Ghanaian lawyer and entrepreneur Richard Nunekpeku has urged young people to approach agriculture as a business that requires proper planning, investment and technical knowledge.
According to him, farming should not be viewed simply as traditional work but as an enterprise capable of generating sustainable returns when properly managed.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with My Story Magazine, Mr Nunekpeku, the founder of Anyako Farms Limited and managing partner at Sustineri Attorneys, said young farmers must understand the realities and risks involved in agriculture.
He cited access to suitable land, irrigation, expertise and realistic financial projections as some of the key factors entrepreneurs must consider before investing in farming.
Mr Nunekpeku recalled losing money after cultivating about 120 acres of maize while relying on rainfall, an experience that prompted him to invest in an irrigation system.
He said farmers must also combine practical farming knowledge with science, including understanding soil nutrients and using the appropriate seeds, fertilisers and chemicals.
Mr Nunekpeku, who previously worked with Guinness Ghana Breweries, PZ Cussons and Samsung Electronics, later ventured into agriculture before pursuing a career in law.
He was recognised as Agriculture Man of the Year at the 2019 EMY Awards for his work with Anyako Farms.
He encouraged young people to learn from the experiences of others while developing their own paths.
“For young people, my best advice is to be yourself, do what is right and stay on track. The dots always connect,” he said.
