Rev Edwin Afari Calls for Action to Reset Ghana’s Oil Palm Industry

Rev. Edwin Afari the Coordinator for Tree Crops Diversification Project has called for stronger action to translate policies and programmes into practical interventions to transform Ghana’s oil palm industry.

Speaking on the theme, “From Policy to Practice: The Role of TCDD/TCDA in Resetting Ghana’s Oil Palm Industry,” Rev. Afari said oil palm remains a major source of income and employment, supporting thousands of farmers and businesses across the value chain.

He noted, however, that the sector continues to face challenges including low productivity, limited access to quality planting materials and affordable finance, inadequate extension services, poor infrastructure and weak market linkages.

Rev. Afari urged the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) to strengthen support for farmers through improved planting materials, practical extension services, access to finance, processing and value addition, stronger market connections and sustainable farming practices.

He stressed that resetting the industry requires more than sound policies, but effective implementation, collaboration, accountability and measurable results.

“TCDA has an important role to play in bridging the gap between policy and practice by ensuring that programmes reach the farmer, investments reach the value chain, and the benefits of the oil palm industry reach communities,” he said.

He called on government, farmers, processors, financial institutions, researchers, development partners and the private sector to work together to build a productive, competitive and sustainable oil palm industry capable of driving economic growth and improving livelihoods.

Rev. Edwin Afari concluded by urging stakeholders to turn plans into action and work collectively to reset Ghana’s oil palm industry for sustainable growth.