Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto honoured with Order of the Volta Officer Award

The President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, honored individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation's development at the National Honours and Awards ceremony held at the Accra International Conference Centre on Monday, December 30, 2024.

One of the distinguished recipients was Hon. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, former Minister for Food and Agriculture, who received the prestigious Order of the Volta – Officer award in recognition of his outstanding service to Ghana. Dr. Akoto’s tenure as Minister for Food and Agriculture, from 2017 to 2023, was characterized by an unwavering commitment to modernizing and transforming Ghana’s agricultural sector. His leadership saw the implementation of innovative initiatives that increased productivity, enhanced food security, and improved the livelihoods of farmers nationwide.

Among his significant accomplishments was the introduction of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program in 2017. This groundbreaking initiative revitalized agriculture by providing farmers with subsidized seeds, fertilizers, and technical support, leading to increased food production, job creation, and improved food security for millions of Ghanaians. Dr. Akoto also oversaw remarkable growth in the agricultural sector, with a record 8.4% growth rate in 2021—the highest under Ghana’s Fourth Republic.

Under his leadership, Ghana gained international recognition for its advancements in food security. By 2022, the country ranked third on the African continent in the Global Food Security Index, up from sixth in 2016, according to the Economic Intelligence Unit. This achievement underscored the success of his policies in making food more available and affordable.

The Order of the Volta – Officer award is a testament to Dr. Akoto’s dedication to national development and his tireless advocacy for Ghanaian farmers. His policies not only established agriculture as a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy but also inspired hope for a more sustainable future.

In the award citation, his accomplishments were commended for modernizing Ghana’s agricultural landscape and promoting access to finance, modern farming techniques, and mechanization. His leadership was credited with the expansion of mechanized farming, improved irrigation systems, and enhanced production across the sector.

The Order of the Volta, Ghana’s second-highest national honor, was instituted in 1960 to recognize exceptional service to the country. Dr. Akoto’s recognition affirms his significant impact on Ghana’s agricultural progress and his enduring commitment to the nation’s development.