Ashanti regional minister designate unveils plan to empower youth through agriculture:
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister designate, has outlined his vision to empower the youth in the region through agricultural development. Speaking during his vetting process, Dr. Amoakohene emphasized the region’s vast agricultural potential, with various districts specializing in different crops.
According to Dr. Amoakohene, Ofinso North is renowned for its tomatoes and cashews, while mining areas focus on coco production and cultivation. To capitalize on this potential, the establishment of a cashew board under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture is underway. This initiative aims to make cashew cultivation a lucrative venture, encouraging youth to explore farming as a viable career option.
However, challenges persist, particularly regarding land ownership and capital. Rural MMDAs have land but lack capital, whereas urban MMDAs have capital but no land. To address this, MMDAs can utilize their mandate under Section 119 of the Local Government Act to purchase land and form partnerships, providing youth with access to arable land for farming.
The region’s agricultural potential is vast, with opportunities for large-scale maize and rice cultivation, as well as vegetable production. The Atwima Mponua District, for example, has approximately 423 hectares of citrus and 269 hectares of oil palm plantations, supplying raw materials for processing.
By leveraging these opportunities and addressing existing challenges, the Ashanti Region can unlock its agricultural potential, create employment avenues for youth, and support local families. Dr. Amoakohene’s plan aims to empower the youth, promote economic growth, and improve food security in the region.
