ACCRA, GHANA – In a significant move to enhance collaboration within Ghana’s vital fertilizer sector, AFAP recently facilitated a high-level breakfast meeting. Held on April 3, 2025, the event brought together CEOs and Managing Directors from leading private sector fertilizer and agro-input companies for a direct dialogue with the Honorable Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, Mr. John Setor Dumelo. The primary goal, facilitated by AFAP, was to strengthen coordination, communication, and advocacy, creating a more unified and impactful voice for the private sector in addressing industry challenges and opportunities.

The meeting addressed a recognized need within Ghana’s agricultural landscape: the lack of a strong, cohesive private sector association specifically for the fertilizer industry. While the Fertilizer Platform Ghana (FPG) exists as a multi-stakeholder forum, private sector players highlighted the necessity for improved organization to tackle specific business issues and contribute more effectively to policy formulation and implementation. Strengthening this private sector segment is viewed as crucial for improving fertilizer availability, accessibility, and affordability, ultimately benefiting Ghanaian farmers.

During an open and interactive session moderated by Mrs. Nana-Aisha Mohammed, industry leaders raised critical operational and policy concerns directly with Hon. Dumelo. Key discussion points included the significant impact of port charges, levies, and the tariff system on final input costs for farmers; the need for streamlined import processes, including faster permit approvals and consideration of a dedicated berth for fertilizer shipments; enhancing the capacity of the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD) for effective quality control; and the importance of clear, timely communication from the government on new programs like the Feed Ghana initiative and subsidy plans.