verview
The Western/Central Regional Branch of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), led by Regional Chairman Mr. J.C. Garbrah, undertook a working visit to Benso Oil Palm Plantation (BOPP). The engagement formed part of AGI’s ongoing industry outreach to strengthen collaboration with member companies and assess sector performance.

The AGI delegation was received by BOPP’s Acting General Manager, Mr. Kwasi Baah Ofori, and key management personnel: Mr. Benjamin Appiah-Manuh (Financial Controller), Mr. Gordon Yeboah (Estate Department), Mrs. Margaret Kainyah (Human Resource Department) and Mr. Samuel Oteng (Finance).

Key Findings

Operational Challenges
– Market Distortion from Smuggled Edible Oil: The local oil palm industry faces unfair competition from smuggled edible oil. Illegally imported refined oil retails at GHS 420–450, significantly undercutting BOPP’s locally produced edible oil priced around GHS 500. This price disparity, driven by tax evasion and non-compliance with regulatory standards by smugglers, erodes market share for compliant local producers and threatens sector sustainability.
– Labour Constraints: Rising labour costs and high attrition, driven partly by the lure of illegal mining (galamsey) activities.
– Land Availability: Expansion efforts constrained by limited access to suitable land for cultivation.
– Galamsey Threat: While plantations remain unaffected, the potential loss of expansion land to illegal mining presents a significant long-term risk.

Strategic Contributions & Impact
– Scale of Operations: Approximately 4,750 hectares of company-owned oil palm plantation.
– Outgrower Scheme: Supports 468 beneficiary families cultivating ∼2,000 hectares, enhancing rural livelihoods.
– Employment: Provides direct employment to ∼2,000 people.
– Community Development: Delivers healthcare services, educational support, and alternative livelihood training in bakery, poultry, and swine production to surrounding communities.
– Stakeholder Relations: Maintains strong ties with local communities and traditional authorities, contributing to plantation security.

Sector Development & Policy Input:
BOPP commended the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) for its sectoral interventions and acknowledged the government’s establishment of the Oil Palm Development Institute. The company further called on AGI to engage the government to accelerate implementation of the 100,000-hectare oil palm plantation policy.

Conclusion
Despite prevailing market and operational challenges, particularly the threat posed by smuggled edible oil, BOPP demonstrates resilience through innovation, sustainable practices, and significant community impact. AGI acknowledges the commitment of BOPP’s management and appreciates the Regional Chairman, Mr. J.C. Garbrah, and the visiting team for facilitating this engagement.