The Vice Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Prof. Abdul Halim Abubakar was part of a delegation to the International Horticultural Expo which started on October 2, 2023, and is expected to run until March 28, 2024, in Qatar’s capital city, Doha.

Expo 2023 Doha is a significant step for Ghana to showcase its investment opportunities, innovative capabilities, and commitment to global cooperation and development. The Expo, which is being organised under the theme “Green Desert, Better Environment,” is poised to attract about three million visitors, offering a unique platform for networking and partnerships.

Participants who have so far visited the Ghana Pavilion have had engaging experiences centred around three key thematic areas: Modern Agriculture, Technology and Innovation, and Sustainability. These thematic areas do not only underscore Ghana’s capabilities but also highlight its commitment to advancing horticulture with a focus on sustainability and innovation.

As part of the International Horticultural Expo 2023, a conference on ‘Agribusiness opportunities in Ghana within the context of Agritech’ was hosted by the Ghanaian delegation. Stakeholders discussed the latest technology and innovation in Ghana’s agricultural sector, building entrepreneurship and opportunities for investors. The event was attended by Ambassador of Ghana to Qatar, H.E Mohammed Nurudeen Ismail, several Ambassadors accredited to Qatar and the business community.

Speaking to UDS Media after the conference, the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, who doubles as the President of the Ghana Institute of Horticulturists (GHIH), Prof. Abdul Halim Abubakar lauded the organisation of the Expo in Doha and the importance of horticulture to Ghana’s economy. He added that Ghana cannot transform economically without the horticultural sector, broad investments, exports and economic transformation.

Agriculture remains an overwhelming priority for Ghana, as it employs around 45% of the labour force. In 2022, agriculture contributed 18.78% to Ghana’s gross domestic product (GDP). Ghana is the second top producer of cocoa in the world, the main ingredient in chocolate, just behind neighbours Ivory Coast. Both countries produce about two-thirds of the world’s supply.

The global horticulture market is estimated at $20.77bn in 2021 and is projected to reach $40.24bn by 2026. Ghana, however, recorded just $3m in export revenues from fruits and vegetables to the GCC in 2022, and authorities are committed to increasing its presence in the region.
During one of the sessions, representatives of the University for Development Studies, and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, discussed how educational institutions can drive development in the sector and attract investment.

Story by:
Abdul Hayi Moomen
(UDS Media)