, experts and innovators, financial institutions, and development partners.

They are brought together to observe demonstrations of horticultural products and practices, establish business connections, provide valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies, and create interest in the horticulture sector, especially among the youth.

There will also be workshops and panel discussions for participants to observe and engage in.

“Improved horticulture means more fruits and vegetables in your home gardens and at the farmer’s market, providing improved access to critical nutrients for a balanced diet,” Read added.

The United States is Ghana’s largest bilateral development partner. In 2023, the United States Agency for International Development, USAID, provided over $140 million in bilateral development assistance.

This funding covered various areas, including agriculture, economic growth, health, education, governance, and more.