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Ghana’s Poultry Industry Seeks $100 Million Boost for Modernization.

The poultry industry in Ghana, which makes a substantial economic contribution to the country, needs a sizable investment to boost competitiveness and revive its operations. According to the Ghana National Association of Poultry Farmers (GNAPF), modernizing hatcheries, feed production facilities, processing plants, and marketing techniques will require an investment of $100 million.

This investment request surfaced at a recent gathering that was centered on Ghana’s poultry value chain optimization. This was the first time that representatives from the Israeli Embassy and the Economic and Trade Mission had come together with industry players. The goal of the theme, “Optimizing Ghana’s Poultry Value Chain by Exploring Israeli Poultry Solutions,” was to present cutting-edge Israeli technology that have the potential to boost Ghana’s poultry output.

Victor Oppong Adjei, President of the GNAPF, highlighted the sector’s economic importance, contributing roughly 14% to Ghana’s agricultural GDP and serving as a primary income source for numerous small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs. However, the industry faces challenges that hinder its growth.

High feed costs pose a major obstacle. Mr. Adjei pointed out that feed costs have skyrocketed, with prices jumping from GHC 1500 to GHC 7,000 pre-COVID. This surge is attributed to the rising cost of key ingredients.

Another challenge is the inadequacy of day-old chicks, essential for starting poultry production cycles. Limited infrastructure further restricts the sector’s potential.

To address these challenges, Mr. Adjei urged the government to consider implementing policies that either increase tariffs on imported poultry products or limit the quantities entering the country. He emphasized the threat posed by cheap imported chicken, stating, “The imported chicken comes in large quantities… The price is so low and if our local poultry is left to compete with the imported it will be disastrous.”

Despite the challenges, there’s optimism for the future. Madam Shlomit Sufa, the Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, lauded Ghana’s poultry sector for its resilience. She pointed to Israel’s success story, transforming its own poultry industry into a global leader through innovation, technology, and dedication.

Israel’s poultry sector stands as a prime example of turning challenges into opportunities. It ranks among the world’s top poultry producers and exporters, boasting a position as one of the top five egg producers and the sixth-largest chicken producer globally.

Madam Sufa elaborated on Israeli advancements in various areas that contribute to their industry’s efficiency. These advancements include breeding and genetics, precision farming techniques, biosecurity measures, renewable energy integration, and vertical integration with value chain development.

Ghana and Israel are looking towards future collaboration. Ambassador Sufa expressed Israel’s commitment to fostering partnerships that promote shared progress. This collaboration has the potential to unlock significant growth opportunities for Ghana’s poultry sector.

Investing in modern technologies and infrastructure, coupled with potential trade policy adjustments, could significantly enhance Ghana’s poultry industry. By embracing innovation and potentially learning from success stories like Israel’s, Ghana can ensure its poultry sector remains a vital contributor to the national economy and a source of income and job creation for its citizens.

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