Government urged to drive coffee industry growth to boost economy

Industry stakeholders are urging the Ghanaian government to advance its commitment to the nation’s coffee sector, pushing to develop the coffee industry into a major economic contributor.

The National Programme Coordinator for the International Trade Centre, Larry Attipoe issued the call during the Ghana Coffee Fair and Exhibition, held in Osu, Accra. 

Mr. Attipoe reminded the government of its prior commitment to establishing coffee as a significant sector in Ghana’s economy, aiming to elevate it to a $2.5 billion market. 

“A few years ago, the government made a bold statement about growing coffee to the level where it will become a $2.5 billion market,” he said. “It is a very good target, but we have to put the resources behind it.”

He emphasised the government’s role in establishing a conducive environment for the sector, underscoring the need for resources, supportive policies, and value-added processing in Ghana. “My message to the government is to put resources behind it. Create a very good policy and an environment for people to feel good in the sector. Help them to grow their coffee and process it internally to add value,” Mr. Attipoe added.

The Ghana Coffee Fair and Exhibition marked the conclusion of the weeklong Ghana Coffee Week, a program aimed at raising awareness about the country’s growing coffee industry. 

Mr. Attipoe highlighted the importance of visibility for Ghanaian coffee, particularly Robusta coffee, which is native to the country and offers a unique flavor profile.

He noted that many event attendees were surprised by the quality of Ghanaian coffee, which he believes has the potential to challenge international brands. 

“People had misconceptions about Ghanaian coffee,” he explained. “Some doubted its quality, but when they came and tasted it, they were pleasantly surprised. They realized that it is good and better than other brands on the market. Someone told me, 'I'm a connoisseur of coffee and I have never tasted something like this.'”

The program revealed a strong interest from potential buyers and consumers, reinforcing the need for sustained efforts to promote Ghanaian coffee as a high-quality product. “The major takeaway is that many people have, for the first time, got to know that we produce coffee in the country,” Mr. Attipoe remarked. “We have to work and make people know that coffee can be a very important tool for development in our country.”