Ghana consumes 600,000 whole chickens daily, we must produce this locally - Ralph Ayitey

Ralph Ayitey is the CEO of Coconut Grove Regency Hotel. He is also the National Treasurer of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI). He recently spoke about Ghana's poultry industry and its challenges.

Ayitey noted that Ghana imports a large amount of frozen chicken. This is despite the country's potential to produce enough locally. He mentioned that Ghana consumes 600,000 to 650,000 imported chickens daily.

"This shows our local poultry industry struggles to meet demand," he said. "We must ask why we import so much when we can produce it."

He believes Ghana can achieve self-sufficiency in poultry production. However, this requires support from various stakeholders, including the government and farmers.

"We need to help local farmers with resources and incentives," Ayitey stressed. "High production costs make it hard for them to compete with imports."

He suggested that the government introduce protective policies for local producers. This could include tariffs on imported chicken or incentives for local farmers.

"We should make eating local chicken fashionable again," he added. "Promoting our poultry industry will reduce reliance on imports and create jobs."

Ayitey highlighted that poultry farming could significantly boost Ghana's economy. He explained that an acre can host a profitable six-storey poultry farm.

"Let’s think creatively to support our industries," he urged.

By supporting local poultry, Ayitey believes Ghana can reduce imports and stimulate growth. "We must work together for self-sufficiency in chicken production."

**Formalizing the Informal Sector**

Ayitey also called on the government to formalize Ghana's informal sector. This sector contributes about 35.6% of GDP but is often overlooked due to poor data.

He praised the IBES report by the Ghana Statistical Service for addressing this issue. It provides insights into both formal and informal sectors.

"This report helps identify businesses outside the tax net," he stated. "Targeted interventions are needed for formalizing these operations."

To tackle challenges in the informal sector, Ayitey recommended a multi-sectoral approach involving several ministries.

"I suggest developing bankable proposals for agri-businesses," he said.

He emphasized making formal business operations more attractive for informal operators. Simplifying processes and reducing costs could encourage registration and compliance with tax laws.

"If there’s motivation, tax revenue collection will improve," Ayitey noted.

By formalizing operations, he believes Ghana can increase tax revenue and create jobs. "We need public dialogue to explore our data needs as a country."