The Tropical Agricultural Marketing and Consultancy Services (TRAGRIMACS) has unveiled the Ghana Sunflower Project which aims to cultivate sunflowers on a large scale within the country, with an anticipated launch in 2024. Collaborating closely with the Crop Science Department of the University of Ghana (UG) and the Chemistry Department of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), this initiative sets out to reshape Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
Mr. Issah Sulemana, the Chief Executive of TRAGRIMACS, highlighted the project’s pivotal role in curbing the nation’s reliance on imported sunflower oil. The venture aligns seamlessly with the National Policy on Agricultural Industrialization, aiming to substitute the substantial annual importation of sunflower oil. Currently, Ghana spends approximately $4 million yearly to import sunflower oil, a crucial component in fish processing. The fish processing industry then exports fish flakes in sunflower oil, contributing significantly to a staggering $147 million in annual revenue.
The motivation behind this venture stems from the mandate issued by the US Food and Drugs Authority, necessitating the use of sunflower oil for the preparation of fish flakes. Recognizing the economic implications and potential for agricultural growth, TRAGRIMACS envisions tapping into the $152 million sunflower oil industry in Ghana. More households are embracing sunflower oil due to its health benefits, making the prospect of domestic production all the more promising.
Beyond economic gains, the Ghana Sunflower Project also carries substantial environmental benefits. Mr. Sulemana explained that sunflowers possess the unique ability to contribute to climate change mitigation. Extracting biodiesel from sunflowers creates a renewable energy source that reduces carbon emissions. Additionally, sunflowers can play a role in land reclamation, aiding in the restoration of areas degraded by illegal mining, known as “galamsey.” The project’s multifaceted impact is poised to shape a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
A significant aspect of the project’s vision is to bolster income generation for farmers, ultimately uplifting communities and alleviating poverty. By fostering agricultural productivity and creating a value chain around sunflower cultivation, TRAGRIMACS aims to empower local farmers and enhance livelihoods.
Mr. Sulemana emphasized the project’s partnership with the Ghana Investment Promotion Center (GIPC), showcasing the collaborative efforts of both the private and public sectors. The urgency of launching the Ghana Sunflower Project stems from the global disruption in sunflower oil production caused by the Ukraine conflict. Traditionally, Russia and Ukraine have been major players in sunflower oil production and supply. Given the ongoing geopolitical turmoil, this initiative holds the promise of promoting local production and reducing Ghana’s dependence on external sources.
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus), characterized by their vibrant daisy-like flower faces, have multifaceted applications. Not only do they serve as ornamental plants, but they also yield economic value. Sunflower leaves can be used as fodder, while the flowers provide a source of yellow dye. The seeds, a central element of the project, contain oil that can be used both in food and industrial contexts, from cooking to soap and paint production.
