Orange Growers Association unveils new HQ, eyes global citrus dominance
The Orange Growers Association (OGA) has officially opened its new head office in Akim Oda, Eastern Region, in a strategic effort to bolster Ghana’s citrus industry. This move comes at a time when global demand for oranges is on the rise, offering significant business opportunities for local producers.
The citrus industry is projected to grow from $3.7 billion to $5.6 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7%. In light of this, the OGA’s new headquarters will play a crucial role in coordinating efforts to enhance the industry’s capacity, improve market access, and ensure that Ghanaian orange farmers can tap into this expanding global market.
Since its inception, the OGA has grown rapidly, increasing its membership from 273 in 2020 to over 3,000 farmers across 12 districts and 82 rural communities. This expansion has been supported by strategic partnerships with key industry players such as Eastfield Farms, Sono Ghana, and the Ivorian firm Compass. These collaborations have introduced innovative technologies like drones and specialized extension services to address critical issues such as post-harvest losses, pest management, and market volatility.
Nana Yaw Baffour Frimpong, President of the OGA, emphasized that the new head office represents the culmination of years of dedication and effort by the association and its partners. The facility will serve as the nerve center for planning and implementing strategies to elevate Ghana’s orange industry, positioning it as a top export commodity with global recognition.
The OGA’s efforts are further supported by contributions from international partners like OJ Global LLC, whose CEO, Alexander Sapara-Grant, provided motorbikes and tricycles to aid in regional operations. This support underscores the association’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring that its members can meet the demands of both local and international markets.
The association’s business strategy also aligns with national agricultural initiatives, particularly the government’s Planting for Export and Rural Development (PERD) agenda. Isaac Mann, Birim Central Director for the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), highlighted the importance of integrating orange production into these initiatives to overcome challenges such as access to finance and technology, which are crucial for expanding the industry’s reach.
With the opening of its new headquarters, the OGA is poised to lead Ghana’s citrus industry into a new era of growth and prosperity. The association is calling on both local and international stakeholders to join forces in driving the industry forward, creating new opportunities, and improving the livelihoods of orange farmers across the country.
