MoFA launches ambitious initiative to empower 200,000 young Ghanaians in agriculture

The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) has launched an ambitious initiative under the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ 2.0) programme, targeting the creation of sustainable jobs and financial independence for 200,000 young Ghanaians. Announced by the Deputy Director of MoFA, Mr. Patrick Ofori, this initiative aims to integrate the youth into the agricultural sector, making them pivotal in enhancing the country’s food security and economic resilience.

During an event focused on the future of food and agriculture, Mr. Ofori highlighted agriculture’s vital role in Ghana’s economy, emphasizing its contributions to employment, income generation, and food security. The PFJ 2.0 programme offers young participants comprehensive mechanization services, including land preparation, planting, and harvesting. These services not only boost productivity but also alleviate the physical demands of farming. Additionally, the programme ensures that participants have access to a well-organized market, enabling them to sell their produce at fair prices, thus supporting their financial stability.

PFJ 2.0 goes beyond providing inputs and market access by focusing on capacity building. The programme includes training in agronomic practices, financial literacy, and farm management, equipping young farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage their farms sustainably. To support participants financially during the initial stages of production, the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) will provide a monthly allowance until the first harvest.

Mr. Ofori also acknowledged the challenges facing the agricultural sector, such as climate change, land degradation, and water scarcity. He emphasized the importance of involving the youth in addressing these challenges, as their innovation and engagement are crucial for sustainable agricultural practices.

One of the core initiatives of PFJ 2.0 is engaging 200,000 youth in permanent agricultural work, with each participant responsible for cultivating an average of 10 acres. This initiative will develop over 400,000 hectares of arable land, focusing on crops like maize, rice, and vegetables, which have shorter production cycles and offer quick cash returns—making them particularly appealing to young farmers.

PFJ 2.0’s youth-centered approach removes many traditional barriers that have discouraged young people from entering agriculture. The programme’s input credit system allows participants to access necessary farming inputs without requiring upfront cash or collateral, significantly lowering the entry threshold and making agriculture a viable and profitable business option for the youth.

Mr. Ofori urged the youth to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by PFJ 2.0, encouraging them to actively engage with the programme and utilize the available resources for their future success. Registration for PFJ 2.0 is currently open through the YEA official portal and the Ghana Agricultural and Agribusiness Platform. The programme is set to significantly impact the lives of Ghana’s youth, fostering a new generation of empowered and successful agricultural entrepreneurs.