Mahama’s “Grow 24” to Launch 20 High-Tech Farming Towns to Boost Food Security and Cut Imports

The “Grow 24” initiative, a key pillar of President John Dramani Mahama’s “24-Hour Economy” vision, is set to revolutionise Ghana’s agricultural sector with the launch of 20 modern agro-ecological enclaves across the country.

Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy, Mr. Goosie Tanoh, shared this announcement during an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Wednesday, July 3.

At the heart of the plan is the creation of “Abedu” – self-sustaining farm towns designed to operate as fully integrated agricultural ecosystems. These enclaves will feature full mechanisation, advanced irrigation, round-the-clock electricity, reliable road networks, and vital agricultural extension services.

“Each Abedu will house a farmers’ organisation, where an anchor farmer will serve as a guaranteed market for smaller farmers,” Mr. Tanoh explained. “These anchor farmers, in turn, will also benefit from secured markets through co-located industrial parks and buffer stock facilities.”

The initiative seeks to drastically reduce post-harvest losses while driving value addition through on-site processing and direct market access.

In its first phase, “Grow 24” will establish 20 enclaves of varying sizes, strategically positioned to grow priority crops such as maize (for food and animal feed), soybeans (used in feed, oil, cosmetics, and other industrial sectors), and rice.

These crops have been identified for their potential to lower inflation, reduce Ghana’s reliance on imports, and improve price stability and competitiveness in the agricultural market.