Green means Business: How Ghana’s garden revolution is growing jobs, wealth and hope

The Ghana Garden and Flower Show, which has evolved from a simple flower exhibition to a globally recognized movement, is transforming Ghana's economy, environment and society. This change began with a perception that flowers were merely decorative items, while gardens and horticulture were seen as hobbies rather than serious economic activities.

However, the show has demonstrated that gardens, flowers and green spaces offer numerous benefits beyond aesthetics. They contribute to healthier living, environmental stewardship, economic opportunity, and climate resilience.

This shift in perception is largely due to the efforts of Esther Amba Numaba Cobbah, the Founder and CEO of Strategic Communications Africa Limited (Stratcomm Africa), and the organization's flagship initiative, the Ghana Garden and Flower Movement (GGFM). Launched in 2013, the Movement has evolved from a communication campaign to a non-profit organization with an Advisory Board comprising government agencies, private companies, development partners, academia and civil society. Its mission is to create a "Greener, Cleaner, Healthier, Wealthier and More Beautiful Ghana."

The annual Ghana Garden and Flower Show, now in its 14th edition, has become the Movement's flagship event. It aims to demonstrate that flowers, trees, herbs, vegetables and ornamental plants are not just decorative items, but valuable economic resources that can generate employment, improve livelihoods and enhance national wellbeing. The show's influence extends beyond Ghana's borders, with partnerships established with international organizations such as the Programma Uitzending Managers (PUM) Netherlands Senior Experts.

This year, the show will be held at the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park in Accra from September 12 to 21, 2026, under the theme "Green Means Business, Beauty and More." It promises to be the largest and most ambitious edition yet, bringing together various stakeholders, including government institutions, private businesses, development partners, researchers, educators, landscapers, flower growers, horticultural experts, entrepreneurs and visitors interested in discovering the potential of Ghana's green economy.