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Demand for processed foods creates new growth opportunities for Ghana’s food industry A rapidly growing urban population and an expanding middle class is driving demand for processed foods in Ghana. Although these presents new opportunities for the food industry, the sector must overcome existing obstacles if it is to fully exploit the opportunities that abound. By Paul Ongeto
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hana’s food industry is one characterized by immense potential for growth. Demand for processed food in the West African country is at an all time high driven by a highly urbanized population and a large and expanding middle class. Already at 54 percent, Ghana’s urban population is significantly more than most of sub-Saharan Africa, where urbanization
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averages at 37 percent. The African Development Bank (AfDB) estimates that Ghana’s urban population is expected to increase at 3.1% per annum in the coming years, creating further demand for processed foods. What’s more, 20% of Ghana’s 31 million people fall within the middle-income bracket, according to AfDB estimates. With high incomes, these Ghanaians are seeking greater dietary diversity putting further stress on the food industry to deliver an MAY/JUNE 2022 | FOOD BUSINESS AFRICA
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