A biophysical analysis of agricultural production in Ghana: History and potential for food self-sufficiency

The extensive farming system still prevails in Ghana. In spite of this, the FAO has reported a decline in under-nourishment for Ghana. I analyzed the potential of the extensive system for this achievement. I used empirical data to analyze the efficiency land, labor and fertilizer on food production in Ghana. I also developed and used a computer model that predicts population growth and food production till 2031. The results indicate increasing trends in per capita food production and dietary energy supply. The increase however, has been due mainly to increases in acreage and labor. Fertilizer use in the country is very minimal and contributes very little to food production. The extensive system has been capable of supporting the food requirements in Ghana. Its future potential is however, limited since land area remains the same. Therefore neither extensification nor intensification can be counted on to feed the expected population.