Kumasi: The Vice President of the Coconut Federation of Ghana, Kwaku Boateng, has called for increased national attention and investment in coconut production, describing it as a powerful tool for economic stability and job creation.
According to Ghana Web, Boateng, speaking in an interview on Akuafo Mmre hosted by Kwaku Boateng on Esra TV on April 12, 2026, emphasized the untapped potential of Ghana's coconut industry. He highlighted that taking coconut plantation seriously could yield significant profits and serve as a viable alternative for galamsey operators. "Everything about coconut is money. If the government supports the industry, we can establish more processing factories and hubs, add value to our produce and bring more money into the economy to help stabilize it," he asserted.
Boateng noted the sector's impressive growth trajectory, pointing out that Ghana has ascended to become Africa's leading coconut producer. The country, which previously ranked second on the continent, has expanded from approximately 60,000 hectares under cultivation with an output of over 300,000 metric tonnes to currently having about 90,000 hectares and production reaching around 600,000 metric tonnes.
He credited this progress to the strong collaboration between the private sector, led by the Coconut Federation, and the government. Boateng urged for sustained government support, particularly in processing infrastructure and value addition, to transform the coconut industry into a major economic pillar, reduce unemployment, and provide alternative livelihoods to illegal miners.