The Ghana Small-Scale Oil Palm Producers Association (GOPPA) has commended the government for its plan to introduce a comprehensive Oil Palm Plantation Policy aimed at generating more than 500,000 jobs across the oil palm value chain.

The policy was disclosed by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, during a recent engagement with the Regional Vice President for Africa at the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

He explained that the initiative forms part of the government’s wider strategy to reposition agriculture as a key pillar of economic transformation under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama.

In a statement issued in Accra, Mr. Kojo Obeng Berkoh, Executive Secretary of GOPPA, described the announcement as “a forward-looking and transformative step” that aligns with Ghana’s long-term development priorities.

“This policy marks a historic milestone for Ghana’s oil palm sector,” Mr. Berkoh stated.

“Oil palm remains one of our most strategic agricultural commodities.

With the right support, it can drive rural industrialisation, scale up local processing, and expand employment opportunities for thousands of Ghanaian households.”

GOPPA, which represents more than 4,000 smallholder farmers and processors nationwide, expressed confidence that the initiative will strengthen the sector’s competitiveness and boost the livelihoods of farming communities across the oil palm belt.

Mr. Berkoh further pledged the Association’s readiness to partner with the government and private sector players to ensure successful implementation.

“GOPPA has decades of experience working directly with farmers and processors on the ground,” he emphasised.

“We stand fully prepared to collaborate with government agencies, development partners, and investors to ensure that this policy benefits the very people whose hands sustain the industry.”

He noted that oil palm, often referred to as Ghana’s “Red Gold,” holds unique potential to enhance export earnings, support value addition, and contribute to inclusive economic growth.

GOPPA thanked Dr. Forson and President Mahama for demonstrating, in their words, “clear commitment and strategic leadership in revitalising an industry with vast national importance.”