Hon. Lawrence Agyinsam, Member of Parliament for the Twifo Hemang Lower Denkyira Constituency, has expressed scepticism about the government’s plan to create 250,000 jobs through oil palm plantations, citing the lengthy time it takes for palm trees to mature.
Speaking to the media, Agyinsam questioned the feasibility of the government’s target, given that palm plantations take 6-7 years to produce fruit, and the current administration has less than 3 years in office. He emphasised that while the idea is commendable, the timeline is unrealistic.
Ghana aims to achieve self-sufficiency in palm oil production by 2032 through the National Policy on Integrated Oil Palm Development. The policy, spanning 2026-2032, seeks to cultivate over 100,000 hectares of new oil palm plantations.
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson presented the budget, stating the initiative will be implemented by the Tree Crops Development Authority and private sector partners. Agyinsam urged the government to be transparent about the timeline and potential benefits, citing examples from Ivory Coast and Asian countries that have successfully leveraged oil palm production.
He highlighted the potential economic benefits of oil palm, including 35 by-products, and urged the government to learn from these countries to revive Ghana’s oil palm industry and create sustainable jobs.
The former CEO of Ghana Axim Bank also highlighted the economic potential of avocado, palm oil, and coconut industries. He cited examples of Asian countries that have successfully leveraged these crops to boost their economies.
Agyinsam noted that coconut and other crops have numerous by-products that can drive economic growth and create jobs. He urged Ghanaians to learn from these countries, stating that with proper implementation, Ghana’s future can be brighter and unemployment can be significantly reduced.
The MP emphasised that with strategic planning and execution, crops like oil palm, avocado, and coconut can transform Ghana’s economy and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
