Accra: An entrepreneur has called for the rotation of Ghana AgroTech Fairs to regions outside Accra to promote inclusivity and support local innovators. Mr. Eric Kuupole, Co-founder and Technical Engineer of King Tractor Limited in Nandom in the Upper West Region, emphasized that hosting future editions in the hinterlands would provide equal opportunities for enterprises in underserved areas.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Kuupole, speaking at the close of the maiden Ghana AgroTech Fair 2026 in Accra, stated that events held mainly in Accra and Kumasi limited participation from remote areas. The three-day fair, organised by the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry in collaboration with the Ghana Export-Import Bank, was held at the Black Star Square under the theme: 'Transforming Agribusiness through Local Innovation and Technology.' This event provided a platform for institutions to showcase locally developed agricultural machinery, agro-processing equipment, and emerging technologies aimed at boosting productivity and enhancing value addition.
Mr. Kuupole highlighted that his company exhibited small-scale tractors designed to support smallholder farmers with limited access to mechanised services. "Our focus is to support smallholder farmers by providing affordable and accessible machinery to improve productivity," he explained. The tractors were constructed using chanfang engines, which significantly influenced production costs.
He described his participation as encouraging, noting that it was the company's first appearance in Accra, having previously participated in a similar fair in Kumasi. Mr. Kuupole expressed optimism that engagements at the fair would lead to partnerships, investments, and technical support to scale up production. "It has been very interesting meeting new people. Many have shown interest in what we do, and we are hopeful of receiving feedback from those who took our business cards," he added.
Mr. Kuupole mentioned that a company based in Ejisu in the Ashanti Region had shown interest in collaborating to improve the safety and efficiency of the machines. Additionally, the company had established international connections, including engagement with a Kenya-based representative affiliated with the United Nations Development Programme, who indicated willingness to support the initiative.
Despite these prospects, Mr. Kuupole identified financing and access to key components as major challenges. He noted that chanfang engines, costing about GHS66,000, accounted for a significant portion of production expenses and were not readily available locally. "Producing these machines is a long-term project. We cannot manufacture today and sell tomorrow. The cost of the engine alone takes about half of our investment," he remarked.
Mr. Kuupole appealed to the Government to support local manufacturers by facilitating access to such components through import support or local supply channels. He also commended the organisers for providing a platform for innovators, particularly those from underserved regions, to showcase their products. "We are very grateful for the opportunity to be here. Platforms like this help us present our work to a wider audience and attract the support needed to grow," he concluded.