Ashaiman residents appeal for agro-processing factory

By Francis Blankson

Tema, Feb. 21, GNA - Some residents of Ashaiman have appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to consider establishing agro-processing factories in the municipality as part of the government’s 24-hour economy policy. 

According to them, building such factories would increase the employment rate and boost local economic growth for residents to contribute to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). 

They noted that Ashaiman had energetic youth who are eager to contribute to national development; however, the lack of industries was hindering their potential. 

In an interview with a cross-section of the public, Mr. Victor Ackah, a businessman, said the country’s hard-working farmers were trying to contribute their quota to national development, however, they suffered post-harvest losses almost every year due to the lack of agro-processing factories. 

He said having such factories in the country, including Ashaiman, would also help curb the losses the farmers incur while preserving food for the country and exportation. 

“We have able farmers in the country; look at the farm produce that gets spoilt every year. We don’t have storage facilities, but if there’s a processing company here, we will add value to the goods, and everybody will benefit,” he said. 

Mr. Evans Asenso Essel, another resident, said the country was blessed with natural resources, with agriculture playing a major role in Ghana’s development and that such factories would help boost the sector. 

He urged the government to increase investment in the sector, noting that such an investment would impact the country positively, suggesting that the youth must be given technical training to man the factories. 

He added that empowering the youth in technology would help them to also explore entrepreneurship in the agriculture sector. 

Some residents also suggested the establishment of a textile, logistics and transport company to absorb the teeming unemployed youth. 

Mr. Benjamin Kwesi Bayor, an unemployed man, emphasised the pressing needs of jobs in the municipality, noting that the unavailability of industries in the area compelled most of the youth to venture into the informal sector and other unhealthy ways to make money.  

  

He mentioned that the textiles industry was full of opportunities, and implementing the 24-hour system in that sector would help maintain a steady income for the country. 

Mr. Samuel Nana Jones, an electrician, reiterated the crucial role of logistics and transport in Ashaiman, noting that the establishment of 24-hour logistics and transport companies would significantly enhance business operations and ensure seamless movement of goods and services across the country. 

He added that a round-the-clock logistics system would ensure smooth and timely movement of goods and services, which is essential for business growth and economic development. 

He noted that an efficient transport sector would also help reduce delays to work and improve workers satisfaction. 

GNA