Sixteen young innovators have taken bold steps to reshape Ghana’s agricultural landscape with cutting-edge agri-tech and value-added food processing solutions, showcased at the National Youth Agri-Innovation Challenge in Accra.

The event, themed “Youth at the Frontlines of Agricultural Transformation,” brought together young entrepreneurs, business development organizations, and financial institutions to explore youth-centred solutions for the future of farming.

Organised under the Accelerating Change Through Innovation in Agricultural TVET (ACTIVATE) Project, the challenge aims to align with Ghana’s agricultural and employment policies by equipping young people with practical skills, innovation capacity, and access to financing. The project is jointly implemented by the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) and the Mastercard Foundation, with a shared goal of promoting youth-led transformation in the agri-food sector.

Deputy Project Director of ACTIVATE at WUSC, Timothy Akanpabadai, emphasised that young people must lead Ghana’s response to challenges such as food production, post-harvest losses, and market access.

“We want to see youth think creatively and approach agriculture as a business. Their energy and innovation are key to transforming the sector,” he said.

Senior Manager at Challenges Group Ghana, Marcel Koomson, noted that the ACTIVATE Project is bridging the gap between Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training (ATVET) institutions and the private sector. He said the initiative promotes youth inclusion and business growth, citing examples such as smart storage systems and organic value-added products being developed by young innovators.

“Our goal is to engage more youth in the agricultural value chain and create meaningful employment opportunities,” he added.

The challenge highlighted a growing shift toward policy-backed, youth-driven agricultural transformation — where innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship are driving forces for job creation and food security.

Some participants, however, raised concerns about limited access to funding, noting that initiatives like the Youth Agri-Innovation Challenge provide vital exposure, mentorship, and partnership opportunities to help start-ups scale their impact.

Through their partnership, WUSC and the Mastercard Foundation are fostering inclusive growth and empowering Ghana’s next generation of agripreneurs to turn agriculture into a thriving, tech-driven enterprise.