Prophet Isaac Ofosuhene Gyimah, founder of Captain Jesus Prayer House, has called on the Ghanaian government to support young people in agriculture by providing tractors and mechanised farming equipment. This initiative aims to encourage youth participation in farming, boost local food production, create employment, and reduce Ghana's dependence on imported food crops. With a passion for agriculture spanning over four decades, Prophet Gyimah believes that empowering the youth with necessary machinery and support can significantly impact the nation's food security and economic development.
Prophet Gyimah's interest in agriculture dates back to his school days, when he sold farm produce to his schoolmates. His farming activities have since expanded, with farms established in different parts of Ghana, including the Eastern, Western, and Volta regions. He attributes his continued involvement in farming to his love for Ghana and his desire to contribute to national development. Prophet Gyimah's farming journey was also influenced by his upbringing in a farming community and the biblical account of Peter the fisherman.
Prophet Gyimah believes that greater investment in agriculture can help address unemployment and social challenges in Ghana. He argues that increased domestic food production would reduce the need for Ghana to rely heavily on imported food crops. A stronger agricultural sector could also contribute to the success of the government's 24-hour economy initiative by creating sustained economic activity, employment, and opportunities along the agricultural value chain.
Prophet Gyimah urges young Ghanaians not to allow negative perceptions about farming to prevent them from entering the sector. He encourages young people with the right passion, knowledge, and commitment to build successful careers and businesses in agriculture. According to him, agriculture is a potentially lucrative venture when approached with proper planning and dedication.
Prophet Gyimah stresses that his appeal to the government is not for personal financial assistance but for practical interventions that could make farming more productive and attractive to more people. He calls for investment in post-harvest infrastructure, including storage and processing facilities, to prevent farmers from losing their produce after investing considerable time and resources in cultivation.
Prophet Gyimah's support for agriculture goes beyond verbal encouragement; he also assists people who want to venture into farming. He currently cultivates tomatoes, pepper, okro, and other crops at his farm in Ashaiman. With increased mechanisation, improved post-harvest infrastructure, knowledge-sharing, and greater youth participation, Prophet Gyimah believes Ghana can increase food production, reduce food losses, create jobs, and strengthen the contribution of agriculture to the national economy.
Prophet Gyimah's farming activities have been blessed with success over the years, including receiving rainfall even when he cultivated during the dry season. He attributes his success to God's favour and his commitment to contributing to Ghana's development. As the founder of Captain Jesus Prayer House, Prophet Gyimah continues to encourage and support young people in agriculture, urging the government to prioritise agricultural support for the youth.
Key points
- Prophet Gyimah urges the government to provide tractors and mechanised equipment to young people to encourage them to venture into agriculture.
- Increased investment in agriculture can help address unemployment and social challenges in Ghana.
- Prophet Gyimah encourages young Ghanaians to pursue careers in agriculture, describing it as a potentially lucrative venture.