Sustainable Employment through Agribusiness (AgriBiz)

Project Title: Sustainable Employment through Agribusiness (AgriBiz)

Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)

Country: Ghana

Co-funded by: European Union (EU)

Lead executing agency: Ministry of Finance; The main implementation partners are the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

Overall term: 2021 to 2024

Context

The processing and marketing of agricultural products (agribusiness) represent a major sector of industry in Ghana and create many jobs. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) contribute up to 70 per cent of Ghana’s economic output. However, only 20 per cent of the agricultural and natural products produced are further processed in the country itself.

Many agribusiness companies need support to become more competitive and, for example, improve their supply chain management. Moreover, they often lack access to financial resources for long-term investments. Women entrepreneurs in particular need advice in order to prevail in a still male-dominated market.

Objective

The conditions for creating productive employment in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the agribusiness sector are improved.

Approach

AgriBiz is working with the Ghanaian Ministry of Trade and Industry to improve the framework conditions for MSMEs (‘ring fencing risks’) and strengthens business organisations in representing the interests of their members.

Among other things, AgriBiz supports the processing companies in their business development, in introducing technological solutions, with certification according to international standards and in using by-products in a circular economy. In addition, the project promotes companies that offer services and production inputs along the supply chains.

The project operates with financial support from the EU and has a regional focus on the north-west of Ghana. It supports producers in seven value chains (cashew nuts, peanuts, vegetables, mangos, rice, soya and sorghum) and advises Government authorities on important framework conditions. The focus is on strengthening quality agricultural production.

Agriculture and Finance Consultants GmbH (AFC) is a project partner that works to promote the private sector.

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