Anas Ahmed Encourages Youth to Embrace Grow24 Farming Initiative Under 24-Hour Economy Programme

 

CENTRAL REGION – Anas Ahmed, a hopeful for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Central Regional Deputy Secretary position in 2026, has called on Ghanaian youth to seize opportunities under the government's 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme by participating in the Grow24 agricultural initiative.

According to him, the 24-Hour Economy policy is designed to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and boost local production, with Grow24 serving as one of its flagship components. He explained that the initiative features two major agricultural projects—the Eden Volta Breadbasket Project and the Shikpan Urban and Peri-Urban Farming Revolution—which are expected to transform livelihoods and strengthen Ghana's food production capacity.

Mr. Ahmed noted that the Shikpan initiative promotes modern urban farming by introducing smart farming systems in metropolitan areas. He said the programme requires only three to five acres of land to begin, making it accessible to young people and aspiring farmers without the need for significant start-up capital.

He stated that participants will cultivate high-demand, short-cycle crops such as lettuce, tomatoes, pepper, okro, and onions to meet the growing needs of local markets.

He further explained that the initiative operates as a youth-led cooperative, offering members access to cold chain logistics, urban aggregation centres, and a digital marketplace that provides real-time pricing, efficient distribution networks, and stronger links between farmers and consumers.

Mr. Ahmed urged young people to view agriculture not only as a business venture but also as a sustainable source of additional income to support their careers and improve their financial well-being.

He stressed that the success of the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme depends on increased agricultural production to supply industries with adequate raw materials while ensuring reliable markets for finished and semi-finished products.

He also encouraged institutions including the Ghana Education Service, Ghana Prisons Service, traditional authorities, religious leaders, Members of Parliament, government appointees, heads of institutions, community groups, and retirees to consider participating in the Grow24 initiative as part of efforts to promote national development and economic transformation.

Credit: Nana Kwasi Asare