My plan is to establish special agro-industrial processing zones in all sixteen regions — Mahama

NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama

John Mahama, flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has unveiled plans to boost agricultural production and processing through the establishment of special agro-industrial zones across all sixteen regions of Ghana if elected in December.

According to the former president, the agro-industrial zones will provide much needed support to smallholder farmers and rural entrepreneurs.

"My plan is to establish special agro-industrial processing zones in all sixteen regions and, in collaboration with the Ghana EXIM Bank, enhance the value of the crops for which they have a comparative advantage," Mahama wrote in a Facebook post on Tuesday, June 18.

He added that the strategic move will "not only open new job opportunities but also enable us to gradually reduce our dependence on the import of strategic products currently imported as raw materials."

Mahama expressed passion for developing the agricultural sector, which he believes holds the key to job creation and economic transformation.

"I am passionate about creating a thriving agricultural sector and am committed to delivering on my promises to support small businesses and farmers across the country," he asserted.

If elected, the agro-industrial zones are aimed at adding value to locally produced commodities, boosting incomes for farmers and spurring the growth of agribusinesses.

It forms part of Mahama's plans for a "prosperous and sustainable future for Ghana."