by Linda Boateng | Jul 9, 2024 | News
Hon. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey, has called for the implementation of policies that make local poultry production more competitive to promote food security and agribusiness in Ghana.
Speaking at Agrihouse Foundation’s 4th edition of Ghana Poultry Day on Monday, July 1st, 2024, at the forecourt of the State House, Hon. Agyeman-Rawlings, who also served as the executive judge of the event, emphasized the need for cost-effective local poultry production. She highlighted that by reducing reliance on imports and enhancing the agribusiness sector, Ghana can significantly improve its food security.
“The government must implement policies that make local poultry production more competitive. By promoting agribusiness and making local poultry production cost-effective, we can reduce our reliance on imports and enhance food security,” she stated.
Hon. Agyeman-Rawlings also pointed out specific areas where government intervention could make a significant impact. She suggested subsidies for local poultry farmers to reduce production costs, investment in modern farming technologies, and improved access to financing for small and medium-scale poultry enterprises.
“Subsidies for local poultry farmers would help reduce production costs, making it easier for them to compete with imported poultry products. Additionally, investing in modern farming technologies and providing better access to financing can empower small and medium-scale poultry enterprises, driving growth and sustainability in the sector,” she added.
Furthermore, Hon. Agyeman-Rawlings advocated for enhanced training and capacity-building programs for poultry farmers, which would equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to improve productivity and quality. She also called for strengthening the regulatory framework to ensure quality standards and food safety in the poultry industry.
“Enhanced training and capacity-building programs for our poultry farmers are essential. By equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge, we can improve productivity and quality. Strengthening the regulatory framework to ensure quality standards and food safety will also build consumer confidence in locally produced poultry products,” she remarked.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 9, 2024 | News
The Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture in charge of Livestock,Hon. Alhaji Hardi Tufeiru, has called on the youth to invest in the poultry sector, citing its vast potential for growth and development. He highlighted the numerous opportunities within the sector that, if leveraged by young people, could significantly reduce the unemployment rate.
Alhaji Tufeiru made these remarks at Agrihouse Foundation’s 4th edition of Ghana Poultry Day, held on Monday, July 1st, 2024, at the forecourt of the State House. He emphasized that the poultry sector holds immense promise for young entrepreneurs willing to explore it.
the Deputy Minister mentioned that the government, through the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, has devised a comprehensive plan to address the deficits within the poultry sector over the next five years. He outlined that this plan includes support mechanisms for individuals who choose to venture into poultry farming.
“The government is committed to bridging the gap in the poultry sector and has established support systems for anyone who signs up,” Alhaji Tufeiru stated. He encouraged the youth to take advantage of these opportunities, emphasizing that investing in poultry could lead to sustainable livelihoods and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
The Ghana Poultry Day event, organized by Agrihouse Foundation, served as a platform to showcase innovations in the poultry industry and discuss strategies to enhance its development. It attracted stakeholders from various sectors, including farmers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, all dedicated to advancing Ghana’s poultry industry.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 9, 2024 | News
Agrihouse Foundation, in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada and YARA Ghana Limited and the Bono Regional Agriculture Directorate , proudly opens the 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards today, Tuesday, July 9th, through Wednesday, July 10th, 2024.
This year’s event takes place at Sunyani Technical University in the Bono Region under the theme, “OVERCOMING THE BARRIERS TO WOMEN AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: THE ROLE OF STAKEHOLDERS.”
The 6th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards symbolize a pivotal moment in advancing women throughout the agricultural value chain. By promoting recognition, education, and collaboration, the event aims to break down barriers, promote gender equality, and create a more inclusive agricultural sector.
Annually, the WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards move from region to region, empowering and celebrating the exceptional efforts of women in agriculture. This regional intervention has been held in the Volta, Ashanti, Western, Western North, Upper East, Upper West, and Eastern Regions, benefiting over 8,000 women farmers, processors, input dealers, farmers with disabilities, agripreneurs, and women across the entire agricultural value chain. The event provides them with the resources, training, mentorship, networking, and recognition needed to thrive in the agricultural sector, fostering leadership, innovation, and inclusivity.
The two-day event on-going at the Sunyani Technical University will feature over six hundred women farmers, processors, agripreneurs, farmers with disabilities, and women across the agricultural value chain. Activities will include panel discussions, training workshops, exhibitions, trade shows, speed networking, and mentorship sessions. These components empower participants to gain valuable insights, exchange best practices, and forge collaborations that can reshape the future of agriculture in Ghana.
One of the highlights will be the prestigious Gold in the Soil Awards, recognizing exceptional women farmers and women with disabilities, processors, agripreneurs, and women in the entire agricultural value chain who have made remarkable contributions to the agricultural industry. The awards span seventeen categories, including the Super Woman Farmer Award, Passion for Farm Award, Outstanding Woman in Extension Services Award, Royal Agro Award, Diamond in the Rough Award, Feed to Food Award, Change Champion Award, She Innovates Award, Climate-Smart Women Project Award, Lady of The Region Export Award, Star Woman Agripreneur Award, She-Operates Award, Development Partner Award, Princess Carla Award, the ultimate Gold in the Soil Award, the newly introduced Agri-Input Sales Woman of the Year category, and the Supportive Agri-Man Award.
As Agrihouse Foundation and Global Affairs Canada continue their journey towards agricultural transformation, the role of women farmers and women with disabilities cannot be overstated. Their resilience, expertise, and determination are integral to ensuring food security, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering economic growth.
Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa Sarpong, noted that this year’s event aims to build the capacity of women across the entire agriculrural value chain while celebrating their successes, challenges, and achievements.
Day one of the event features impactful activities, including a panel discussion on empowering women farmers and farmers with disabilities. There will be technical field demonstrations on the appropriate use and application of equipment, one-on-one mentorships, empowerment talks, and case study presentations on successful modules and practices.
The “10-to-1” breakout session offers women farmers hands-on educational opportunities, covering topics such as farm safety, financial management, nutrition, markets, exports, and investments.
On Day 2, the event continues with mentorship sessions and culminates with the “GOLD IN THE SOIL AWARDS,” where 17 nominees will be recognized and awarded in 17 different categories.
“We will highlight their stories through a documentary series and celebrate their passion, zeal, and contributions to shaping agriculture in their communities,” said Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa.
Women farmers with disabilities, referred to as “OUR SUPERWOMEN,” will also be recognized for their inspiring ability to live beyond their disabilities and succeed in farming, a challenging profession. These women sincerely inspire us to keep pushing forward, she added.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 6, 2024 | News
Nana Anane Sarah, a respected traditional leader in Seikwa, Tain District, has made remarkable strides in agriculture at the age of 62. Initially starting with 12 acres, she now manages a sprawling 75-acre farm where she cultivates maize, yam, mango, cassava, baobab trees, and raises poultry with 32 chickens. Transitioning from a teaching career, she discovered that farming offered greater profitability and satisfaction.
Her journey in farming began 20-25 years ago, during former President John Agyekum Kuffour’s tenure, when she received free baobab trees to plant on 18 acres. This initiative provided a significant boost, allowing her to sometimes export a full container of baobab trees to the market. Despite facing financial challenges, Nana Anane Sarah took a bank loan to invest in her farms, which has since turned into a thriving enterprise.
As a way of giving back to her community and fulfilling her role as a traditional leader, Nana Anane Sarah offers portions of her land to locals to cultivate. After the harvest, they share the produce, providing a sustainable means to improve the livelihoods of women in her community through agriculture. Her efforts exemplify how traditional leadership and innovative farming practices can drive community development and economic growth.
In recognition of her achievements, Nana Anane Sarah has been nominated for the Royal Agro Award at the upcoming Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards (WOFAGRIC). The event, scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, underscores the importance of empowering individuals like Nana Anane Sarah, who play a crucial role in agricultural development. Themed “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” this event will gather over 600 participants for discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and mentorship sessions aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth.
For the past six years, the Gold in the Soil Awards have honored outstanding women farmers, farmers with disabilities, processors, and women across the entire agricultural value chain who have significantly contributed to Ghana’s agricultural sector. Supported by Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana, the event emphasizes the pivotal role of women farmers and individuals with disabilities in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.
Nana Anane Sarah’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and innovation in agriculture. Her transition from teaching to farming, coupled with her efforts to uplift her community, highlights the significant impact of women in agriculture. Her nomination for the Royal Agro Award is a well-deserved recognition of her contributions to Ghana’s agricultural sector and her commitment to community development.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 6, 2024 | News
Vera Enyonam Osei Kwakye, a 43-year-old farmer based in Sunyani, is revolutionizing agriculture with her 64-acre farm, cultivating vegetables, cocoa, and managing a 50,000-capacity fish pond. Inspired by her mother and driven by a passion for farming, Vera started this venture in 2012 with her late husband. Now, she employs 24 workers, collaborates with universities and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) for training, and supplies markets in Kumasi and Accra.
Despite challenges such as soil issues and storm damage, Vera remains resilient, determined to overcome hurdles and continue empowering her community. Her innovative approach and commitment to sustainable farming practices have set a benchmark in the agricultural sector.
In recognition of her achievements, Vera Enyonam Osei Kwakye has been nominated for the Change Champion Award at Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards (WOFAGRIC). The event, scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, underscores the importance of empowering individuals like Vera, who play a crucial role in agricultural development. Themed “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” this event will gather over 600 participants for discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and mentorship sessions aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth.
For the past six years, the Gold in the Soil Awards have honored outstanding women farmers, farmers with disabilities, processors, and women across the entire agricultural value chain who have significantly contributed to Ghana’s agricultural sector. Supported by Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana, the event emphasizes the pivotal role of women farmers and individuals with disabilities in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 6, 2024 | News
In Banda Nyire, Bono Region, Madam Mensah Comfort has transformed her family’s agricultural legacy into a source of success and community empowerment. Starting with 15 acres of cashew in 2015, she now manages an impressive 82 acres of cashew and a total of 180 acres of crops, including maize, yam, and groundnut, as well as poultry and livestock. Despite challenges such as lack of labor, fertilizer, and transportation, she seeks guidance from agricultural officers to continually improve her farm.
She is not only dedicated to her own success but also to empowering other women in her community. She has organized a group of 30 women, teaching them essential farming skills and helping them start their own agricultural ventures. Through her efforts, she supports her family and uplifts her community, showcasing the positive impact of hard work and dedication in agriculture.
In recognition of her achievements, she has been nominated for the Diamond In The Rough Award at the upcoming Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards (WOFAGRIC). The event, scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, underscores the importance of empowering individuals like Madam Mensah Comfort, who play a crucial role in agricultural development. Themed “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” this event will gather over 600 participants for discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and mentorship sessions aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth.
For the past six years, the Gold in the Soil Awards have honored outstanding women farmers, farmers with disabilities, processors, and women across the entire agricultural value chain who have significantly contributed to Ghana’s agricultural sector. Supported by Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana, the event emphasizes the pivotal role of women farmers and individuals with disabilities in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.
Madam Mensah Comfort’s story is a powerful example of resilience and dedication in the face of adversity. Her journey from starting with 15 acres of cashew to managing a diverse and expansive farm, while also empowering other women, highlights the significant contributions women can make to agriculture. Her nomination for the Diamond In The Rough Award is a testament to her impact on her community and the agricultural sector in Ghana.
