Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy Secretariat Mobilises GHS1 Billion for Poultry Sector Transformation

In a major boost for President John Mahama’s flagship 24-Hour Economy policy, the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat and the Accelerated Export Development Authority (AEDA) have successfully secured over GHS1 billion in financing commitments to transform Ghana’s poultry value chain. This significant capital injection is designed to increase local production, generate sustainable employment, and drastically reduce the country’s heavy reliance on imported chicken. The initiative arrives at a critical time for the agricultural sector, as local production currently meets only about 4.6% of national demand, leaving the market overwhelmingly dependent on foreign imports.

According to Mr. Arnold Parker, the Funding Team Lead at the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat, the financing strategy is a collaborative effort involving major private sector financial institutions, including ABSA, Fidelity Bank, and Ecobank. The first phase of the rollout targets GHS300 million, which will be utilized to provide customized financing solutions tailored to the unique needs of poultry farmers. This funding will support various segments of the value chain, from feed production and modern equipment procurement to processing facilities and expanded veterinary services, ensuring a holistic approach to industry growth.

Beyond just production, the program aims to address historical bottlenecks by collaborating with research institutions to drive innovation and improve productivity. By strengthening the entire value chain, the Secretariat expects to create thousands of jobs for youth and professionals alike, while fostering an environment where poultry businesses can operate efficiently around the clock. The initiative also aligns with the nation’s broader export development goals, seeking to position Ghanaian poultry products as competitive options in the regional market.

As the first phase of this billion-cedi mobilization begins to take effect, the government aims to shift the narrative of the poultry industry from one of import-dependency to one of self-sufficiency and export potential. This strategic investment under the 24-Hour Economy framework signals a committed effort to modernizing Ghana’s agricultural landscape and ensuring food security for the future. Stakeholders across the value chain are now looking toward the implementation phase as a turning point for domestic agribusiness and economic resilience.