BTA2023 Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has applauded Nobi Agriculture for its transformative Afram Plains project, calling it a benchmark for large-scale private investment in agriculture.
During his visit to the Sikasu facility, the President toured key sections of the 21,000-acre development, including the rice research institute, irrigation infrastructure, rice fields, warehouses, silos, and processing plant, praising the project’s scale and integration.
Accompanied by Agriculture Minister Eric Opoku, Mahama noted the project’s alignment with government initiatives such as the Volta Economic Corridor and the 24-Hour Economy, which emphasize productive sector investment as a driver of regional growth and employment creation.
“This project proves that Ghana can produce a significant share of its food if we commit to scale, technology, and long-term investment. Entrepreneurs like this will transform our agricultural sector,” Mahama said.
Modern Infrastructure for Commercial Farming
The first phase of Nobi Agriculture covers 7,000 acres, anchored by a 23-acre reservoir storing 1.2 million cubic meters of water, ensuring consistent cultivation despite variable rainfall.
The farm’s rice mill processes three tonnes per hour, supported by dryers and silos with 1,300 metric tonnes of storage. Current yields of 3.5 tonnes per acre demonstrate the benefits of modern seed varieties, irrigation systems, and structured farming practices.
A dedicated rice research institute develops seed varieties suited to Ghana’s soil and climate, while the project currently provides direct employment for over 150 people, creating both economic and social impact in the Afram Plains.
Private Investment Driving Food Security
Founder Kwame Awuah-Darko described the President’s visit as a strong endorsement of Nobi Agriculture’s long-term vision. He emphasized that disciplined, large-scale private investment is key to transforming Ghana’s agricultural sector and reducing dependency on imports.
Ghana currently imports nearly 1 million metric tonnes of rice annually, costing around US$600 million, despite domestic production growing 18% to 900,000 metric tonnes. Projects like Nobi Agriculture demonstrate how modern, integrated farming can strengthen local food security and boost the national economy.
Minister Eric Opoku stressed that projects of this scale require stable policies, access to infrastructure, and market support to attract and retain private investment.
“When investors have confidence in policy consistency and infrastructure, large-scale projects will thrive, creating jobs and ensuring food security,” he said.
A Model for Ghana’s Agricultural Future
Nobi Agriculture exemplifies how private enterprise at scale can reshape Ghanaian agriculture. From research and irrigation to processing and employment, the project highlights the potential for commercially viable, modern farming to drive economic growth, create jobs, and secure the nation’s food supply.
