ILO launches JobAgri project to strengthen employment and sustainability in Ghana’s agri-food sector

The International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), officially launched the JobAgri project in Ghana today. The initiative seeks to harness the power of the agri-food sector to create sustainable employment opportunities while promoting economic resilience and climate adaptation.

Held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, the launch brought together over 50 stakeholders, including government officials, farmers’ associations, private sector representatives, and development organizations. The event was attended by Mr. Ignatius Baffour Awuah, Chief Director of the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, alongside other distinguished speakers.

ILO Country Director Mrs. Vanessa Phala emphasized that agriculture remains central to Ghana’s economy, employing approximately 40% of the country’s workforce.

JobAgri strengthens national capacities to align agricultural policies with employment objectives, ensuring that the sector continues to provide sustainable livelihoods.

Vanessa Phala, ILO Director for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the ECOWAS liaison office

Stakeholders highlighted the challenges facing the agriculture sector, including climate change and supply chain disruptions, and underscored the importance of resilient and sustainable farming practices. The Chief Director of the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging agriculture for job creation, poverty reduction, and economic inclusion, pledging strong institutional support for the project’s implementation.

A key milestone of the launch was the establishment of the Multi-Stakeholder Forum (MSF), officially unveiled by Mrs. Phala. The MSF will facilitate collaboration among diverse actors in agriculture and employment sectors, fostering inclusive policy dialogue and collective action to maximize the impact of the agri-food sector on decent work.

Through JobAgri, Ghana is set to enhance data collection and policy coordination, ensuring a transformative approach to agricultural employment. The initiative prioritizes youth employment, rural development, and climate-smart agricultural practices, positioning Ghana as a leader in sustainable agricultural policy innovation.

The launch concluded with a call for continued stakeholder collaboration and investment to scale up JobAgri’s efforts, ensuring the agricultural sector remains a cornerstone of economic development and social progress in Ghana.