President Mahama declares war on filth, says “Ghana must be clean again”

President John Dramani Mahama announced plans for a fertiliser production plant in Ghana during the sod-cutting ceremony for Sentuo Airport Garden City in Accra on September 15, 2026. Xu Ningquan, Chairman of Sentuo Group, hinted at the construction of the fertiliser plant aimed at supplying farmers with locally produced fertiliser.

The President did not provide specifics on the plant's location, capacity, investment cost, financing, or construction timeline. Ghana's fertiliser imports, valued at approximately US$296.2 million in 2024, could potentially be reduced through local manufacturing, mitigating exposure to overseas supply disruptions and exchange rate fluctuations.

The proposal also impacts public agricultural spending, as the Ministry of Finance allocated GH¢515.3 million for fertilisers and certified seeds in June 2026. Timely access to suitable fertiliser can improve crop yields, as crops deplete soil nutrients, necessitating replenishment through nutrient management. A successful plant could generate job opportunities in various sectors, including engineering, maintenance, packaging, distribution, and training for Ghanaian workers.

Furthermore, exports to neighbouring countries could yield additional revenue, contingent on competitive pricing and dependable delivery. The President's announcement adds fertiliser manufacturing to the ongoing discussion surrounding private investment in Ghana's productive capacity, with the plant's worth ultimately determined by its affordability, availability, and contribution to the economy.