Ghana and Switzerland are deepening their agricultural cooperation following a high-level diplomatic meeting between Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, and the Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Simone Giger.
The discussions, held in Accra, focused on enhancing bilateral relations in the agricultural sector, with an emphasis on technology transfer, sustainable farming practices, and food security.
Hon. Opoku was joined by the acting Chief Director and his Technical Adviser, while Ambassador Giger was accompanied by Ms. Magdalena Wust, Acting Head of Cooperation, and Charlotte Afudego, Private Sector and Trade Specialist.
The meeting reviewed ongoing Swiss-supported agricultural initiatives in Ghana and explored potential areas for future collaboration aimed at boosting productivity and economic growth.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and acknowledged the vital role of agriculture in economic development.
Ambassador Giger highlighted Switzerland’s contributions to Ghana’s agricultural landscape, particularly in cocoa, cashew, mango, and pineapple cultivation, as well as rural development projects. She emphasized Switzerland’s expertise in agricultural technology and innovation, offering insights into how these resources could benefit Ghanaian farmers.
Hon. Opoku reiterated the Ghanaian government’s dedication to leveraging agriculture as a key driver of economic transformation.
He underscored the importance of strategic investments in the sector to create jobs, enhance farmers’ incomes, and support the government’s “Feed Ghana Agenda.”
The Minister also stressed the need for improved infrastructure to increase agricultural output, particularly in the cocoa industry, and called for enhanced support for cocoa farmers.
Additionally, he proposed the recruitment of more extension officers to assist farmers in adopting modern agricultural techniques.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing optimism about future collaborations and the potential for Switzerland’s expertise and investments to contribute significantly to Ghana’s agricultural growth.
