Ernest: The Ghanaian Banker-Turned-Farmer Who Found Success in Aquaculture
Ernest, a Ghanaian farmer based in Accra and Kumasi, is the proud founder of ERow Farms. A former student of Sunyani Technical Institute, where he studied Computer Science, Ernest has successfully transitioned into full-time farming, focusing on animal farming and aquaculture—particularly tilapia and catfish.
Speaking on his journey, Ernest revealed that his venture into farming was born out of research and necessity.
“I realized that depending on one source of income wouldn’t be enough. So, I did my research and discovered that farming, if done properly, can be very profitable. We bought land, and when we found water on it, we decided to use it for aquaculture,” he explained.
While working with a financial institution, Ernest managed to develop his farming business alongside his professional career. However, balancing both became challenging.
“I worked in the banking sector but later resigned and stayed home for two years to fully focus on my farm and build it up. In Ghana, salaries alone can’t sustain you—especially if you’re a family man. Even earning GHC 5,000 a month isn’t enough,” he noted.
Ernest runs the farm with his wife, and together they’ve built a sustainable business that now supports their family.
“Farming is profitable if you do it right. You can even make up to 200% returns. When we started, we faced many challenges—feed prices kept increasing, and people discouraged us. But after three years, we began to see real growth,” he said proudly.
He emphasized that modern farming requires investment, consistency, and personal involvement.
“You can’t be an absentee farmer; your workers will ruin the business for you. You must be hands-on,” he advised.
Ernest revealed that, after expenses such as feed and maintenance, he can earn up to GHC 20,000 from fish farming. His dedication and hard work have earned him three awards for excellence in agriculture.
“Farming has given me more money than my university education ever did,” he said with a smile. “When we started, people doubted us, but now they see the results. Farming is no longer for poor people—it’s a business for those who are serious and strategic.”
Today, ERow Farms stands as a shining example of how determination, research, and faith in one’s vision can turn a dream into a thriving enterprises.
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