🚜No Free Gifts in Mechanization: Asante Mampong MCE Hon. Yakubu Yussif Urges Responsible Use of Agribusiness Equipment
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Asante Mampong, Ashanti Region — September 2025 In a bold step to transform agriculture into a hub of opportunity for the next generation, the Kumasi Institute of Tropical Agriculture (KITA) hosted a high-level forum on 26th September 2025 at Asante Mampong.
The event, themed "Strengthened Access to Mechanization for Agribusiness to Enhance Youth Employment Opportunities in Ghana," convened farmers, youth empowerment advocates, Persons with Disabilities (PWD) associations, agribusiness experts, and government officials.
🌍Bridging Youth, Mechanization, and Inclusion: Why This Matters
The forum aimed to:
• Explore how mechanization can expand youth employment opportunities in agriculture
• Strengthen agribusiness training to boost productivity and innovation
• Promote inclusivity by ensuring opportunities for women and Young Persons with Disabilities (YPWDs)
🎤Event Highlights and Contributions
Key speakers and contributors included
Dr. Benjamin A. Danso and Mr. Elison Owusu-Fordjour (KITA) – shared expert perspectives on mechanization and youth agribusiness.
Rev. Kofi N. Kyeremateng (Agrinvest) and Dr. Kelvin Alordzinu (Consultant) – emphasized financial and technical models for sustainable mechanization.
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| Dr. Benjamin A. Danso, Mr. Elison Owusu-Fordjour, Rev. Kofi N. Kyeremateng, and Dr. Kelvin Alordzinu- highlighted on mechanization and technical models for sustainable mechanization |
Hon. Yussif Yakubu (MCE of Mampong) – encouraged innovation and inclusivity, stressing that agriculture must work for youth, women, and PWDs. His words hit home: “Agriculture is for all—youth, women, and even those society often sidelines. We must all have a place at the table. Hon. Yakubu Yussif confronted the reality that many farmers treat government-loaned machinery as “free gifts,” stressing the need for responsible financing systems.
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“Hon. Yussif Yakubu, MCE of Mampong, urged innovation and inclusivity in agriculture, stressing that youth, women, and persons with disabilities must all benefit. He cautioned against treating government-loaned machinery as ‘free gifts,’ calling for responsible financing systems to sustain agricultural growth.”
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Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations, MoFA, and Social Welfare – highlighted strategies to integrate and empower YPWDs in agriculture.
•Partnerships Formed: Stakeholders initiated new collaborations between local government, agribusinesses, and PWD associations.
•Commitment to Inclusivity: Clear pledges were made to involve women and YPWDs in mechanization programs.
•Urgency for Change: Expanding access to mechanization is vital for unlocking youth employment.
🌐Why Mechanization Matters Beyond Ghana
Agricultural mechanization is more than a local priority—it connects Ghana’s efforts to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
✨SDG 2: Zero Hunger (Target 2.3) – Boosting smallholder productivity and farmer incomes through modern inputs.
✨SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Creating dignified jobs for youth, women, and Persons with Disabilities.
✨SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Modernizing agriculture through innovation and technology access.
Participants outlined three priorities for sustaining momentum:
• Finance that Works – Develop accessible financial systems to support mechanization adoption.
• Keep Talking & Listening – Regular stakeholder engagement with youth and disability groups.
• Train More, Train Smarter – Expand mechanization training opportunities for women and YPWDs.
🌾 A Step Toward an Inclusive Agribusiness Future
The forum concluded with renewed optimism that mechanization can redefine agriculture as a career of choice for Ghana’s youth. By combining collaboration, inclusivity, and practical solutions, the initiative has planted seeds of transformation—seeds that could grow into stronger livelihoods, more resilient food systems, and a brighter future for young agripreneurs across Ghana.
The forum’s outcomes not only strengthen Ghana’s agricultural future but also align with global goals like SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), ensuring youth empowerment is part of a larger development agenda.
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Key participants included Agricultural Experts, Youth Empowerment Advocates, Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Associations, and key Government Representatives
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Written by: Antoinette DamienPublished on AgronomyHub – Advancing Sustainable Crop Production in Africa
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