His Excellency, Your Royal Majesty, Honourable Ministers of State, all port-de-comptes observed. It is a true pleasure to join you today at the maiden Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition. A summit that is not just an event, but a signal of intent about Ghana’s future.
On behalf of the Government of Switzerland, I am proud that we stand here among the partners of this important initiative. This summit is built on a powerful belief that agriculture and especially tree crops can drive jobs, growth and environmental stewardship at the same time. This is not a small ambition, it is transformation.
Switzerland values its long-standing partnership with Ghana and is proud to walk these paths together with you. In fact, our partnership spans more than two decades. It has evolved with Ghana’s ambitions and realities, yet it remains rooted in a simple truth.
Lasting prosperity is built by a vibrant private sector, strong institutions and real partnerships. There is a Ghanaian proverb, after the storms comes the calm. Storms test resilience, they reveal strength.
Ghana has shown both. Another Ghanaian proverb reminds us, when the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind. Ghana’s roots are indeed deep, in entrepreneurship, agriculture, innovation and above all, in the resilience of its people.
Our job is to deepen those roots further so that growth can withstand any wind. Switzerland’s new cooperation program with Ghana focuses strongly on improving the business environment and strengthening value chains like cashew, oil palm, shea and cocoa. Why? Because these sectors create jobs, build skills and anchor rural economies.
Our belief is that when value is added locally, wealth stays locally. And let us be clear, many of these value chains are powered by women. When we invest in tree crops, we invest in women farmers, women processors and women traders.
And when women thrive, households thrive, communities thrive and economies thrive. This summit sends a strong message. Ghana is ready for sustainable agribusiness investment.
The opportunities are real, the potential is significant and the time is now. But success will require bold partnerships, responsible investment and innovation. It will require investors who think long term and partners who value sustainability.
Ladies and gentlemen, the future of Ghana’s tree crop sector is promising. With strong governance, clear policies and committed partners, Ghana can build a green economy that benefits farmers, businesses and communities alike. Switzerland stands ready to continue supporting reforms, building confidence and attracting investment that unlocks Ghana’s full potential.
I would like to congratulate the organisers and encourage all participants. Use this summit to build real partnerships, make real commitments and pursue real impact.
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