Jaman South Queen Mother Wins Agrihouse Foundation’s Ultimate Gold in the Soil Award
Nana Yaa Esuama Yeboah I, the esteemed Queen Mother of Jaman South in the Bono Region, won the Ultimate Gold in the Soil Award at Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards (WOFAGRIC). The event, held from July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, celebrated outstanding contributions to agriculture and the community, with Nana Yaa being recognized for her exceptional achievements.
At 53 years old, Nana Yaa manages a remarkable agricultural enterprise in Chiraa, Bono Region, which includes 25 acres of maize, 6 acres of cassava, 1 acre of plantain, and 5 acres of coconut. She also oversees a thriving poultry farm with 1,500 birds and a piggery housing 80 pigs. Her journey into agriculture began after a challenging period as a trader in Accra. Seeking a new path, she returned to Chiraa and embraced farming, transforming it into a sustainable livelihood that has significantly improved her quality of life.
Nana Yaa’s vision extends beyond her current achievements. She plans to further grow and expand her farming operations, with aspirations to increase her workforce from four to accommodate the expanding needs of her farm. Her unwavering determination and clear vision continue to make her a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating how agriculture can drive economic growth and community development.
Upon receiving the award, Nana Yaa Esuama Yeboah I expressed her gratitude, saying, “This award is not just for me, but for all the hardworking women in agriculture who strive every day to improve their lives and the lives of their communities. I hope my story inspires more women to see the potential in farming and to pursue it with passion and dedication. I am deeply grateful to the Agrihouse Foundation, Global Affairs Canada, and Yara Ghana Limited for their unwavering support and recognition.”
The Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, praised Nana Yaa’s achievements and encouraged more women to venture into agriculture. She stated, “Nana Yaa Esuama Yeboah I’s success story is a testament to what is possible when women are empowered and supported in agriculture. We need more women to take up this mantle and contribute to the development of our agricultural sector. The potential is immense, and the impact is profound. Let us work together to break down barriers and create opportunities for women in agriculture.”
The event also recognized other exceptional individuals for their contributions to the agricultural sector. Takyiwaa Emma Gyan was awarded the Passion for Farm Award, and Afia Maria received the Feed to Food Award. Alijetu Bukari was honored as the Outstanding Woman in Extension Services, while Vera Enyonam Kwakye earned the She-Innovates Award. Sara Kyeremaa was celebrated with the Star Woman Agripreneur Award, and Adiata Abdulai received the Special Agriwoman Award.
Nana Anane Sarah won the Royal Agro Award, and Ayensu Patrick was acknowledged with the Supportive Agri-Man Award. Akua Benepour was recognized for her Climate Smart Women Project, and Elizabeth Sevor took home the Super Woman Farmer Award. Lucy Asuama was awarded the Lady of the Region Export Award, while Theresa Adu Boateng received the Diamond in the Rough Award. Global Affairs Canada was honored with the Development Partner Award, Janat Issifu received the Princess Carla Award, and Miss Vida Korang was celebrated with the Change Champion Award.
The 6th Annual Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards, themed “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” brought together over 800 participants for discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and mentorship sessions.
Supported by Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana Limited, the event highlighted the crucial role of women and individuals with disabilities in advancing sustainable agricultural practices and fostering economic growth in Ghana.