Recognizing agriculture as a vital lifeline that sustains populations, economies, and National development, Reuben Binpori, the Inclusive Business Models Expert for the European Union Ghana Agricultural Programme (EUGAP) and the Market-Oriented Agricultural Program in North West Ghana (MOAP NW), passionately urged the agricultural sector to redouble its efforts in constructing a more sustainable and resilient agricultural framework.
Speaking at the 13th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition’s closing ceremony held at the Agrihouse Agri-Village Learning, Training, Innovation, and Demonstration site in Kudula, Northern Region, Mr. Reuben Binpori emphasized the urgent need for renewed purpose and commitment in cultivating a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector. This imperative is especially pressing in the face of escalating concerns regarding climate change and food security. Adopting sustainable agricultural systems is crucial.
Mr. Binpori highlighted significant advancements made by EUGAP, noting that over 70,000 farmers, agro-input dealers, and agro-processors have undergone capacity-building initiatives. These efforts have heightened the necessity for market systems, certifications, and the promotion of integrated business models to fortify the sector.
“As development partners in Ghana’s agricultural sector, our focus lies in creating robust, competitive, and sustainable platforms that interconnect value chains. Through these platforms, our aim is to achieve higher quality and quantity of farm produce reaching markets, ensuring collective food security, and providing improved access to capital for smallholder farmers and other value chain actors,” expressed Binpori.
“Sustainable agriculture is not a choice but a necessity. We must wholeheartedly embrace innovative solutions, from precision farming techniques to organic farming methods, to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” he added
He also highlighted that the European Union Ghana Agricultural Programme continues to support their partners with resources and practical knowledge, empowering them to promote and adopt intelligent climate and good agricultural practices. Additionally, numerous initiatives introduced by EUGAP through the MOAP-NW and REACH component project continue to have a significant impact on the agricultural sector.
Throughout the 3-day 13th annual pre-harvest conference and exhibition, a diverse array of experts shared insights encompassing sustainable business and farming practices, climate-sensitive agricultural production, and technological advancements. He used the opportunity to call for more collaborations among farmers, researchers, policymakers, and industry players to drive meaningful change within the agricultural industry.
Expressing deep gratitude, he commended Agrihouse Foundation for their enriching contributions in improving the agricultural sector through ,the annual pre-harvest agribusiness conference and exhibition .
He also encouraged farmers and actors in the agricultural value chain to embrace a renewed sense of purpose and commitment, marking a vital step towards establishing a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
Alhaji Alhassan Issahaku, the Chief Director of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council, speaking on behalf of the Northern Regional Minister Hon. Shani Alhassan Saibu, at the 13th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conferences and Exhibition organized by Agrihouse Foundation in Kudula, Tamale. conveyed an emphatic call to the youth to take an active role in agribusiness, underscoring the need for robust youth engagement in agriculture, citing it as a pivotal cornerstone of the economy and a primary source of livelihood for a significant proportion of the population.
Addressing participants, at the 13th annual pre-harvest agribusiness conference, held under the theme: connecting the unconnected the farmer, the input dealer and the processor, Alhaji Alhassan issahaku elucidated on the compelling reasons behind the advocacy for greater youth participation in agribusiness. Central to his address was the economic contribution that the young generation could offer.
He emphasized how the active involvement of the youth in agriculture could markedly enhance regional economic development. Youth engagement, he emphasized, could bolster employment opportunities, foster entrepreneurship, and augment income, thereby advancing the economic landscape of the region. Upholding Food Security and Technological Innovation The Chief Director of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council emphasized the vital role of the younger generation in maintaining consistent food production. He underscored that their active participation could bring innovative farming practices into effect, meeting the burgeoning demands of an ever-growing population. Further, he pointed out the potential for technological innovation, highlighting that the tech-savvy skills of the youth could revolutionize traditional farming methods, resulting in enhanced productivity and efficiency in the agricultural sector.
Stressing that the youthful demographic brings fresh outlooks and environmental awareness, integral in promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices. The sustainability of farming, he suggested, rests on the shoulders of the younger generation who are well-equipped to adopt practices that foster long-term environmental balance. He also deliberated on the significance of youth engagement in addressing rural development. By encouraging the youth to take part in agriculture, rural areas can be revitalized, promoting economic opportunities and curbing mass migration to urban centres.
Yara Ghana ,has once again demonstrated substantial progress in advocating for the efficient and effective use of fertilizers by spearheading farmer training and practical demonstrations at the 13th annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 13th annual Pre -Harvest Agri-Business Conference and Exhibitions hosted by Agrihouse Foundation at the Agrihouse Agri-Village Learning Training Innovation and Demonstration site in Kudula on Tuesday, October 26th, 2023, Ms. Theresa Randolph, the Country Director for Yara Ghana, underscored the Yara Ghana’s dedication to empowering farmers with the knowledge and tools essential for optimal fertilizer utilization.
Ms. Randolph highlighted the crucial role of adequate training and practical demonstrations in securing the best outcomes for farmers.
“Yara is committed to supporting Ghanaian farmers through vital training and practical demonstrations on the effective application of fertilizers. We firmly believe that equipping farmers with the right knowledge is pivotal in improving agricultural practices and increasing crop yields,” stated Ms. Randolph.
The training and demonstration sessions orchestrated by Yara Ghana at the 13th annual pre-harvest agribusiness conference and exhibitions aimed at providing farmers with practical skills and knowledge to optimize fertilizer usage, promoting cost-effectiveness and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.
Yara’s proactive approach in farmer education and empowerment signifies a broader commitment to fostering a more knowledgeable and robust agricultural community, promising a positive impact on Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
The event witnessed the active participation of numerous farmers, agricultural experts, and stakeholders engaging in interactive sessions, workshops, and live demonstrations aimed at illustrating best practices in fertilizer application.
She also added that ,Yara has continually supported food production and farmer profitability, evident in the results from farmers adopting Yara’s crop nutrition solutions. Apart from providing quality, crop-targeted fertilizer solutions, Yara prioritizes farmer trainings and demonstrations to ensure the effective and efficient use of fertilizers for quality food production while preserving the planet, fostering a nature-positive food future.
”Yara’s commitment to the agricultural sector growth transcends farming; it encompasses the entire value chain – connecting farmers to inputs, markets, financing, and more. The company’s role in supporting programs that link the agriculture value chain has consistently yielded impactful results. The Preharvest event presents yet another opportunity to make a significant impact”.she added.
The annual Pre -Harvest Agri-Business Conference and Exhibitions serve as a platform for industry stakeholders, farmers, and experts to exchange ideas and showcase innovative agricultural practices. Yara’s proactive engagement in this event underscores their dedication to enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in Ghana.
The Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, has urged the Government to establish more Agri-village training centers in the country, in support of local farmers nationwide.This call to action was delivered during her welcome address at the 13th Annual Pre-harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition, hosted at the Agrihouse Agri-Village Learning Innovation Training and Demonstration site in Kudula, Tamale, in the Northern Region under the theme “Connecting the Unconnected: The Farmer, The Input Dealer, and The Processor.”
The Executive Director , emphasized the pivotal role these Agri-village training centers would play in advancing farmers’ skills and knowledge, whiles connecting stakeholders within the agricultural value chain.
“The provision of at least one Agri-village training center in every region would be transformative. It will offer our farmers essential resources, training, and innovative practices, creating a hub uniting farmers, input dealers, and processors.
This initiative is a crucial step in bolstering the agricultural sector’s capabilities and creating a more interconnected and sustainable ecosystem for farming communities nationwide,” she emphasized.
She highlighted the potential and impact of dedicated agricultural hubs, unifying previously disparate elements within the agricultural community. Ms. Akosa underlined the urgent need for resources for farmers and the vital connection between Farmers ,input dealers and processors to establish a more cohesive and efficient agricultural network.
“The provision of Agri-village training centers in every region is not merely an option but a necessity,” Ms. Akosa emphasized. “It’s about creating a unified platform for farmers across the nation to benefit from shared knowledge and best practices, significantly advancing the agricultural sector.”
emphasizing the pressing need for educational support and resources, as well as stronger connections between farmers and the stakeholders in the entire agricultural value chain ,to succeed in the dynamic agricultural sector, she called on government to as a matter of urgency help provide agri-village training center in every region in the country .
The call for Agri-village training centers in every region echoes Agrihouse Foundation’s commitment to promoting innovation, knowledge sharing, and sustainable practices. Their pursuit is not merely regional but a national effort toward empowering and unifying farming communities across the country.
Speaking at the 13th annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition,hosted by Agrihouse Foundations, The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture (Crops )Hon.Yaw Frimpong Addo ,stated that the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Government is committed to fostering crucial connections ,market linkages and improvement within the agricultural value chain .
”We recognize the importance of bridging the gaps that often exist within the agricultural value chain. By connecting the farmer, the input dealer, and the processor, and every stakeholder we can create a more integrated and efficient system that benefits all stakeholders”.
According to him, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture is also taking significant steps to improve infrastructure, provide access to credit facilities, and enhance extension services. These efforts he said ,is aimed at ensuring that farmers, input dealers, and processors and every stakeholder in the agricultural value chain is equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.” We are also investing in research and development to boost crop yields, promote climate-smart agriculture, and reduce the impact of climate change on our food systems.He added .
Agrihouse Foundation’s Agri-Village Learning Training Innovation and Demonstration Site in Kudula:
Agrihouse Agri- Village Learning Training Innovation and Demonstration Site in Kudula, Tamale, is a ten-acre land acquisition by the Agrihouse Foundation in 2021, scheduled for comprehensive development over the next 3-5 years. The objective is to establish it as the Premier Agribusiness Training, Exhibitions, and Demonstration Centre.
Anticipated facilities on the site includes crop and livestock stations, a central processing center, dedicated conference and workshop halls, restroom facilities, specialized exhibition stores for agricultural companies, as well as training and recreational centers, among other essential amenities.
This strategic initiative aims to serve as a focal point for fostering innovation, education, and practical demonstrations within the agricultural domain, aimed at enhancing skills, knowledge, and sustainable practices within the farming community.
The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture (Crops), Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo, has emphasized the necessity for increased collaborative efforts between Government and the Private sector to provide comprehensive support for farmers and stakeholders across the agricultural value chain.
Addressing attendees at the 13th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions organized by the Agrihouse Foundation, at the Agrihouse Agri-village Learning Training Innovation and Demonstration site in kudula, tamale in the Northern Region, Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo highlighted the importance of collaborative measures between Government and the Private Sector in fortifying the agricultural sector.
In his keynote address, the Deputy Minister, underscored the significance of the agricultural sector in the nation’s economy, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of farmers and stakeholders in ensuring food security and economic stability.
“The theme of this year’s conference, ‘Connecting the Unconnected: The Farmer, The Input Dealer, and The Processor,’ plays an imperative need for a collaborative ecosystem,” stated Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo.
He emphasized the importance of cohesive partnerships among Government, Private sector, Farmers, Input Dealers, and Processors to drive innovation and productivity while mitigating post-harvest losses’ ‘he added.
The Deputy Minister for food and agriculture (crops), affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to bridging gaps within the agricultural value chain, emphasizing initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, providing access to credit facilities, and enhancing extension services.
Moreover, he highlighted investments in research and development to bolster crop yields and promote climate-smart agricultural practices to mitigate the impact of climate change on food systems. Encouraging active engagement from all stakeholders, Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo expressed optimism in creating a more resilient and integrated agricultural sector through collective efforts.
The Deputy Minister also extended his gratitude to Agrihouse Foundation for their significant role in fostering a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and idea exchange within the agricultural community.
In conclusion, he praised the dedication and commitment of attendees, acknowledging their vital contributions to the success of Ghana’s agricultural sector.
His closing remarks reiterated the potential for a brighter and more interconnected future for agriculture in the country, urging continued collective efforts to achieve this goal. BY:AGRIWATCH REPORTER
