Togbe Afede XIV Praises $10bn Big Push Programme for Farm Produce Shipping in Ghana

Introduction

On December 5, 2025, Ghana’s agricultural sector received a powerful endorsement from one of its most respected voices. Togbe Afede XIV, Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, publicly praised the federal government’s Big Push programme during the 41st Ghana National Farmers’ Day celebration in Ho. With a $10 billion commitment to infrastructure and agricultural logistics, the initiative aims to transform how farm produce is shipped across the country. This recognition from a key traditional leader underscores the national importance of the programme and its potential to reshape rural economies, reduce post-harvest losses, and strengthen food security in Ghana.

Why the Big Push Matters for Ghana

The Big Push programme is more than a financial investment—it represents a strategic shift toward modernizing agricultural supply chains. By improving road networks, the government seeks to connect farmers in remote communities to urban markets, reduce transportation costs, and ensure timely delivery of perishable goods. Togbe Afede XIV’s support highlights the alignment between traditional leadership, government policy, and sustainable development goals.

Analysis

The Big Push programme targets critical gaps in Ghana’s agricultural infrastructure. Historically, poor road conditions have hindered farmers’ ability to transport crops, livestock, and fish to markets, leading to spoilage, lower incomes, and limited economic growth in rural areas. The $10 billion investment addresses these challenges by upgrading highways, feeder roads, and rural access routes.

Economic and Social Impacts

Improved transportation infrastructure directly benefits farmers by reducing travel time and vehicle maintenance costs. It also opens new market opportunities, allowing smallholder farmers to reach larger consumer bases. According to Togbe Afede XIV, the programme has already injected over $10 billion into the economy, signaling strong progress and sustained government commitment.

Role of Traditional Leadership in Agricultural Development

Togbe Afede XIV’s endorsement reflects the vital role traditional leaders play in advocating for rural development. As custodians of land and culture, chiefs like the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State often serve as bridges between communities and government institutions. His public support enhances the credibility of the Big Push and encourages broader public buy-in.

Alignment with National Development Goals

The programme aligns with Ghana’s broader digital transformation agenda and food security strategies. Reliable roads enable the integration of digital tools in agriculture, such as mobile marketplaces and logistics platforms. This synergy between physical infrastructure and technology is essential for building a resilient agricultural economy.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For farmers and rural communities, the success of the Big Push depends on active participation and feedback. Here are actionable steps to maximize benefits:

Engage with Local Authorities

Farmers should collaborate with district assemblies and traditional councils to identify priority roads and report maintenance issues. Community input ensures that infrastructure projects meet real needs.

Leverage Digital Market Platforms

With better roads, digital tools for market access become more effective. Farmers are encouraged to use mobile apps that connect them to buyers, track prices, and arrange transport services.

Form Cooperatives for Collective Transport

Farmer cooperatives can reduce shipping costs by pooling resources for shared transportation. This approach increases bargaining power and ensures consistent delivery schedules.

Adopt Post-Harvest Handling Best Practices

Even with improved roads, proper storage and handling remain critical. Training in post-harvest management can further reduce losses and improve product quality.

Points of Caution

While the Big Push programme shows great promise, several challenges require attention:

Ensuring Equitable Distribution of Resources

There is a risk that funding may favor certain regions over others. Transparent allocation criteria and public reporting are necessary to prevent disparities.

Maintenance of Completed Infrastructure

Building roads is only the first step. Long-term success depends on regular maintenance, which requires sustained funding and institutional capacity.

Environmental Considerations

Road construction can impact ecosystems and farmland. Environmental assessments and community consultations should guide project planning to minimize negative effects.

Corruption and Project Delays

Large infrastructure programmes are vulnerable to mismanagement. Strong oversight mechanisms, including civil society monitoring, are essential to ensure accountability.

Comparison

The Big Push programme can be compared to similar initiatives in West Africa, such as Nigeria’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda and Côte d’Ivoire’s National Development Plan. However, Ghana’s approach stands out for its integration of traditional leadership and focus on rural connectivity.

Ghana vs. Regional Neighbors

While other countries prioritize commercial farming and export crops, Ghana’s Big Push emphasizes inclusive growth by supporting smallholder farmers and local markets. This people-centered model may offer a replicable framework for sustainable agricultural development.

Legal Implications

The Big Push programme operates within Ghana’s legal framework for infrastructure development and agricultural policy. It aligns with national laws on land use, environmental protection, and public procurement. Compliance with these regulations ensures that projects are implemented transparently and fairly. Additionally, the programme supports Ghana’s commitments under international agreements on food security and sustainable development.

Summary

Togbe Afede XIV’s endorsement of the $10 billion Big Push programme highlights its significance for Ghana’s agricultural future. By investing in road infrastructure, the government is addressing long-standing challenges that have limited farmers’ productivity and income. The programme’s success depends on continued funding, community involvement, and effective oversight. If implemented well, it can serve as a model for inclusive agricultural transformation in Africa.

Conclusion

The Big Push programme represents a bold step toward modernizing Ghana’s agricultural sector. With strong support from traditional leaders like Togbe Afede XIV, the initiative has the potential to improve livelihoods, reduce poverty, and enhance food security. However, sustained effort, transparency, and community engagement will be key to its long-term success. As Ghana continues to build roads and connect communities, it also builds a foundation for a more prosperous and resilient nation.

FAQ

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily – Original article: “Togbe Afede XIV lauds executive’s $10bn ‘big push’ programme for reinforcing farm produce shipping”
• Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), Ghana – Official statements on the Big Push programme
• Ghana National Farmers’ Day records – 41st edition, Ho, December 2025
• Interviews and public remarks by Togbe Afede XIV, Agbogbomefia of Asogli State
• World Bank – Reports on agricultural infrastructure in Ghana
• FAO – Studies on post-harvest losses and transportation in West Africa
• ECOWAS Agricultural Policy documents – Regional comparisons