Agribusiness, Sustainable Jobs, and Youth Unemployment: Lessons from Ghana

Abstract

Agro-processing export firms can play a key role in addressing labour casualisation and youth unemployment in Ghana. However, many firms face both internal and external challenges that are affecting their contribution to the sustainability of jobs for youth in the country. This IDS Policy Briefing uses a case study of one Ghanaian agro-processor and exporter, Blue Skies Holdings Ltd. – which employs over 4,000 people, the majority of whom are female youth – to explore the challenges these companies are facing. It concludes with recommendations for the Ghanaian government to increase agricultural production and diversify export markets to create more jobs for youth.