Failure to comply with global and other standards affecting the horticultural sector – FAGE

By Christabel DANSO ABEAM

The President of the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Davies Narh Korboe, mentioned that compliance with international food safety standards remains a major hurdle for Ghana, while the perceived inconsistency in supply volumes, due to a number of factors and limited international exposure, continues to hamper access to premium markets in the horticultural industry.

He said the lack of solid international partnerships and promotional campaigns often results in missed opportunities to showcase the excellence of Ghanaian products internationally; variable climatic conditions, insufficient storage facilities and logistical constraints cause fluctuations in agricultural inputs; and the lack of resources and knowledge of smallholder farmers contribute significantly to the challenges outlined above.

“These challenges have hampered the growth and international competitiveness of the sector. Addressing this issue is essential to revitalizing the horticulture sector and ensuring its sustainable development.”

Mr. Korboe during his speech at the first horticultural exhibition in Ghana, the main theme of which was “Celebrating Ghana’s Horticultural Diversity; Produce Quality Products, Export More” It was suggested to increase investment in digital marketing, participate in international trade fairs, collaborate with recognized export promotion agencies, invest in modern warehousing facilities such as temperature-controlled warehouses, and improve transportation networks to help curb the impairment of the sector.

He listed other solutions, saying: “Technical advances such as solar-powered drying solutions can play a role in mitigating post-harvest losses; as well as aligning with global benchmarks and certifications, increased investment in training programmes to educate farmers on best hygiene, traceability and integrated pest management will be crucial.”

The FAGE President reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the horticultural sector improves its standards in the international market.

The sector will continue to work with local and international organisations to raise skills, support the economy and showcase Ghanaian products internationally. It aims to become a leading entity promoting non-conventional exports to foreign markets.

Mr Korboe called on all stakeholders to join forces, collaborate and leverage each other’s strengths to overcome the challenges and ensure sustainable growth in Ghana’s horticulture sector.

Andrew Read, Director, Ghana Economic Growth Office, USAID, also highlighted that the horticulture industry has grown significantly over the years, contributing to the diversification of the agricultural sector and becoming a significant contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, Mr Read noted that despite this success, Ghana faces challenges in realising the full potential of its horticultural products.

To address these challenges, he also called for cooperation to increase product productivity and safety.

“We need to work together to increase the adoption of best practices and improve consistency in production, while taking into account consumer health and international requirements. We also need to ensure the use of safe and compliant inputs, provide additional training for producers and traders, and adhere to international standards.”

Dr. Afua Asabea Asare, Director General of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), also indicated that her organisation remains committed to supporting the horticultural sector through strategic initiatives – such as revitalizing the coconut sector by providing disease-resistant coconut seedlings to farmers, providing pineapple suckers to farmers and undertaking capacity building programmes through the GEPA Export School, among others.

Speaking on sustainable development, the Director General urged all stakeholders to remember the importance of sustainable development by implementing practices that conserve the country’s natural resources, protect biodiversity and mitigate the effects of climate change to ensure a resilient and thriving agricultural sector for generations to come.

The aim of the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2024 is to showcase Ghana’s potential in horticulture and highlight the importance of sustainable agricultural methods in achieving economic growth through the export of value-added products.