In Accra, Ghana, discussions are underway between the country’s Agriculture Minister Eric Opoku and Ukraine’s Deputy Minister Denys Bashlyk, focusing on the establishment of a wheat processing plant. This strategic initiative is aimed at reducing Ghana’s reliance on imported wheat and enhancing Africa’s food security in the face of global supply shocks.
The proposed plant is part of a larger agreement anticipated to be sealed in 2025, which envisions Ghana as a key hub for Ukrainian agricultural products in West Africa. This development marks a significant shift for Ukraine, which is reorienting its export strategy amidst global supply disruptions.
Ghana’s demand for wheat has surged, with imports rising by nearly 57% over the past four years, reaching around 1.09 million tonnes in 2025. This increase is driven by a growing market for bread, noodles, and other processed foods, leaving the country vulnerable to global supply disruptions, particularly following the Russia-Ukraine war.
Ukraine, one of the world’s largest wheat exporters, sees Africa as a new market opportunity with significant potential. The proposed plant is part of Ukraine’s “Food from Ukraine “initiative, which seeks to deepen economic ties with African nations and sustain exports.
Beyond the flour plant, both countries are exploring support for Ghanaian farmers, including the distribution of five million seed packets and investments in storage and value chains. This partnership aligns with Ghana’s Feed Ghana Programme, which aims to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. Experts anticipate an increase in similar investments as African countries seek to move up the value chain and diversify their trade partners.
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Original author: Ayodeji Adegboyega
