Ghana has a growing banana industry, which focuses on both export and local consumption. Banana production is concentrated in the southern regions, with small and medium-sized farms making up the majority of the industry. While bananas are not Ghana’s primary agricultural export, the country has increased production for regional markets and exports to Europe, though infrastructure challenges remain.
Human Rights: Ghana has a relatively strong human rights record in West Africa, with constitutional protections for freedoms of speech, assembly, and the press. However, there are concerns about human rights violations in the northern regions, where ethnic and religious conflicts occur. The rights of women and children, particularly regarding education and healthcare, also require further attention.
Labour Rights: Labour laws in Ghana protect workers’ rights, including the right to organise and form unions. However, many workers, particularly in informal sectors such as agriculture and domestic work, experience poor conditions and lack access to labour protections.
Women in the banana industry
In Ghana, women contribute to the production of bananas and plantains, particularly in the southern and central regions. While women are involved in the agricultural aspects of banana farming, they are often underrepresented in higher-paying managerial and technical roles. They are also more likely to be employed in post-harvest processing and marketing.
| Population | 34.4 million |
| Gross Domestic Product | 76,370 million US$ |
| Agriculture | 18.3% of GDP |
| Total Land Area | 22.75 million ha |
| Cultivated Land | 32.6% |
| Banana Production Area | 9.2K ha |
| Total Banana Production | 109.9K tonnes |
| ITUC Global Rights Index | Rating 2 (Repeated violations of rights) |
| Sources: FAO, World Bank | |
| All data from 2023 unless stated |