The Northern Sector Coordinator of the Asean African Consortium (AAC), a subsidiary of the Jospong Group of Companies, Peter Dawuni, has reiterated its commitment to advancing its rice revolution agenda in Ghana and beyond.
Speaking at the UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, on November 19, 2024, Mr. Dawuni unveiled AAC’s ambitious plans to address food security through sustainable practices in agriculture and water management
He assured potential investors of the project’s viability, citing the legal acquisition of 200,000 acres of land to support the initiative.
“We have legally secured 200,000 acres of land to sustain our rice revolution project, making it an attractive opportunity for investors. All necessary documentation is in place,” he stated.
Mr. Dawuni emphasized that AAC’s partnership with investors would be free of land-related challenges, adding, “We’re confident our collaboration will foster growth, enhance food security, and contribute significantly to Ghana’s economic development.”
The AAC aims to produce 720,000 metric tonnes of rice within five years, a step towards reducing Ghana’s dependence on rice imports. Additionally, the organization is positioning itself to expand investments across Africa, prioritizing food security on a continental scale.
“We must collectively ensure food security not just for Ghana but also for our neighbouring countries. Our focus goes beyond profitability; it’s about creating a lasting impact through sustainable food production,” he stated.
Explaining the company’s commitment to sustainability, Mr. Dawuni detailed the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices, such as Alternative Wetting and Drying (AWD) for rice farming, compost application, and agro-forestry.
“Our increased use of compost has significantly reduced carbon emissions, supporting Ghana’s climate action goals,” he noted.
The AAC has drawn inspiration from international best practices, conducting extensive research in Thailand, Japan, China, and France. These efforts ensure that their methods align with global sustainability standards.
AAC is exploring equity and debt financing, integrating resilient agricultural practices, leveraging climate-smart technologies, and fostering private-public partnerships to achieve its goals.
“This strategic approach underscores our dedication to environmentally friendly and sustainable rice production,” Mr. Dawuni said.
He also announced plans by the Jospong Group and its partners to expand into large-scale commercial agriculture. The focus will include cultivating onions, soya beans, maize, and poultry production alongside rice farming.
He said AAC is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture with these initiatives. By contributing to Ghana’s food security and economic growth, AAC is setting an example for the African continent.