President John Dramani Mahama has secured a supply agreement for 1,840 pieces of agricultural equipment from Belarus as part of efforts to boost agricultural production in Ghana.
The President announced this in his address at the maiden Ghana–Belarus Business Forum in Minsk, Belarus.
He said that for businesses seeking the next frontier of growth in Africa, Ghana offered the most compelling proposition, adding that agriculture represents perhaps, the greatest immediate opportunity for collaboration between the two countries.
He noted that Belarus had earned a global reputation for excellence in the production of agricultural machinery and equipment, fertiliser production, and agro-industrial systems.
President Mahama said Ghana was currently undertaking one of the most ambitious agricultural modernisation programmes in its history.
He explained that through the Government’s Feed Ghana Programme, investments are being made in mechanisation, irrigation, improved seeds, livestock development, and agro-processing.
He added that the Government is establishing Farmer Service Centres across the country to provide machinery, technical support, and modern farming services to Ghana’s farmers.
“Indeed, the ongoing procurement of agricultural machinery from Belarus for these centres is a practical example of how our partnership is already yielding tangible results,” he stated.
“As I speak today, Ghana has placed an order for 1,840 pieces of agricultural equipment from Belarus. But this is only the beginning.”
President Mahama said the Government is inviting Belarusian investors to participate in commercial farming, irrigation development, greenhouse production, fertiliser manufacturing, poultry production, aquaculture, food processing, and agricultural logistics.
He noted that Ghana’s fertile land, favourable climate, and expanding market make it one of Africa’s most attractive agribusiness destinations.
He further said healthcare is another area with enormous potential, adding that his government is expanding access to quality healthcare while investing in specialised facilities for cancer treatment, vaccine production, and medical research.
President Mahama said there are significant opportunities for collaboration in pharmaceuticals, medical equipment manufacturing, diagnostics, telemedicine, and healthcare technologies, adding that Belarusian expertise could play an important role in supporting Ghana’s healthcare transformation agenda.
He said, “The future, it is said, belongs to nations that embrace technology and innovation.”
He added, “And so Ghana is positioning itself to become a leading digital economy in Africa. We have launched our national artificial intelligence strategy titled ‘AI for Good’.”
He said the Government is implementing training for one million young people in coding and continues to expand Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, digital skills training, and innovation ecosystems.
He noted that a major technology and AI hub is currently under development in Ghana, creating opportunities in data centres, cybersecurity, fintech, agritech, health tech, and business process outsourcing.
“We welcome the Belarusian partnership in software development, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, technology transfer and innovation,” he stated.
He added that beyond agriculture and technology, Ghana presents significant opportunities in industrial manufacturing and value addition.
“Our approach is clear. We seek to move beyond exporting raw materials. We seek to process, manufacture, and create value within Ghana.”
President Mahama said opportunities also exist in mining services, mineral processing, industrial equipment, manufacturing, textiles, housing, construction materials, and renewable energy.
Source: GNA
