Youth Agricultural Land Access Dimensions and Emerging Challenges Under the Customary Tenure System in Ghana

The youth constitute an important human capital for the socio-economic growth and development of Ghana. As an agrarian economy, land remains a key resource in national economic development. Consequently, youth access to agricultural land is crucial in harnessing their potential for increased agricultural production. This study examines youth access to agricultural land dimensions under the customary system in Ghana. Using Techiman area as a case study, the study employed multiple sampling techniques to select the study communities and the respondents. In all, 455 youth and 23 elder respondents were covered. The results revealed that the youth have limited access to land for agricultural purpose on permanent basis. Land access mechanisms which convey temporary and limited rights such as licence and rentals were more popular among the youth respondents. This undermines their ability to make long-term investments and participate in cash crop cultivation. The study recommends a targeted youth agricultural land policy by government that will leverage the potential of the youth for increased agricultural production in the country.