by Linda Boateng | May 29, 2024 | Uncategorized
The 2023 National Best Farmer, Madam Charity Akotia, have urged women interested in pursuing careers in agriculture to defy prevailing gender stereotypes and societal norms.
Speaking during an Agri-inspire session to agricultural student and beginner agribusinesses at the 7th Agricultural Student Career Guidance and Mentorship Dialogue Bootcamp annually organized by Agrihouse Foundation, Madam Akotia emphasized the importance of breaking free from the confines of traditional gender roles, encouraging women to embrace their passion for agriculture despite societal expectations.
She passionately advocated for women to seize opportunities in the agricultural sector, regardless of preconceived notions about suitable professions for women.
“Women have an invaluable role to play in agriculture, and it’s time to shatter the glass ceiling that restricts our participation,” Madam Akotia declared. “We must not allow outdated stereotypes to dictate our choices. Instead, we should embrace our potential as leaders and innovators in agriculture.”
The 2023 national best farmer, recounted the challenges she encountered on her path to success. “Many people tried to discourage me from pursuing agriculture,” she revealed. “They insisted that a woman’s place was in the home, caring for her children, not toiling in the fields.”
Undeterred by the naysayers, Madam Akotia forged ahead, driven by her passion for agriculture and unwavering determination to defy gender norms. She shared how she overcame adversity, challenging stereotypes and proving that women are equally capable of excelling in agriculture.
“Despite the obstacles and doubts, I refused to be confined by societal expectations,” Madam Akotia asserted. “I pursued my dreams with courage and conviction, knowing that I had the right to choose my own path.”she concluded.
by Linda Boateng | May 29, 2024 | Uncategorized
Agrihouse Foundation, through its ‘1 Household 1 Garden’ initiative and the Monthly Beginner Agribusiness Masterclass, is gearing up to conduct a comprehensive training session on backyard farming. This initiative is designed to promote sustainable agricultural practices, equip individuals with essential farming skills, and cultivate self-sufficiency and community resilience.
starting this month, Friday 31st may 2024 and continuing every last Friday for the next six months, The training program to be held at the Agrihouse Training and Demonstration Centre in Dzorwulu under the Theme: “Empowering Job Development and Agricultural Innovation Businesses,” is designed to cover a diverse range of topics which includes establishing nurseries, nurturing seeds, mastering transplanting techniques, selecting appropriate planting mediums, implementing effective mulching practices, water management and irrigation strategies.
In a statement, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, stated that, in light of the global challenges, we face in food security and sustainability, it has become increasingly evident that empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge to produce their own food is not only beneficial but essential.
Adding that the significance of backyard farming cannot be overstated. Beyond the satisfaction of growing one’s food, it offers numerous benefits, including food security, improved nutrition, and a source of income for households.
Backyard farming also contributes to environmental sustainability. By reducing the need for extensive transportation and packaging associated with store-bought produce, individuals can significantly decrease their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet. Additionally, practicing organic and sustainable farming methods in one’s backyard can help preserve biodiversity, improve soil health, and mitigate the negative impacts of industrial agriculture on the environment.
“At Agrihouse Foundation, we believe that empowering individuals with the skills and resources to engage in agriculture and agribusiness is a step towards building more resilient communities and a more sustainable future,” she added.
Through hands-on learning experiences and expert guidance, participants will gain a holistic understanding of sustainable agricultural practices tailored for backyard farming contexts.
Participants will also receive extensive support to jumpstart their backyard farming endeavours. Each trainee will be provided with a comprehensive starter pack containing essential resources such as seedlings, compost/manure, organic neem insecticide, and seed trays, ensuring they have everything they need to embark on their farming journey with confidence.
The 1household 1garden training program promises an enriching journey for all participants, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary for success in their backyard farming endeavours. Sessions will be held every last Friday of the month for the next six months at the Agrihouse Training and Demonstration Center in Dzorwulu.
Prospective participants can secure their spots for 300 Ghana cedis by contacting Joseph on 0570246813 or Deborah on 0541555606. Additionally, interested individuals can swiftly register by accessing this registration link: https://bit.ly/IHIGMASTERCLASSMAYEDITION2024
by Linda Boateng | May 27, 2024 | Uncategorized
Osei Kofi Fosu, a Twenty-six-year-old final year BSc Agribusiness student at the University of Energy and Natural Resources, emerged as the winner of the AMG Fertilizers Input Dealer business deal pitch at the just ended 7th Agricultural Students Career Guidance and Mentorship Dialogue Bootcamp (AG-STUD), organized by Agrihouse Foundation.
Fourteen (14) final year agribusiness students who participated in the 6-day bootcamp competed for the Ultimate Prize Pitch. The input dealer business deal pitch prize was designed as part of final day activities, to allow the aspiring agripreneurs demonstrate how they were each going to develop, grow and sustain their business ideas, within a period of two years.
After a tightly contested session, the judges adjudged Kofi Osei Fosu, the overall winner of the Prize Pitch, declaring the ideas and initiatives he plans to put in place to grow and sustain his agribusiness, as most practical and smart.
In partnership with Agrihouse Foundation, the Agricultural manufacturing group will set-up a state-of-the-art input dealer business, for kofi in his community of residence.
Students from Damango Agricultural College also emerged victorious in the Beginner Group Presentation, securing a cash prize of 2,500 cedis. The University of Development Studies claimed the second position with a cash prize of 1,500 cedis, while Ohawu Agricultural College secured third place with 1,000 cedis, all sponsored by Agrihouse Foundation to serve as seed capital for their agribusiness projects.
While extending congratulations to all the participants, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa reiterated the organizations commitment to support and fuel the vision of young Ghanaians who aspire to building careers in the agricultural sector.
“By this, we are contributing to empowering the next generation of Agriprinuers, whiles contributing to the Government’s agenda of establishing Input Dealer businesses across the country, for convenience and accessibility of Farmers,” she added.
She also stated that, the bootcamp, has grown to become a leading interventional initiative, enabling Agri-youths, beginner Agribusinesses and start-ups, to develop their business ideas, into bankable and profitable Agribusiness.
She said, in the past six (6) years, the annual Bootcamp has supported about 6000 beneficiaries to develop their ideas into businesses, supported Agribusiness companies, to recruit smart and fresh graduates and contributed a drive and mindset development of young people, while exposing them to career paths and opportunities within the Agribusiness value chain.
She noted that, the partnership with the Agricultural Manufacturing group (AMG), to set-up an Input Dealer Business in any region, for the ultimate winner of the Challenge is a huge milestone and a significant boost in building strategic career path young agribusiness professionals, straight after school.
This milestone, she added will also contribute strongly to the Government’s efforts over the years, in making quality input and resources more accessible, by ensuring that, there is an Input Dealer establishment in every districts.
She praised all participants and the winners, and encouraged them to focus on pursuing their dreams with the support they have been given. While extending gratitude to ADB, Jobberman ,Agricultural Manufacturing Group, WEID Ventures, Kofi Vinyo, Kofi Ansah (Ahodwo Farms), Lexvee Agro-processing, and some of Agrihouse Foundation’s women in agribusiness beneficiaries, including Mama Abigial Ghama, Janet Adade, Queen Gafaratu Enterprise, Ayden Ventures, Nanvee Natural Foods, Vinolia Wealth Foods, ZLB Enterprise, and Bebefu Ventures for investing in the aspirations of the young agripreneurs, she said, Agrihouse Foundation is also committed to empowering more young people to realize their agri-futures, through the AG-STUD Bootcamp.
For his part, Kofi Osei Fosu, expressed his gratitude to agrihouse foundation and the agricultural manufacturing group (AMG) for the honour.
According to him the bootcamp has been nothing short of transformative for him, as a final year BSc Agribusiness student, winning the AMG fertilizer input dealer business deal pitch price has reinforced his belief in the potential of agriculture as a catalyst for economic growth and sustainable development.
‘’Throughout the bootcamp, I was inspired by the innovative ideas and dedication of my fellow participants. The experience of pitching my agribusiness project to the esteemed panel of judges was both challenging and rewarding. Their recognition of my vision and plans for sustainable growth has fuelled my determination to bring my ideas to fruition.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Agrihouse Foundation for organizing this platform and providing young agripreneurs like myself with the opportunity to showcase our talents. Their commitment to nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders is truly commendable.
Moving forward, I am excited to leverage the support and resources provided by Agrihouse Foundation and AMG Fertilizers to turn my vision into reality. I believe that with determination, hard work, and the right support system, I can make a meaningful impact in the agricultural sector and contribute to the overall development of my community and country.
This year, the 6-day bootcamp welcomed about 300 students from Agric Colleges, farm institutes and universities, across the country. Throughout the 6-days, the beneficiaries were engaged with practical learnings in diverse fields, led by mentors, trainers and coaches, drawn from different industries. They participated in a number of intensive pitching and presentation sessions, field trips, drills and other mind-engaging activities.
The opening ceremony was graced by the Patron,Hon.Dr Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings , Dr Solomon Ansah ,Director Of Directorate Of Crop Service At The Ministry Of Food And Agriculture ,Hon.Fiifi Kwettey ,Former Minister Of Food And Agriculture ,President of US Ghana Chamber Of Commerce ,Mrs Florence Torson -Har , Mr James Boateng ,2018 National Best Farmer ,who served as keynote Speaker. Other dignitaries were, the 2024 National Best Farmer, Madam Charity Akotia , The Managing Director Of Kovi Organic Foods Kofi Vinyo Among Others
The participating Agricultural Students and Beginner Agribusinesses include students from, Adidome Agric College, Asuansi Farm Institute, Damango Agric College, Ejura Agricultural College, Kwadaso Agric College, Wenchi Agricultural college, Ohawu Agric College, and Fair River Agric Institute, Veterinary College, and Animal Health Production.
Others include Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University of Ghana, University of Cape Coast, Methodist University, University of Development Studies, All Nations University, Ghana Christian University College, University of Energy & Natural Resources, Central University, University of Agricultural and Environmental Studies and catholic university.
The bootcamp also made room for daily non-campers; Agric students drawn from selected cycle institutions, including, Labone Senior High School, Accra Academy Senior High School, and O Reilly Senior High School and Ngleshi Amanfrom Senior High School.
by Linda Boateng | May 27, 2024 | Uncategorized
The Patron for The Agricultural Student Career Guidance and Mentorship Bootcamp, Hon. Dr Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings have urged agricultural student and beginner agribusinesses to take advantage of opportunities from the bootcamp to learn from mentors, industry expect and past beneficiaries and others we have excelled in the agricultural sector to guide and help them succeed.
The six-day event currently on-going at the GNAT Hall, Under the theme “Accelerating Our Efforts in Enabling and Advancing Career Opportunities for Agri-Youth: Role of Public, Private, and Development Partners,” the bootcamp has served as a beacon for students seeking to explore diverse career paths within the agricultural sector. Over the past six years, it has provided a platform for Agric student and beginner agribusinesses to connect with mentors, industry experts, and past beneficiaries, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields.
In her patron remarks, Hon. Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings emphasized that agriculture has emerged as an increasingly profitable and lucrative industry in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, evolving consumer demands, and the growing global population she urged the campers to take advantage of every opportunity the bootcamp has to offer by learning from mentors ,industry experts and individauls who have excelled in the agricultural sector and also capitalize on the networking opportunities the bootcamp offers
Additionally, Dr. Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings extended her commendations to Agrihouse Foundation for their unwavering commitment to introducing impactful intervention initiatives aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector. She lauded the foundation’s dedication to nurturing youth talent within the agricultural sphere and providing them with the requisite skills to catalyze the sector’s growth.
For her part, the Executive Director of Agrihouse foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, reiterated the organization’s commitment to empowering youth in agriculture. She highlighted the past success of the program and emphasized the foundation’s dedication to ensuring more young individuals venture into the agriculture sector. Through ongoing initiatives, the foundation aims to create a sustainable and thriving agricultural ecosystem for future generations, she also expressed her profound gratitude to Hon Zanetor Agyemang -Rawlings for consistently supporting the agricultural student career guidance and mentorship bootcamp initiative
This year’s bootcamp is being supported by ADB, Jobberman,Agricultural Manufacturing Group , Kofi Vinyo, Kofi Ansah (Ahodwo Farms),Holland Akokor, Lexvee Agro-processing and some of Agrihouse Foundation’s women in agribusiness beneficiaries including Mama Abigial Gyama, Janet Adade, Queen Gafaratu Enterprise, Ayden Ventures, Nanvee Natural Foods, Vinolia Wealth Foods, ZLB Enterprise, Bebefu ventures ,WEID ventures
by Linda Boateng | May 27, 2024 | Uncategorized
The Former Minister For Food And Agriculture , Hon Fiifi Kwettey ,have encouraged agricultural student and beginner agribusinesses to believe in themselves to be able to affect change in the country and the world at large .
Giving a Agri Pep Talk on the topic “Activating Your Purpose Through Self-Actualization as a Beginner,”at the 7th Agricultural Student Carrer Gauidance And Mentorship Dialogue Bootcamp By Agrihouse Foundation , Hon. Fiifi Kwettey urged the student and beginner agribusinesses to believe in their capacity to effect change. He emphasized the transformative power of self-belief and encouraged them to harness their potential to make a meaningful impact in the agricultural sector.
He underscored the importance of self-awareness, passion and purpose-driven action, emphasizing that every individual possesses the ability to enact positive change within their spheres of influence.
“You must be determined to change the story of Ghana. Every action we take today shapes the narrative of tomorrow. Let us harness our collective determination to cultivate a future where prosperity, innovation, and sustainability flourish across our nation.”he added
Addressing the challenges commonly faced by beginners in the agricultural industry, Hon. Fiifi Kwettey shared personal anecdotes and practical insights. He encouraged participants to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success, highlighting the importance of resilience and perseverance in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.
The AG-STUD Bootcamp, known for its commitment to providing guidance and mentorship to agricultural students and novice agri-entrepreneurs, serves as a catalyst for fostering innovation and excellence in the sector. Through engaging dialogues and interactive sessions, the event aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration needed to thrive in the dynamic field of agriculture.
As Hon. Fiifi Kwettey concluded his address, a sense of empowerment permeated the room. His call to activate one’s purpose through self-actualization resonated deeply with the students, igniting a newfound sense of determination and purpose among the bootcampers.
