The Government of Ghana, in collaboration with the World Bank, has officially launched the Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project (GTCDP) to boost economic, climate, and social resilience through the development of four key tree crop value chains: cocoa, cashew, coconut, and rubber.The launch event, themed "Sowing the Seeds of the Future: Unlocking Ghana's Tree Crop Potential for Inclusive and Sustainable Transformation," saw Hon.
Bryan Acheampong, Minister for Food and Agriculture, highlighting the project's goals.
He noted that the GTCDP would enhance the current capabilities of COCOBOD and strengthen the organizational capacity of the Tree Crop Development Authority (TCDA).He added that the initiative is expected to empower local farmers, traders, and processors to generate income and create approximately 3,000 jobs, with a focus on opportunities for women.Prominent leaders from the Akuapem Traditional Area were in attendance, including the Okuapehene, Oseadeeyo Kwesi Akuffo Ababio III, accompanied by Nana Awuku Sakyi (Mpuntuhene), Nana Yaa Ampem Darkoa (Nkabomhene), Nana Kwasi Osew (Okuapehene Osompahene), Nana Kwaku Aboagye DewuroOkuapehene Asamponghene & Nana Kofi Kwayisi (Okoboahene), among others.In his remarks, the Omanhene expressed pride in being part of this transformative initiative, stating, "I am deeply honored to witness the official launch of the GTCDP, a visionary initiative by the Government of Ghana aimed at transforming our agricultural sector and improving the livelihoods of farming households, including women and youth, across the nation."The Omanhene also recalled the historical role of the Akuapem people in agriculture, particularly in cultivating key crops such as cocoa and oil palm, which have been the backbone of the local economy.
The Akuapem Traditional Area's notable contribution to the GTCDP includes dedicating 2,000 acres of Kwamoso land for the project, which has long been known for its oil palm and other crop cultivation.Pledging his full support, the Omanhene stated, "We stand ready to work closely with the Government of Ghana, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and all relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of this project and any other developmental projects in our area." He further announced that the 2,000-acre Kwamoso land would be specifically used for developing coconut and rubber plantations under the GTCDP.He concluded by offering his personal commitment to mobilizing traditional leadership, farmers, and local institutions to educate and train the community in modern farming techniques and sustainable tree crop management.