Ghanaian actor and politician, John Dumelo, has revealed his significant contribution to the economy of Ghana through his agribusiness venture. He shared that his farming activities have provided livelihoods for 300 to 400 people annually, ensuring food security for numerous families in the country. Mr. Dumelo’s passion for agriculture was ignited when he noticed vast fertile lands lying idle in the northern part of Ghana, while the nation continued to import crops that could easily be grown locally.
In a recent interview with Nhyira FM’s Nana Jantuah on Kuro Yi Mu Nsem, the former Ayewaso West Wuogon Parliamentary Candidate of the NDC expressed concern about the misconception surrounding farming among Ghana’s youth. He emphasized that agribusiness is a lucrative venture and called for a shift in the perception that farming is reserved for the elderly and rural populations.
Mr. Dumelo urged the government to invest more in agriculture to avert potential future crises, such as the need to import essential food items like eggs. He noted that many supermarkets in Ghana already stock imported fruits and ginger, which should be grown locally to boost the nation’s economy and food self-sufficiency. To achieve this, he called for greater support from the government to bolster his agribusiness endeavors.
Despite the lack of government assistance, Dumelo has self-financed his farming projects, ensuring fair wages for the workers he employs. While discussing the challenges faced in the industry, he highlighted the need for irrigation as a vital factor in boosting agricultural productivity. By tapping into resources such as the Volta River, Tunu Dam, and other water bodies for irrigation, Ghana can reduce shortages of essential crops like tomatoes, maize, and onions.
Mr. Dumelo passionately emphasized the importance of agriculture in Ghana’s future development. As he looks ahead to the 2024 elections, he pledged to prioritize agribusiness in his manifesto, aiming to make the sector more attractive and stable. With government support and investment, he believes agriculture can transform into a thriving industry that benefits the entire nation.
