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Australia-Ghana Partnership Key to Solving Ghana’s Food Production Challenges – Prof. Opoku-Agyemang

Ghana’s Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has underscored the importance of deepening agricultural collaboration between Ghana and Australia to tackle food production challenges and enhance the country’s food security.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by Australian High Commissioner Berenice Owen-Jones, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted Ghana’s vast arable lands and Australia’s expertise in agribusiness as key factors that could drive a transformative partnership in the agricultural sector. She noted that a well-structured collaboration would yield mutual benefits for both nations, helping to modernize Ghana’s agriculture and improve food production efficiency.

Expanding Agricultural Cooperation

In response, High Commissioner Owen-Jones disclosed plans to expand the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) to Ghana. This initiative aims to promote research, technology transfer, and innovation in agriculture, aligning with Ghana’s mechanized farming agenda and broader food self-sufficiency goals.

“Australia has extensive experience in sustainable agribusiness, and we see great potential in working closely with Ghana to enhance food production and address challenges in the sector,” she stated.

The proposed expansion of ACIAR is expected to provide Ghanaian farmers with access to cutting-edge agricultural techniques, helping to boost productivity and ensure food security.

Australia’s Mining Investments in Ghana

Beyond agriculture, the discussions also touched on Australia’s significant investment in Ghana’s mining sector. High Commissioner Owen-Jones revealed that Australian mining investments in West Africa currently stand at approximately $30 billion, with Ghana hosting a substantial share.

She expressed optimism about the upcoming Atlantic Lithium project in Ghana, which, pending parliamentary approval, is expected to create over 900 direct jobs and stimulate economic growth in local communities.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged Australia’s expertise in the mining industry and stressed the need for sustainable mining practices that align with Ghana’s environmental and developmental objectives.

Support for Community Development

The discussions also reaffirmed Australia’s long-standing commitment to community development in Ghana through its Direct Aid Program (DAP). High Commissioner Owen-Jones emphasized Australia’s continued support for initiatives targeting women, children, and marginalized communities.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang commended the positive impact of the DAP in Ghana and called for increased funding to further strengthen local community resilience.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

The meeting between the Vice President and the Australian High Commissioner reinforced the commitment of both nations to enhancing cooperation in agriculture, mining, and community development. With a shared focus on economic growth, sustainability, and technological innovation, the partnership between Ghana and Australia is set to drive long-term progress in key sectors of Ghana’s economy.

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