by Linda Boateng | Jul 4, 2024 | News
Boahemaa Ruth, a 38-year-old farmer from Kwabenkrakrom Dormaa West, has been nominated for the prestigious Diamond in the Rough Award at Agrihouse Foundation’s the 6th Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards. Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, this event celebrates the resilience, innovation, and contributions of women in agriculture across Ghana.
Boahemaa’s journey into farming began two decades ago at the young age of 18. Starting with plantain and cocoa, she expanded her agricultural ventures to include a diverse range of crops such as rice, vegetables, maize, onion, pepper, tomatoes, mango, avocado, and palm trees. Today, she cultivates a total of 10 acres, dedicating 5 acres specifically to rice farming.
The path to successful rice cultivation is fraught with challenges. From the meticulous process of seed planting to protecting young seedlings from birds and pests, every step demands unwavering attention. The application of fertilizers must be precisely timed to ensure healthy growth, and climate change introduces unpredictable elements that can drastically affect yields. Adequate water supply is crucial, as rice is a water-intensive crop.
Despite these challenges, Boahemaa has consistently demonstrated resilience and innovation. She once managed to produce 20 bags of rice independently but now employs a more strategic approach under the guidance of an agricultural master and supervisor. This has allowed her to maintain productivity and manage her resources more effectively. However, issues like low local rice prices and the lack of modern machinery for efficient processing continue to pose significant obstacles, increasing labor costs and reducing overall efficiency.
Boahemaa’s ingenuity is evident in her unique solutions to these challenges. She barters her homemade palm soup in exchange for labor, ensuring she has the necessary help to manage her farm. This creative approach not only sustains her farming operations but also strengthens community bonds. Her dedication to farming and her ability to find innovative solutions exemplify the resilience needed to thrive in agriculture.
The WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards aim to address such challenges by providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support to over 8,000 women across the agricultural value chain. This year’s event, themed “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” will feature over 600 participants engaged in breakout panel discussions, training workshops, exhibitions, trade shows, speed networking, and mentorship sessions.
A highlight of the event will be the Gold in the Soil Awards, honoring exceptional women farmers and those with disabilities whose contributions have made a significant impact on the agricultural industry. The continued efforts of Agrihouse Foundation, in partnership with Global Affairs Canada and Yara, emphasize the critical role of women farmers and those with disabilities in ensuring food security, promoting sustainable practices, and driving economic growth.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 4, 2024 | Uncategorized
At just 28 years old, Linda Akurupoka is making significant strides in the palm kernel oil industry in Dormaa East, Wamfie, located in the Bono Region. Her entrepreneurial journey has earned her a nomination in the Super Woman Agripreneur category at the upcoming 6th WOFAGRIC-Gold in the Soils Awards, showcasing her remarkable determination and innovative spirit.
Starting with only two sacks of palm nut seeds, Linda has grown her operations to process 11 to 12 sacks daily, yielding an average of four gallons of high-quality oil. The production process involves labor-intensive steps: purchasing palm nut seeds, extracting kernels from them, drying the kernels, and pressing them to obtain the oil. Despite facing challenges such as transportation logistics for raw materials and finished products, as well as a lack of machinery to enhance production efficiency, Linda remains dedicated to meeting the demands of her customers.
Inspired by her mother, who also worked in palm kernel oil processing, Linda’s entrepreneurial journey began due to financial constraints preventing her from pursuing further education. Despite these hurdles, she continues to persevere, overcoming obstacles with a focus on expanding her business. Financial limitations have necessitated relying on daily labor instead of hiring permanent employees.
Linda Akurupoka’s story serves as a powerful testament to the impact of women in agriculture and their potential when provided with support. Her determination and passion exemplify the qualities of a true superwoman agripreneur, inspiring her community and beyond.
As part of its mission to showcase resilience, innovation, and success among women farmers, the Agrihouse Production Team is currently documenting stories across the Bono Region. These efforts highlight the talent and hard work of female farmers and those with disabilities, contributing to a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous agricultural sector.
The WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards, now in its sixth year, is an annual regional initiative that rotates through various regions of Ghana. This event provides mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support to over 8,000 women across the agricultural value chain.
Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role Of Stakeholders,” the event will feature more than 600 participants engaged in breakout panel discussions, training workshops, exhibitions, trade shows, speed networking, and mentorship sessions. A highlight of the event will be the Gold in the Soil Awards, honoring exceptional women farmers and those with disabilities whose contributions have made a significant impact on the agricultural industry.
As Agrihouse Foundation and Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana Limited , continue their efforts towards agricultural transformation, the indispensable role of women farmers and those with disabilities remains central. Their resilience, expertise, and determination play a critical role in ensuring food security, promoting sustainable practices, and driving economic growth.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 4, 2024 | Uncategorized
Madam Agatha Forkuo, a 60-year-old farmer from Dormaa Ahenkro in Ghana’s Bono Region, embodies the spirit of perseverance and dedication. Her life is a testament to the transformative power of agriculture and the resilience it demands. She has been nominated in the Passion of Farm category at the 6th Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards, to be held from Tuesday, July 9th to Wednesday, July 10th, 2024, in Sunyani, Bono Region.
Originally aspiring to be a seamstress, Agatha’s path diverged at 16 when financial constraints led her into farming alongside her father. This early introduction sparked a lifelong passion that has seen her cultivate 50 acres of land, nurturing crops like maize, cashew, palm nuts, garden eggs, tomatoes, pepper, and okra.
Additionally, she runs a thriving seed nursery where she tends to thousands of mango, orange, palm tree, and cocoa seeds, some of which she exports to neighboring Ivory Coast.
Through her hard work, Agatha has not only provided for her four children but also supported them through their educational journeys, with several achieving university degrees and nursing qualifications. Despite their academic success, she has instilled in them a deep appreciation for agriculture and its impact on livelihoods.
Beyond her personal achievements, Madam Agatha plays a pivotal role in her community. She has established a training club that mentors 12 young farmers, imparting skills in budding, grafting, and pest management. This initiative not only enhances local farming practices but also empowers the next generation of agricultural leaders.
However, Agatha faces challenges familiar to many farmers, such as inadequate water supply for irrigation and logistical difficulties in transporting her produce to market. Despite these obstacles, her determination remains unwavering, driving her to seek solutions and innovate within her farming practices.
During harvest seasons, Agatha employs over 10 laborers, contributing significantly to the local economy. She also involves her children in farm activities, instilling in them the same work ethic and love for agriculture that has defined her life’s journey.
Madam Agatha Forkuo’s story is a testament to the transformative impact of agriculture on individuals and communities. Her resilience, dedication, and commitment to empowering others through farming serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the essential role agriculture plays in shaping sustainable futures.
The WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards, now in its sixth year, is an annual regional initiative that rotates through various regions of Ghana. This event provides mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support to over 8,000 women across the agricultural value chain. Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role Of Stakeholders,” the event will feature more than 600 participants engaged in breakout panel discussions, training workshops, exhibitions, trade shows, speed networking, and mentorship sessions. A highlight of the event will be the Gold in the Soil Awards, honoring exceptional women farmers and those with disabilities whose contributions have made a significant impact on the agricultural industry.
the 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards is sponsored by Global Affairs Canada, and Yara Ghana limited .
by Linda Boateng | Jul 3, 2024 | Uncategorized
Madam Ernestina Yeboah, a 48-year-old from Apenkro in Dormaa East, has demonstrated remarkable determination and creativity in the world of farming. Her story is a testament to the power of innovation and hard work in overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Fifteen years ago, Ernestina and her two siblings pooled their family savings to purchase 6.5 acres of land, embarking on a farming journey that would transform their lives. Today, she cultivates both maize and cocoa on this land, achieving impressive harvests. In the minor season, she harvests 6-7 bags of maize, while in the major season, she produces 13-15 bags.
Ernestina’s ingenuity shines through in her ability to diversify her income streams. Recognizing the potential of cocoa pods, she began turning them into soap, a unique innovation that provides her with additional income, especially when cocoa is out of season. This creative approach has become a vital part of her business, allowing her to support her family and provide for her children’s needs.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Ernestina is a nominee for both the “Gold in the Soil Award” and the “She Innovates Award,” recognizing her contributions to agriculture and her innovative spirit.
Farming, however, is not without its challenges. according to her Pests and insects pose a constant threat to her crops.
Despite the hurdles, Ernestina remains a fervent advocate for farming, especially for young people and women. She believes that agriculture holds the key to improving lives and boosting the economy. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to see the vast opportunities that farming can offer.
Ernestina Yeboah’s journey from investing family savings into a successful farming enterprise showcases how hard work, creativity, and innovation can lead to remarkable achievements in agriculture. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination and resourcefulness, one can turn dreams into reality and make a significant impact on their community and beyond.
This have earned her nomination at Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Gold in the Soil Awards. For the ’she innovates awards category.
with support from Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana limited , the women in food and agriculture leadership training forum and gold in the soil awards have for the past 6 years d celebrated, empowered and honour outstanding women in agriculture for their resilience, innovation, and dedication to farming practices that significantly contribute to the agricultural sector.
Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, the 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards to be held Under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” will gather stakeholders, industry leaders, women farmers, and advocates to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and advocate for a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector.
As the Agrihouse Production Team travels through the Bono Region, they will capture stories of resilience, innovation, and success among women farmers. These efforts highlight the immense talent and hard work of female farmers and farmers with disabilities, paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous agricultural sector that recognizes the vital role of women in ensuring food security.
About WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards: The Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & The Gold in the Soil Awards is an annual celebration that empowers and honors women across Ghana’s agricultural value chain, including farmers, processors, marketers, and others. These awards not only recognize excellence but also promote sustainable agricultural practices and food security, ensuring a prosperous future for farming communities nationwide.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 3, 2024 | News
Madam Ernestina Yeboah, a 48-year-old from Apenkro in Dormaa East, has demonstrated remarkable determination and creativity in the world of farming. Her story is a testament to the power of innovation and hard work in overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Fifteen years ago, Ernestina and her two siblings pooled their family savings to purchase 6.5 acres of land, embarking on a farming journey that would transform their lives. Today, she cultivates both maize and cocoa on this land, achieving impressive harvests. In the minor season, she harvests 6-7 bags of maize, while in the major season, she produces 13-15 bags.
Ernestina’s ingenuity shines through in her ability to diversify her income streams. Recognizing the potential of cocoa pods, she began turning them into soap, a unique innovation that provides her with additional income, especially when cocoa is out of season. This creative approach has become a vital part of her business, allowing her to support her family and provide for her children’s needs.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Ernestina is a nominee for both the “Gold in the Soil Award” and the “She Innovates Award,” recognizing her contributions to agriculture and her innovative spirit.
Farming, however, is not without its challenges. according to her Pests and insects pose a constant threat to her crops.
Despite the hurdles, Ernestina remains a fervent advocate for farming, especially for young people and women. She believes that agriculture holds the key to improving lives and boosting the economy. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to see the vast opportunities that farming can offer.
Ernestina Yeboah’s journey from investing family savings into a successful farming enterprise showcases how hard work, creativity, and innovation can lead to remarkable achievements in agriculture. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination and resourcefulness, one can turn dreams into reality and make a significant impact on their community and beyond.
This have earned her nomination at Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Gold in the Soil Awards. For the ’she innovates awards category.
with support from Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana limited , the women in food and agriculture leadership training forum and gold in the soil awards have for the past 6 years d celebrated, empowered and honour outstanding women in agriculture for their resilience, innovation, and dedication to farming practices that significantly contribute to the agricultural sector.
Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, the 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards to be held Under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” will gather stakeholders, industry leaders, women farmers, and advocates to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and advocate for a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector.
As the Agrihouse Production Team travels through the Bono Region, they will capture stories of resilience, innovation, and success among women farmers. These efforts highlight the immense talent and hard work of female farmers and farmers with disabilities, paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous agricultural sector that recognizes the vital role of women in ensuring food security.
About WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards: The Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & The Gold in the Soil Awards is an annual celebration that empowers and honors women across Ghana’s agricultural value chain, including farmers, processors, marketers, and others. These awards not only recognize excellence but also promote sustainable agricultural practices and food security, ensuring a prosperous future for farming communities nationwide.
