I had the opportunity to participate in the second edition of the AgriFood Future in Selormo, Italy at the invitation of President Andrea Prete of Unioncamere and Professor Alexander Giordano, founder of Rural Hack few weeks ago.
My presence and observations has marked and sparked a mind transformative perspective, of our collective ambition for the future of food and the positioning of Ghana and Africa as a whole, in the overall agrifood future agenda.
What is AgriFood future?
The Agrifood Future is a national event that aims to offer a moment of discussion on food innovations, ecological transition, digital transition and sustainability.
As we may all be aware, the food system is one of the main drivers of change in the world’s ecosystem and is, at the same time, deeply affected by major climate and geopolitical changes.
On the horizon looms the need to feed the 10 billion people who are expected to live on the planet Earth in 2050 and it is, therefore, necessary to rethink the methods of production, processing, transport, packaging and consumption of food to reduce the footprint of these activities on the environment and ecosystems.
Agrifood Future is one of the first events in southern Italy that focuses on 8 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that constitute the vital core of the 2030 Agenda.
The AgriFood Future is dedicated to the future of the agri-food sector. A future that is not only exclusively Italian but global.
It was held in the province of Salerno, which has a high level of economic value in the agri-food sector.
The five(5) day AgriFood future event, was successfully delivered under the theme, Building a Sustainable Business In the Food Systems with AI,
It was a gathering of Agricultural change makers and think tanks in Technology and innovation, passionate young people across Italy who demonstrated through the Summer School, their strategic approaches and power to drive change, actors within the value chain and public and private sector leaders.
For President Prete, Prof Alex and myself, my participation was a commitment to highlight the critical role of cross-continental collaboration in addressing pressing agricultural challenges and capitalizing on opportunities within agritech and food systems. This we all agree is in the right direction.
The Agrifood Future event had two strategic approaches; one key part was leveraging the enthusiasm and innovative capacities of youth to enhance food security, promote sustainable practices, and influence agricultural policies, by connecting young minds.
This was successfully executed through the Summer School.
The other strategic sessions, leveraged on the strengths of experts within the industry to discuss diverse topics in innovation and digital approach which can aid to advance and sustain the future of food.
I could see the program’s immense significance in offering huge benefits to Ghana, Africa and the Caribbean regions through its platform for the exchange of knowledge, technology, and expertise.
The AgriFood Future program for me, represents a much more advanced and crucial mechanism for supporting Africa’s agribusinesses and the broader agricultural ecosystem.
As climate change, shifting consumer demands, and global trade policies reshape the agrifood landscape, the knowledge and technology shared at this event will be instrumental in equipping African countries with the tools needed to thrive.
The event adequately served as an effective facilitator of meaningful collaborations.
As I interacted with fellow participants, it became evident that there is a growing interest in fostering partnerships between African and European institutions.
This was evident also in my forty-five minutes interactive session with President Prete.
Italian stakeholders, like President Prete believes so much in the energies of Africa to solving the global food crisis and the desire for Africans at a large, to be part of further strengthening and developing the AgriFood Future event is a stronger agenda and commitment to the entire organization.
The AgriFood Future participants were particularly impressed with Agrihouse Foundation’s successful advocacy and interventional modules in contributing to the Food security agenda.
The most important part for us all, is our commitment to work together to further expand the AgriFood future event, so more actors across Africa, the Carribean and Meditterean to be a part of this movement of change and to contribute meaningful in all dialogues, that will positively influence our food systems.
As changemakers and influecers in our respective fields, we remain the frontline in the movement to change the food security equation across the globe today.
AgriFood Future believes that the influence from both Africa and the European community can be transformative and thus, the need for a stronger presence in future events and related activities.
I stand with AgriFood Future also, in their submission on Food and its linkage to sustainability.
The future of food and the food chain as a whole is linked to sustainability.We must thus all unite with one call and commitment to promote sustainability, through innovative approaches and technology. This is one major take home, also from the AgriFood future event.
I would also like to place a spotlight on the AgriFood Future’s program flow, set-up and format, which sufficiently allows room for networking and the exchange of ideas, and I found that very invaluable.
The rich tapestry of experiences shared by participants not only inspired dialogue but also paved the way for future projects that can address pressing agricultural issues both locally and globally.
I am optimistic about the future of the agri-food sector.
The collective expertise and innovative ideas presented during AgriFood Future 2024 have the potential to drive significant change in the future of agri-food.An integral demonstration of praiseworthy partnerships that work is what I foresee and anticipate that AgriFood Future platform to be in the next one to three years.
Agrifood Future is a moment of reflection to try to understand the developments in the sector.
With Agrifood, the opportunity is given to delve deeper and discuss everything because food is not just agriculture.
There is a whole supply chain that goes from production to transformation, to logistics, to marketing. Without forgetting tourism which, especially in Italy, is linked to food and wine.
All themes to be developed. There is a much bigger world around the food sector.
I think that, as we move forward, it is crucial to continue expanding the scope of participation from African stakeholders. This inclusivity will ensure that we can tackle challenges such as climate adaptation, financing for smallholder farmers, and sustainable food production more effectively.
With countries like Ghana at the forefront, Africa will be positioned to adopt sustainable farming practices and innovative solutions that cater to its diverse agricultural environments, creating a platform to share rich resources, experiences, and perspectives on food security and sustainability with the global community.
Frankly, I must confess that I am truly humbled by the organizers’ kind decision to honour me with the AgriFood Future Prize award for my contributions to strengthening agri-food systems across Africa, particularly in Ghana. Truly, this recognition assures me that no effort made for good, especially for the good of a society, is ever wasted or unappreciated. This can only encourage people like me, and others who have been so recognized, to do more because, there is so much work to be done out there.
Mr. Andrea Prete’s recognition and commendation of our initiatives in Ghana is particularly appreciated.
The future of Food and particularly, the AgriFood Future is promising and powerful, with its positioning to have an inclusive representation and participation and increasing African voices on the dialogues is essential.
This I believe, would allow for a more comprehensive approach to solving the challenges specific to the continent, such as climate change adaptation, modern agritech adoption, value chain development, and financing for smallholder farmers.
By broadening the scope and discussions and increasing opportunities for African stakeholders to contribute, the program would surely become a vital platform for solving other critical issues like food security, as well as fostering stronger partnerships, thus creating a more interconnected and mutually beneficial global agricultural community.
On the summer school session for students, I think that the event could make room for educational exchanges for students.
This initiative will certainly provide start-ups, students and beginners across the globe, the unique opportunity to learn from leading experts and My experience with the beginners is a true reflection of beginners I work with and those who annually participate in our Agrihouse Foundation’s Agricultural Student Career Guidance and Mentorship Bootcamp.
Youth who keep pushing the boundaries and demonstrating beyond reasonable doubts, that when given the platform or provided the needed resources, they would be able to contribute innovatively to the advancement of our food systems.
Mr. Andrea Prete, the President of Unioncamere, again and appropriately underscored the importance of sustainability and technological innovation in shaping the future of the agri-food sector; with a good stress on the vital place of technological innovation in addressing attendant challenges. Coming from the continent where I come from, I consider all of that a rich takeaway from this forum; and I seriously look forward to the future where Agrihouse Foundation and Unioncamere would be on the field in Africa executing the application of their technological innovation to address our challenges.
The whole conversation on Agriculture and AI was very strong for me, and I believe in the crucial role it can play in helping countries around the world develop cutting-edge agriculture.
I consider it imperative that accessibility to AI should not be the preserve of any particular region of the world but “to everyone…for future growth” as he rightly said.
Africa is a key player in the future of global agriculture and with this understanding, my optimism in strengthening our collaborations with Agrifood Future becomes stronger.
In conclusion, I believe that my participation in the second AgriFood Future in Selormo, Italy, marks a significant step forward for Africa’s agrifood systems.
Surely, this global platform offers Africa a better forum to address its agricultural challenges whilst contributing to the broader conversation on the future of food systems. The program offers not only immediate benefits but also long-term opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and sustainable development that will shape the future of agriculture for generations to come.
Indeed, the Future of Food collaborations to strengthen our Food systems have arrive and I am eager to be part of the 2025 AgriFood Future event and of course, with strong African, Caribbean and a mediterean representation.
Rome is all set to host and witness once again, a gathering of over seven thousand (7000) world experts, impassioned changemakers and visionary leaders of all ages including youth, for the 2024 World food Forum Flagship event.
Mr Victor Muiru, Head of Local Youth Action,World Food Forum -FAO
Slated to be held from October 14 to 18, 2024, the World food Forum flagship event has over the years, remained as a premier global agrifood platform to leverage the power of intergenerational collaboration, on the power of intergenerational collaboration, as well as partnerships and action across policy, science, innovation, education, culture and investment.
Moreover, it is also committed to supporting and growing youth initiatives in the agrifood sector, with a collective mission to co-create actionable solutions to advance agrifood systems transformation, across the globe.
This light but deep-rooted theme put us all on the spotlight to further assess, how our actions are contributing to the future of food and the vision we have for the sustenance of the agrifood sector.
Throughout the week, attendees will participate in a Youth Forum where a Youth Assembly involving young people discussing specific policy topics and issues within agrifood systems will take center stage. The Youth Forum will also feature live pitching sessions, workshops and exhibitions that will highlight groundbreaking agricultural startups and youth-led initiatives, all aimed at driving innovation in the sector. It will also include a Global School Assembly inspiring the next generation of agrifood enthusiasts, advocates and practitioners.
Over fifty(50) WFF National Youth Chapter leaders will also be present best practices in building all-inclusive national youth-led agrifood platforms that would be able to address localized challenges, within the agrifood systems.
Some other key events in the Forum include the Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum, a platform for national authorities to present investment opportunities to investors, development banks, the private sector and donors. The Forum will also involve the Rome Water Dialogue, where experts will address the pressing issue of water scarcity in agriculture and feature a dedicated session on Family Farming.
Within the week is also the slated celebrations of World Food Day. This global event will underscore the commitment to ending hunger and building resilient food systems that can withstand the challenges of tomorrow.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa National Lead, World Food Forum Ghana Chapter
From Ghana, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, World Food Forum Ghana Chapter Lead and Agrihouse Foundation’s Founder, will mount the stage, together with other National Youth Chapter leads from Indonesia, Brazil, Egypt and Ireland to share an African regional perspective and highlight best practices in mobilizing youth-led action at the local level to achieve more sustainable agrifood systems
“I am excited about this impactful opportunity to join, share and engage extraordinary global leaders and youth at the WFF flagship event. It presents an opportunity to further highlight our works as the Ghana Chapter and our interventional modules at Agrihouse Foundation”.
I am equally excited about the learnings from this event and remain committed to leveraging the knowledge and networks acquired to implement local solutions that address the unique challenges our agricultural sector faces. By investing in youth-led initiatives, we can create a more resilient and sustainable future for food systems in our communities.” We are eager to build on these learnings to strengthen the World Food Forum Ghana Chapter – Alberta emphasized.
Anthony Aidoo Steering Committee Chair , World Food Forum Ghana Chapter
Adding his voice, the Steering Committee Chair for the world food forum Ghana Chapter, Anthony Aidoo said, “This event will provide us the unique opportunity to learn and grow the World Food Forum Ghana Chapter.Our International Youth Day activity made significant impact, with intensive media waves and we have a mandate to sustain the gains and impact.The WFF Ghana Chapter is committed to inspiring the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture.We believe that by involving young people in decision-making processes, we can ensure that their perspectives and innovations are reflected in the agrifood system that we develop.
With a mission to empower local farmers and improve rural livelihoods, Italy’s Rural Hack is addressing the unique challenges of rural areas by integrating digital tools with modern farming methods.
Rural Hack, an innovative Italian organization founded as part of the SocietingLAB program, is at the forefront of transforming rural communities and innovative technology solutions that prioritize sustainability and adaptability in agriculture.
By fostering collaboration between farmers, researchers and agribusinesses, Rural Hack is creating a vibrant ecosystem where technology and tradition exist. Its work is redefining the future of agriculture, making it more sustainable, efficient and connected.
Driving Innovation in Agriculture
At the core of Rural Hack’s strategy is the integration of technology into traditional agricultural practices, with modern tools such as mobile farm management applications, data analytics for crop monitoring and precision farming technologies.
These innovations help farmers enhance productivity whilst sustaining vital resources such as water and energy.
The innovative organization’s mission swings between promoting agritech solutions that drive both environmental sustainability and social development.They achieve this by ensuring that smallholder farmers benefit from the latest technological advancements.Education and training are central to Rural Hack’s approach through the medium of hosting workshops, events and digital programs that engage entrepreneurs, students and technology enthusiasts.These programs demonstrate how the right mix of innovation and tradition can transform agriculture, making it more resilient and adaptable to future challenges.
Alex Giordano, the chief scientist of Rural Hack has been a pivotal figure in driving the organization’s vision for transforming agricultural systems through digital innovation and sustainable practices.
With a background in social innovation and digital transformation, Giordano has consistently championed the integration of cutting-edge technology into rural farming practices.
Giordano’s approach emphasizes the importance of blending tradition with innovation. “We are not trying to replace the wisdom of the land but to enhance it with the tools of the future,” he explains.
Prof Alex Giordano is currently considered as one of the leading Italian experts in Social Innovation and Digital Transformation.
Under his leadership, Rural Hack has become a leading force in advancing agritech solutions that benefit smallholder farmers and improve global food security.
Building Global Connections through AgriFood Future
Rural Hack plays a crucial role in creating platforms for global collaboration.
One of its flagship initiatives is the AgriFood Future and the Summer School, an international event that brings together thought leaders, experts, and stakeholders from across the agri-food sector.
Participants engage in discussions and explore the latest innovations in agricultural technology, sustainability and food systems.
At a recent edition of AgriFood Future in Salerno, Italy, Rural Hack was instrumental in facilitating high-level discussions on the future of global food systems. The event brought together farmers, policymakers, and agritech entrepreneurs.The Summer School session at AgriFood Future 2024 by Rural Hack also offered participants and beginners, a valuable opportunity to engage with global experts and explore modern innovations in agritech.Designed to equip the next generation of innovators, the program focused on imparting the knowledge and skills necessary to drive the digital and ecological transformation of agriculture.Over 100 attendees from across Italy gained practical insights into technologies like precision farming, fostering connections within the agrifood sector and addressing its immediate challenges.
Connecting Agri-Food Systems through Technology
Beyond Italy, Rural Hack is poised to make significant impact on agriculture across Africa, with Ghana being a first step into West Africa where such innovative and modern approach to farming is direly needed.
Currently, Kenya, Nigeria and Ghana lead the Agritech market. Consequently, the three countries account for more than half of Africa’s Agritech startups.
Agriculture, in general, is one of Africa’s largest and most vital sector, providing food for its large and growing population, as well as serving as the economic lifeline for many its countries. Yet, Africa still struggles to address the host of challenges confronting the industry.
Therefore, the entrance of a leading agritech giant like Rural Hack into Africa at this period of heightened challenges, aggravated by the lack of the necessary expertise, would significantly help in ramping up the most needed food production in Africa.
Incidentally, by fostering dialogue and collaboration, the organization aims to promote the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies that address Africa’s unique agricultural challenges.
It comes as a positive development, therefore, that the organization is focused on establishing agritech platforms in Africa, with such platforms having direct connection to farmers, whereby post-harvest losses are reduced and the goal of achieving food security is further enhanced.
Success Stories
In Italy, Rural Hack’s precision farming solutions have helped smallholder farmers increase crop yields by 30% whilst reducing water usage by 20%. By employing remote sensors and drones to monitor soil conditions and weather patterns in real-time, farmers can make well-informed decisions on irrigation.
Another notable success of this pace setting agritech organization is the mobile platform that connects farmers directly with local markets, bypassing intermediaries and increasing profits by up to 15%.
This innovation has boosted farmers’ incomes, as well as strengthened local food systems, making them more resilient and efficient.
As reflected by a participant at the recent AgriFood Future event, the mission of this leading global agritech organization is to break down technological barriers and integrate innovation into food systems.
Clearly, it is already helping agriculture to become more resilient, efficient, whilst effectively addressing the needs of a growing global population.
As the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for food. The United Nations estimates that the world will need to produce 70% more food by 2050 to meet the needs of a projected 9.7 billion people.This challenge is compounded by climate change, which threatens to disrupt food production in many parts of the world. Training children in agriculture is a critical step toward ensuring that future generations have the knowledge and skills necessary to produce food sustainably and efficiently.
agricultural education can play a crucial role in promoting health and nutrition. When children learn to grow their own food, they gain a greater appreciation for fresh, healthy produce. This knowledge can translate into better eating habits and a preference for whole, unprocessed foods.
Agriculture teaches children valuable life skills, including responsibility, patience, and problem-solving. Caring for plants and animals requires a level of commitment and attention to detail that can help children develop a strong work ethic. Moreover, by working with the land, children gain a deeper appreciation for the environment and the delicate balance that must be maintained to sustain life.
The challenges of the future climate change, resource scarcity, and food insecurity will require innovative solutions and a deep understanding of agricultural practices.
By training children in agriculture, we are not just preparing them for potential careers in farming; we are equipping them with the tools they need to address some of the most pressing issues of our time.
Whether they become farmers, policymakers, scientists, or informed citizens, children who are educated in agriculture will be better prepared to contribute to a more sustainable and food-secure world.
They will have the knowledge and skills to develop new farming techniques, advocate for sustainable policies, and make informed decisions that benefit both people and the planet.
Agrihouse Foundation in partnership with ,Driven Concept, successfully hosted the Junior Farmers Mentorship Day, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing a love for agriculture among children.
The Mentorship Day brought together children aged between three and ten years, instilling in them a sense of responsibility and appreciation for sustainable agricultural practices provided young participants with a unique opportunity to learn the basics of gardening and understand the benefits of growing their own food.
Through hands-on training sessions, the children were taught how to set up and maintain their own backyard gardens, with lessons on soil basics and composition, safety guidelines, an introduction to gardening tools, and practical gardening experience.
Each child received a comprehensive startup pack, including seeds, seed trays, fertilizers, and compost, to help them apply their new skills at home and foster a lasting interest in gardening.
Speaking at the event, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, emphasized the importance of cultivating an early interest in agriculture. “Our goal with the Junior Farmers Mentorship Day is to inspire a new generation of agricultural enthusiasts. By teaching children, the basics of gardening and the benefits of growing their own food, we aim to foster a lifelong appreciation for agriculture and sustainability,” she stated.By introducing children to agriculture at a young age, we can lay the foundation for a generation that understands the importance of food security.
They will learn where their food comes from, how it is grown, and the challenges involved in food production. This knowledge will not only make them more conscious consumers but also inspire some to pursue careers in agriculture, thereby contributing to the global effort to secure our food supply.
“We believe that empowering children with practical agricultural knowledge at an early age is essential for building a food-secure future. This program not only educates them on the importance of agriculture but also equips them with the skills they need to start their own gardens and understand the value of self-sufficiency,” she remarked.
The children themselves were excited to share what they had learned during the day. Agyeiwaa Abena Boakye Agyeman , a 10-year-old participant, said, “I learned how to plant seeds and take care of them. I’m going to start a garden at home with the seeds they gave me.” Jaden Otu Nana Darko , an 8-year-old attendee, added, “I didn’t know much about soil, but now I know how important it is to have good soil for plants to grow well.”
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa added that this initiative is part of Agrihouse Foundation’s broader mission to promote agricultural education and awareness across all age groups. “By engaging children in hands-on agricultural activities, we believe we can contribute to the development of a more sustainable and food-secure future,” she noted.
The Junior Farmers Mentorship Day is one of many initiatives spearheaded by Driven Concept and Agrihouse Foundation aimed at supporting and empowering individuals within the agricultural sector. Through events like this, these organizations continue to play a vital role in promoting agricultural education, innovation, and community engagement.
Agrihouse Foundation continue to play a vital role in promoting agricultural education, innovation, and community engagement through initiatives like the Junior Farmers Mentorship Day. Parents and guardians interested in future events or seeking more information are encouraged to contact Joseph at 0570246813 or Alberta at 0244623012.
Agribusiness advocate, intervener, initiator and the Founder of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa has been decorated as the first ever African to be named South America’s Rally Mulheres do Agro Ambassador. The ceremony took place in the State of Pará, the second-largest state in Brazil. This prestigious honor is a testament to Alberta’s unwavering commitment, profound impact and dedicated service to agriculture in Ghana.
The Rally Mulheres do Agro Ambassador Award recognizes exceptional women in agriculture who have made significant contributions to the sector. Since its inception, this award has honored female leaders who exhibit excellence, innovation and leadership.
It celebrates the pivotal role women play in advancing agricultural practices, driving economic growth and promoting sustainable development within their communities and beyond.
As the Rally Mulheres do Agro Ambassador, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa will play a crucial role in strengthening agribusiness trade between Ghana and Brazil. Her focus will be on facilitating knowledge exchange, fostering collaborations and creating opportunities for mutual growth and development.
Alberta will also help promote and strengthen the work of women in agriculture in Ghana alongside Rally Mulheres do Agro through practical actions and communication via events.
This partnership aims to empower and mobilize many women in agriculture, providing them with visibility and support, enhanced women farmers with skills and knowledge and technological innovations in agriculture.
Speaking at the event, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa ,expressed her profound gratitude to the Rally Mulheres do Agro. She stated that this recognition for our work in agriculture in Ghana and beyond has prompted deep reflection on her journey in the agricultural field, from humble beginnings to this significant moment.
“Being recognized thousands of miles from my birth and home country and having flown over 1000’s miles to Pará to receive this honorary title as South America’s Rally Mulheres do Agro Ambassador makes me believe there is still hope and light at the end of the tunnel and rekindles my hope for the future of agriculture.” Reflecting on the honor, it is humbling to be acknowledged by those who see the impact of our work on youth, women, farmers with disabilities, smallholders, commercial farmers, and value chain players’’
“This recognition is not just for me, but for all women who dare to dream. It is for every woman who persists with passion and determination, who understands and nurtures her inner potential.
It is for every woman who faces battles, challenges, and difficulties—both internal and external—yet continues to press on.
she also acknowledged the Former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana, Naana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings for being a pioneer for women empowerment and for setting the pace for women like herself to follow.
‘’This is also for every woman who falls and rises again, who embodies the spirit of resilience. You are Ko-Na-Du—keep on fighting, keep on challenging yourself. You are a success; keep going! To every woman who questions her purpose and path, keep up and keep on. In due time, your passion, energy, and efforts will find their true meaning.
The right time has come for us to have a global platform where women gather annually to enlighten, shape our growth, trade, network, and redefine our pathways of hope, growth, and advancement,” she added.
“As the Global Agricultural Ambassador, I am now entrusted with the responsibility to use my voice to advocate for women from other African communities, highlighting the importance of growing agriculture with a global mindset and approach. We will strive to ensure strong African representation and participation in this event annually’’.
I however encourage Brazilian Embassies and missions across Africa to recognize the invaluable contributions of women in facilitating global trade. Support more women from African regions to participate in future events, as we work together towards a brighter future for agriculture worldwide.”
Marcelo Souza, the Chief Executive Officer of Grupo Manancial and chief editor of Revista Agrícola and Mulheres do Agro magazines, expressed confidence in Alberta’s appointment. He believes that Alberta’s work will inspire millions of women in Brazil, Ghana, and beyond, and that her role as the first international ambassador will pave the way for greater collaboration and empowerment in the agricultural sector.
“Alberta’s admiration, to empowering women in agriculture is exemplary. Her leadership and advocacy have already made significant impacts in Ghana, and we are excited to see how her influence will expand through her role as our ambassador. This appointment is a testament to her unwavering commitment and the transformative power of her work,” Marcelo stated.
Her appointment as the South American Global Agricultural Ambassador marks a significant milestone in the journey towards gender equality and empowerment in agriculture. Her leadership and vision will undoubtedly inspire and drive positive change across the agricultural landscapes of both continents. He concluded.
The two-day event brought together women farmers and agribusiness professionals from different continents to share insights and experiences. On the second day, attendees participated in an innovative field tour, driving Toyota pickup trucks to visit a farm managed by a 24-year-old woman cultivating 260,000 acres of soybeans, as well as crops of sugarcane and millet. The tour also included a visit to a passion fruit farm and a fish pond site.
Adding her voice, Mairis Decidido, President of Fundadora do Agro e Elas in the State of Pará, expressed her excitement about the program and the valuable connections and partnerships formed.
“We hope that the relationships established between Ghana, Brazil, and South America will be strengthened through this collaboration. It is my hope that, in the coming years, we will visit Ghana to share their experiences and explore ways to work together to advance the role of women in farming through innovative approaches and scaling up the agriculture sector.”
She also expressed enthusiasm for working with Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa and Agrihouse Foundation to further enhance the global network of women in agriculture. “We are excited about this partnership and are optimistic that, in the future, more Africans will be part of this global community,” she added
H.E. Ambassador Abena P.A. Busia, Ghana’s Ambassador to Brazil extended a warm invitation to Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa in her residence following her recognition as South America’s Rally Mulheres do Agro Ambassador. H.E. Busia expressed admiration for Alberta’s dedication and achievements in agribusiness, highlighting the significance of her recognition in Brazil. She noted that such an honor underscores Alberta’s excellence and the impact of her work.
Ambassador Busia conveyed her pride in Alberta’s transformative initiatives in Ghanaian agriculture, emphasizing the positive changes and empowerment she brings to women and youth and looking forward to future collaborations, aiming to strengthen agribusiness ties between Ghana and Brazil.
Alberta expressed her gratitude, noting, “I am humbled and happy to Her Excellency, Abena Busia, Ghana’s Ambassador to Brazil and with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Ghana.” She also passionately encouraging more women to engage in agriculture, advocating for increased participation and robust support from various stakeholders and believes women can drive significant growth and innovation in agribusiness. Her advocacy is a clarion call for enhanced educational opportunities, mentorship and access to markets, empowering women to lead and thrive in the agricultural landscape
Alberta’s Rally Mulheres do Agro ambassadorship will give wide visibility to her excellent work in Ghana. This partnership aims to create support networks and partnerships with African women who need support, spotlight and recognition for their contributions to agriculture.
And also help create a platform for agribusinesses in both countries to collaborate, innovate and expand their markets, contributing to the growth and diversification of agribusinesses. Efforts will include organizing women farmers’ trade missions, promoting agricultural investment opportunities and sharing technological advancements in farming.
The Country Manager for Yara Ghana Limited, Madam Theresa Randolph, has called for collective action among the Government and Stakeholders in the agricultural value chain to overcome barriers to women in agribusiness.
Speaking at the 6th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) and Gold in the Soil Awards, organized by Agrihouse Foundation in the Bono Region, Madam Randolph highlighted the undeniable importance of agribusiness to Ghana’s economy, contributing over 20% to the nation’s GDP. She emphasized that agribusiness encompasses more than just farming; it involves the entire value chain, presenting significant opportunities for growth, poverty eradication, and climate change mitigation.
Despite the critical role of agribusiness, she acknowledged the numerous challenges farmers face in the sector. She pointed out that these challenges are even more pronounced for women farmers, farmers with disabilities, and women in agribusiness, who often face additional hurdles such as lack of land ownership, limited access to finance, and restricted market opportunities.
She therefore called on the government to implement policies that ensure equal land rights for women and promote their access to financial services. According to her, legal reforms should be put in place to protect women’s property rights and facilitate their ownership of land and assets.
She also stressed the need to sustainably improve agricultural productivity to meet increasing demand, enhance the efficiency and resilience of food systems, and improve income opportunities in rural areas.
“Overcoming these barriers requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including governments, private sector entities, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies. Stakeholders should work to improve women’s access to high-quality agricultural inputs and technologies.
Additionally, efforts should be made to connect women farmers with local and international markets, enabling them to achieve better prices for their produce. Providing women with education and training in modern agricultural practices, business management, and sustainable farming techniques is crucial. Extension services and capacity-building programs should be tailored to meet the specific needs of women,” she remarked.
“Empowering women in agribusiness is not just a matter of fairness; it is essential for the sustainable development of the agricultural sector and the broader economy.
By addressing the barriers that women face and creating an enabling environment for their full participation, we can unlock the potential of women farmers and contribute to a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.
All stakeholders must work together to support women in agriculture, ensuring that they have the resources, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive,” Randolph remarked.
Yara Ghana Limited has, for the past decade, been at the forefront of supporting agribusiness development, with a special focus on women and persons with disabilities.
Through partnerships in programs like WOFAGRIC and the Gold in the Soil Awards, and other agricultural value chain initiatives, Yara Ghana has worked to break barriers, create opportunities, and improve the efficiency of food systems by providing farmers with quality and efficient crop solutions and agronomic knowledge to increase yields and improve crop quality in an environmentally responsible manner.
The Country Manager also spotlighted Yara Ghana’s commitment to innovation and technology in agriculture, citing initiatives such as digital farming solutions and tailored agronomic training programs.
A notable example of Yara Ghana’s impactful initiatives is the recently concluded Grow Ghana Initiative.
Launched in response to the challenges faced by farmers due to the COVID-19 crisis and the Russia-Ukraine war, which impacted access to affordable fertilizers, Yara International donated premium YaraMila Actyva fertilizer valued at USD 20 million to smallholder farmers in Ghana. This donation reduced their cost per acre by 33.3% and enhanced food system resilience.
Supported by partners such as AFAP, AGRA, and USAID, the Grow Ghana Initiative increased staple crop productivity, created jobs for over 500 youth, and provided vital agronomic knowledge to boost productivity.
The initiative not only improved agricultural productivity but also enhanced livelihoods and contributed to food security in Ghana. These efforts are geared towards breaking barriers and creating opportunities for farmers, particularly women.
Madam Randolph expressed pride in Yara Ghana’s collaboration with the Agrihouse Foundation for the past six years to organize the Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) and Gold in the Soil Awards.
She recognized their shared commitment to supporting farmers towards sustainable agriculture and resilience. She urged all stakeholders to collaborate for a vibrant and inclusive agricultural sector benefiting farmers, communities, and the nation.
Adding her voice, Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, expressed profound gratitude for Yara Ghana’s steadfast partnership with the Agrihouse Foundation for the Women in Agricultural Training and Leadership Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards over the past six years.
“Yara Ghana has been instrumental in advancing the status of women in agriculture in Ghana through the Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and The Gold in The Soil Awards.
Their continued support enables us to create opportunities for women to thrive in agriculture, contributing to Ghana’s economic growth and advancing gender equality,” Ms. Akosa remarked.
She elaborated on the importance of this collaboration, noting that the sustained partnership with Yara Ghana has enabled the foundation to expand its reach and impact.
“With Yara Ghana’s support, we have been able to provide training and resources to thousands of women farmers, helping them improve their productivity and livelihoods. This partnership has also allowed us to advocate more effectively for policy changes that benefit women in agriculture.”
Ms. Akosa highlighted some success stories from past awardees, showcasing how recognition and support have transformed their agricultural practices and lives. “These women are not just farmers; they are innovators, leaders, and role models in their communities. By sharing their stories and achievements, we inspire more women to pursue careers in agriculture and contribute to the nation’s food security.”
Ms. Akosa called for more stakeholders to join the cause, stressing that collective effort is crucial for achieving long-term sustainability. “We need more partners like Yara Ghana who are committed to making a difference. Together, we can overcome the barriers that women face and create a more inclusive and equitable agricultural sector,” she remarked.
About Yara GhanaYara Ghana Limited was established in 2007 to strengthen the quality and depth of input supply and related services along agricultural value chains in the country. Yara Ghana’s key focus has been on providing Ghanaian farmers with knowledge, crop nutrition solutions, and digital technologies that can help them improve their yields and quality in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.
