US invests $440,480 in Climate-Smart Dried fruits production to boost trade, create jobs in Ghana
The United States Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is investing $440,480 (over GH¢7 million) in dried fruit production to boost trade and create jobs in Ghana.
This funding will expand the processing capacity of Pure and Just Limited, a Ghanaian company that transforms fresh fruit like mango, papaya, pineapple, and banana,into all-natural dried products through climate-smart agro-processing.
“U.S. government efforts are boosting agricultural productivity, increasing local ownership and strengthening businesses right here in the Eastern Region and across Ghana. Pure and Just is a shining example of how such investments can unlock Ghana’s economic and agricultural potential,” said USAID/Ghana Acting Mission Director, Grace Lang, during the opening of the expanded Pure and Just
factory in Nsawam.
“This facility represents more than just an investment in infrastructure; it embodies a commitment to innovation, quality, and the future of Ghana’s agro-processing sector,” she added.
The expanded factory built under the USAID-supported Feed the Future Africa Trade and Investment Activity, is equipped with advanced fruit-drying machines which can process 6 tons of fresh fruits per day—an upgrade from the previous 1 ton per day. The factory has the potential to process 144 tons of fresh fruits a year, generate GH¢28 million in annual revenue, create jobs, and provide economic opportunities for up to 1,500 farmers.
“This is a big break for us!” explained Yvette Tetteh, Chief Executive Officer of Pure and Just.
“We are also celebrating our first export of seven metric tons of dried fruits to Germany. This is a significant milestone for Ghana’s agro-processing industry, and with USAID’s support, we look forward to entering the U.S. market in the coming year,” she added. The United States is Ghana’s largest development partner. In 2023, bilateral support through USAID totaled over $140 million dedicated to supporting economic growth and agriculture, health, education, and more.
USAID
USAID is the lead U.S. government agency that works to end extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realise their potential. USAID’s activities and strategic partnerships support Ghana to advance an integrated approach to development, promoting accountability, sustainable systems, and inclusive development.
Feed the Future is the U.S. government’s global hunger and food security initiative led by USAID.