In a move aimed at bolstering agricultural productivity and youth employment, the MTN Foundation has unveiled a pilot programme focused on smart farming techniques. The initiative, announced by Mrs. Adjoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer of MTN Ghana, seeks to leverage technology to enhance agricultural outputs and create job opportunities for the youth.
The programme, piloted in collaboration with the University of Ghana’s Faculty of Agriculture, introduces students to modern farming methods, particularly in vegetable cultivation. The Vegetable Centre of Excellence, equipped with greenhouses, digital irrigation, and solar power systems, serves as the hub for this innovative approach. Mrs. Wiafe emphasized the importance of strategic land use to maximize production in an environmentally friendly manner.
Currently, the programme is being implemented in two locations: Takoradi and Tamale, with about 50 students from the University of Ghana participating. The pilot phase, set to conclude this year, will be reassessed to determine the next steps. Mrs. Wiafe expressed optimism about scaling up the project, highlighting the potential for broader impact and job creation.
The announcement was made during MTN’s 2025 media and stakeholder forum in the Western Region, where Mrs. Wiafe addressed media practitioners and other stakeholders. The event also saw Mr. Desmond Cudjoe, Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Western Regional Chapter, commend MTN for its previous training initiatives. He appealed for similar programmes to enhance journalists’ skills in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The implications of this smart farming initiative are significant. By integrating technology into agriculture, the programme aims to address the sector’s challenges, such as land scarcity and low productivity. The focus on youth employment aligns with broader efforts to create sustainable livelihoods and reduce unemployment. Moreover, the collaboration between the private sector, academia, and the media underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in driving development.
As the pilot phase progresses, the success of the programme could serve as a model for other regions and sectors, demonstrating the potential of technology to transform traditional industries and create new opportunities. The MTN Foundation’s initiative highlights the critical role of innovation in addressing economic and social challenges, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.