For over a decade, I have been deeply passionate about an industrialization effort that has the potential to transform Ghana’s agricultural sector and overr economy – the establishment of a domestic fertilizer production facility, specifically for urea.
Urea, a widely used fertilizer, is produced from natural gas, a resource that Ghana is fortunate to possess in significant quantities. By utilizing a portion of our natural gas reserves, we can create a sustainable and competitive agricultural sector, reduce our dependence on imports, and empower farmers across the country.
The Need for Domestic Fertilizer Production
As the world continues to advance, fertilizers have become indispensable for crop production. Countries that produce their own fertilizers have a competitive edge in food security and agricultural productivity. For Ghana, producing fertilizers locally is not just a matter of convenience but a necessity for reducing our reliance on imports and addressing critical inefficiencies in the agricultural supply chain.
Currently, Ghana imports approximately 100,000 metric tonnes of urea annually. These imports, subsidized by the government, are often subject to smuggling, depriving local farmers of the resources they need. This annual demand for urea could easily be met by utilizing about 11 MMSCFD (million standard cubic feet per day) of natural gas. Given that Ghana’s gas fields currently produce over 200–300 MMSCFD, the potential to establish a domestic fertilizer production facility is well within reach.
The Broader Benefits of Local Fertilizer Production
Beyond meeting local demand, producing fertilizers domestically would bring numerous benefits:
- Empowering Farmers: From food crop producers to cocoa growers, farmers would gain reliable access to fertilizers at competitive prices. This would directly impact crop yields and food security.
- Reducing Government Subsidy Burden: By producing fertilizers locally, Ghana can significantly reduce the costs associated with importing and subsidizing fertilizers.
- Creating Jobs: A domestic fertilizer production facility would create jobs across the value chain, from natural gas processing to fertilizer distribution.
- Boosting Exports: Surplus production could be exported to neighboring countries, generating additional revenue for the nation.
A Vision for National Development
This initiative aligns with a broader vision for Ghana’s development. It is a practical and impactful strategy that leverages our natural resources to drive growth in agriculture, one of the backbones of our economy. Fertilizer production in Ghana could also play a significant role in addressing food insecurity and positioning the country as an agricultural powerhouse in the region.
A Strategic Opportunity
The time is ripe for Ghana to take this step. With natural gas production exceeding local energy requirements, we have the opportunity to channel excess gas into high-value industries like fertilizer production. This could be a cornerstone initiative for leaders and policymakers seeking to make a meaningful impact on Ghana’s economy.
Farmers across the country, from smallholder food crop producers to large-scale cocoa growers, would undoubtedly rally behind a commitment to produce fertilizers locally. This initiative would not only provide a vital resource for agriculture but also symbolize a nation taking control of its future.
Conclusion
Establishing a fertilizer production facility in Ghana is more than just an economic opportunity—it is a national imperative. By utilizing our natural gas resources effectively, we can transform our agricultural sector, reduce dependence on imports, and empower farmers to achieve greater productivity. This vision is not only feasible but necessary for Ghana’s growth and self-reliance. It’s a step toward a stronger, more sustainable future for our country.
Profile – Andy Sevordzi
Andy Sevordzi is a seasoned Licensed Professional Engineer with over 15 years of expertise in oil and gas processing, renewable energy, and industrial facility design. He has led transformative projects for global industry leaders, including ExxonMobil, Enbridge, and Shell, securing two patents in advanced energy processes and publishing 11 papers. His thought leadership includes delivering impactful presentations on natural gas engineering and energy systems at international conferences.
Currently, Andy serves as Manager of Capital Projects at the Offshore and Joint Ventures Division of Enbridge, a Fortune 500 company, where he oversees complex energy projects and optimizes asset performance. He is also the Executive Director of Gilma Research and Consulting, driving impactful research and policy solutions in energy and sustainability.
Andy holds an MBA from MIT Sloan, where he had the privilege of being taught by a Nobel Laureate, an MSc in Chemical Engineering from Stanford University, an MSc in Natural Gas Engineering from Texas A&M University, and professional certificates in Contract Law from Harvard University and AI and Machine Learning from MIT. He is currently pursuing a doctorate at Purdue University.
A member of the Gas Processors Association, Andy actively collaborates within professional networks to advance the energy sector. Licensed by the SEC as an Investment Adviser Representative, he bridges the gap between technical innovation and financial strategy, advising on sustainable energy investments. His work reflects a commitment to operational excellence, collaboration, and creating forward-thinking solutions that shape the future of energy.
