Rome is all set to host and witness once again, a gathering of over seven thousand (7000) world experts, impassioned changemakers and visionary leaders of all ages including youth, for the 2024 World food Forum Flagship event.
Mr Victor Muiru, Head of Local Youth Action,World Food Forum -FAO
Slated to be held from October 14 to 18, 2024, the World food Forum flagship event has over the years, remained as a premier global agrifood platform to leverage the power of intergenerational collaboration, on the power of intergenerational collaboration, as well as partnerships and action across policy, science, innovation, education, culture and investment.
Moreover, it is also committed to supporting and growing youth initiatives in the agrifood sector, with a collective mission to co-create actionable solutions to advance agrifood systems transformation, across the globe.
This light but deep-rooted theme put us all on the spotlight to further assess, how our actions are contributing to the future of food and the vision we have for the sustenance of the agrifood sector.
Throughout the week, attendees will participate in a Youth Forum where a Youth Assembly involving young people discussing specific policy topics and issues within agrifood systems will take center stage. The Youth Forum will also feature live pitching sessions, workshops and exhibitions that will highlight groundbreaking agricultural startups and youth-led initiatives, all aimed at driving innovation in the sector. It will also include a Global School Assembly inspiring the next generation of agrifood enthusiasts, advocates and practitioners.
Over fifty(50) WFF National Youth Chapter leaders will also be present best practices in building all-inclusive national youth-led agrifood platforms that would be able to address localized challenges, within the agrifood systems.
Some other key events in the Forum include the Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum, a platform for national authorities to present investment opportunities to investors, development banks, the private sector and donors. The Forum will also involve the Rome Water Dialogue, where experts will address the pressing issue of water scarcity in agriculture and feature a dedicated session on Family Farming.
Within the week is also the slated celebrations of World Food Day. This global event will underscore the commitment to ending hunger and building resilient food systems that can withstand the challenges of tomorrow.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa National Lead, World Food Forum Ghana Chapter
From Ghana, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, World Food Forum Ghana Chapter Lead and Agrihouse Foundation’s Founder, will mount the stage, together with other National Youth Chapter leads from Indonesia, Brazil, Egypt and Ireland to share an African regional perspective and highlight best practices in mobilizing youth-led action at the local level to achieve more sustainable agrifood systems
“I am excited about this impactful opportunity to join, share and engage extraordinary global leaders and youth at the WFF flagship event. It presents an opportunity to further highlight our works as the Ghana Chapter and our interventional modules at Agrihouse Foundation”.
I am equally excited about the learnings from this event and remain committed to leveraging the knowledge and networks acquired to implement local solutions that address the unique challenges our agricultural sector faces. By investing in youth-led initiatives, we can create a more resilient and sustainable future for food systems in our communities.” We are eager to build on these learnings to strengthen the World Food Forum Ghana Chapter – Alberta emphasized.
Anthony Aidoo Steering Committee Chair , World Food Forum Ghana Chapter
Adding his voice, the Steering Committee Chair for the world food forum Ghana Chapter, Anthony Aidoo said, “This event will provide us the unique opportunity to learn and grow the World Food Forum Ghana Chapter.Our International Youth Day activity made significant impact, with intensive media waves and we have a mandate to sustain the gains and impact.The WFF Ghana Chapter is committed to inspiring the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture.We believe that by involving young people in decision-making processes, we can ensure that their perspectives and innovations are reflected in the agrifood system that we develop.
The Deputy Director of the Greater Accra Agricultural Directorate, Mrs. Rogatta Antwi-Baadu, has commended Agrihouse Foundation for its dedication to enhancing the Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions since assuming leadership from the USAID Advance Project in 2018.
Speaking at the launch of the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Event, Mrs. Antwi-Baadu highlighted the foundation’s pivotal role in fostering collaboration among key agricultural stakeholders, including farmers, agribusiness professionals, input suppliers, processors, and buyers.
“Agrihouse Foundation has created an invaluable space for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and innovation, all of which are essential to addressing the challenges facing our agricultural sector,” she remarked.
Agrihouse Foundation, through the Pre-Harvest Conference, continues to be an essential partner in driving these changes. The event has become a key platform for showcasing technological advancements, modern farming practices, and new business opportunities. By focusing on “Connecting the Unconnected,” Agrihouse ensures that even the smallest farmers in the most remote areas have access to resources and opportunities to be part of this agricultural transformation.
This year’s theme, “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches,” encapsulates the transformative direction of the agricultural industry.
The future of agriculture depends on how effectively new technologies and innovations are integrated into traditional systems. From precision farming to digital platforms that directly connect farmers with markets, the sector is undergoing a significant transformation in how food is produced and distributed.
Agrihouse Foundation has been at the forefront of this movement, actively seeking ways to bridge the gap for smallholder farmers, rural agribusinesses, and underserved communities.
Through the Pre-Harvest platform, they have successfully connected these key players to vital information, tools, and resources that empower them to thrive.
Mrs. Antwi-Baadu also emphasized the Government of Ghana’s commitment to transforming the agricultural landscape through initiatives like the Phase Two of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program. This phase not only focuses on enhancing productivity but also on improving market access and adding value to agricultural produce, resonating strongly with the event’s focus on innovation and technology.
“Phase Two of PFJ embodies the innovative approaches we are celebrating today,” she said, noting how it connects smallholder farmers to value chains, expands access to technology, improves market infrastructure, and creates an enabling environment for agribusiness growth. With initiatives like these, Ghana is positioning itself not only to feed its own population but also to play a significant role in global food security.
The European Union Ghana Agriculture Programme, through its GIZ-implemented initiatives, the Market Oriented Agriculture Programme in North-West (MOAP NW) and the Resilience Against Climate Change (REACH) Project, has partnered with Agrihouse Foundation for the fourth consecutive year to host the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition.
Scheduled for October 29th and 30th, 2024, at the Alhaji Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale, under the theme “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches.” This year’s focus will be on strengthening market linkages, promoting innovation, and enhancing productivity within Ghana’s agricultural sector.
Since 2019, GIZ – EUGAP has been a steadfast supporter of Agrihouse Foundation’s Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition by working to promote sustainable agricultural practices while building resilience, enhancing connectivity between farmers and markets, and contributing to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Ghana.
This partnership has successfully established robust business linkages between farmers and agribusiness enterprises within the GIZ-EUGAP value chain, through this collaboration, GIZ-EUGAP has facilitated market linkages for over 50 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), allowing agro-processors to expand their markets and adopt climate-smart agricultural practices through practical field sessions hosted by Agrihouse.
Speaking at the conference launch of the 14 Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition, Sarah Rüffler, Commission Manager of the GIZ -EUGAP Programme ,Sustainable Employment through Agribusiness,” stated that the collaboration with Agrihouse Foundation goes beyond sponsorship. We share the core mission of enhancing market access, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and ensuring food security. This is particularly crucial today as the North of the country is facing a dry spell.
Through our partnership with Agrihouse, we have successfully facilitated market linkages for over 50 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). These businesses, owned by agro-processors, have expanded their markets beyond their current locations due to the networks created during the exhibitions. They have also been exposed to climate-smart agricultural practices through Agrihouse’s practical field sessions with has help ccreate sustainable livelihoods and enhancing climate resilience despite unpredictable weather patterns.
This initiative according to her not only offers farmers an affordable pest management solution but also empowers women, contributing to gender inclusivity and higher incomes for farmers.
she called for more collaboration and innovation to help build a sustainable, efficient, and resilient agricultural sector. “Together, we can drive change, reduce post-harvest losses, and accelerate the growth of the agricultural sector, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey to a secure and prosperous Ghana,” she concluded.
In a statement, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, expressed her profound gratitude for the enduring partnership with GIZ EUGAP for the fourth consecutive time for the annual pre-harvest agribusiness conference and exhibitions.
“We truly appreciate their continued support. This partnership has been instrumental in driving positive change within our agricultural community. Over the years, we’ve witnessed the transformation it has brought to the lives of farmers, agribusinesses, and various stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.”
Emphasizing the vital role this collaboration plays in fostering growth, sustainability, and connectivity within the agricultural sector she stated “Our shared commitment to nurturing growth and promoting sustainable agricultural practices is evident in the impact we’ve achieved together. The Pre-Harvest event has become more than just a conference; it’s a platform for change and progress. It’s where deals are made, knowledge is shared, and connections are forged.”
Ms. Akosa highlighted the Pre-Harvest event’s crucial role in creating market linkages and building the capacity of over 150,000 value chain actors and stakeholders—ranging from farmer groups and buyers to development partners, policymakers, agribusinesses, ICT professionals, aggregators, and more. She underlined how the event has contributed to removing constraints on market access for farmers and agribusinesses, thereby enhancing economic opportunities and improving livelihoods.
This partnership exemplifies a commitment to strengthening the foundation for sustainable agriculture and highlights the importance of connectivity within the value chain. As the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition approaches, all eyes are on the positive impact this collaboration will bring to Ghana’s thriving agricultural sector.The three-day event will feature conference sessions, presentations, exhibitions, and a marketplace for fostering business-to-business interactions. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in practical and immersive sessions aimed at providing deeper insights into best practices and capitalizing on the multitude of opportunities within the agricultural sector.
Nebraska State Governor, Jim Pillen has praised the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) as a pacesetter in strengthening agricultural infrastructure, facilitating agribusiness trade, knowledge sharing, capacity building and development of activities, aimed at unlocking new opportunities and push the agribusiness sectors in both Ghana and Nebraska towards a flourishing agricultural future.
Speaking at a Meet-and-Greet session with the 30-member Ghanaian delegation that recently participated in the just-ended Husker Harvest Days experience and trade and investment event, Governor Pillen placed high importance on Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) success in facilitating trade opportunities and fostering collaboration that greatly place value between the two regions.
Governor Jim Pillen equally applauded the chamber for acting as a key platform for American businesses seeking to engage with Africa, especially Ghana and for helping Ghanaian companies navigate the Nebraska agricultural market.
“I am impressed about this growing trade and business linkages between our two regions and we are opened to work with you to identify business gaps and what we can collectively do for our mutual business growth”.
In his key remarks, Governor Jim Pillen also highlighted some major areas, he expect collaboration between Ghana and Nebraska.
He spoke on how Nebraska’s bio economy and sustainable practices could greatly benefit Ghana’s agriculture, stating that, “what we do here in Nebraska can be a game-changer for Ghana’s agriculture.”
The Governor also emphasized on how Ghana can tap in into the seven generations of innovation that have shaped the state of Nebraska agricultural landscape, exemplified by Husker Harvest Days and other agricultural programs as a key to achieving long-term success.
The major highlight of the Meet-and-Greet event was the symbolic presentation of a Governor’s Coin to the Ghanaian delegation led by Hon Deputy Minister, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, signifying the growing bond between Ghana and Nebraska.
“I see the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) as a valuable gate path for companies looking to enter the U.S. agricultural market” and called for attention to Nebraska’s vast agricultural potential, the richness of opportunities and readiness to deepen its partnerships with Ghana.
Honorable Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, also extended his gratitude to Governor Jim Pillen for his support of the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) and commended him for his dedication to strengthening the chamber’s vision.
The Honorable Deputy Minister also commended Nebraska’s openness for collaboration, which he said is a major factor in advancing trade relations and unlocking mutual opportunities for agribusiness growth between the two regions.
The 30-member Ghanaian business delegation, who are all members of the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber, were in Nebraska to participate in the Husker Harvest Days and a Trade and Investment Activity.
As part of their 5-days business trip, the delegation were matched with key Nebraskan agricultural companies, including Bayer, Nebraska Star Beef, chief Industries, and Nebraska state universities, championing agriculture.
Some other delegates also were matched with Beef and Poultry producing companies, Grain producers, irrigation, commercial farm experts, machinery and equipment, financial institutions and business consultants, among others.
The overall goal is to ensure the delegation, are strategically linked to ensure measurable business outcomes, by leveraging on Nebraska’s agricultural strengths and its advanced practices in bio-economy, innovative and technological approaches.
The Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations (GNEBCham) is an International representative arm of selected Nebraska Senators, Farmers, Agribusinesses and subsidiaries voluntarily working together with their Ghanaian partners to create an environment where Agribusiness and Trade can thrive between Ghanaians and Nebraskans and beyond.
The Chamber is a non-for-profit organization, established in 2023, as a joint venture between Ghana and Nebraska public and private sector officials to strengthen, encourage, promote, foster and facilitate agribusiness trade relations between Ghana and Nebraska.
The Chamber aims to create strong linkages, foster trade relations and promote sustainable growth by connecting businesses in Ghana and Nebraska, serving as a dynamic hub for trade exchange and development opportunities.The chamber is committed to creating relationships that strengthen the Agricultural sector and we do this through Exchange programs, webinars, workshops, sector-focused Capacity building sessions, Trade fairs, matchmakings and membership community project activities, among others.
Yara Ghana Limited, a leading fertilizer company dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture in Ghana, has partnered with Agrihouse Foundation for the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition, as part of its mission to “Responsibly Feed the World and Protect the Planet.” This collaboration is aimed at supporting smallholder farmers by enhancing yields and boosting food security through innovative technological solutions.
Scheduled for October 29th and 30th, 2024, at the Alhaji Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale, under the theme “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches.” This year’s conference will focus on strengthening market linkages, promoting technological innovations, and increasing productivity within Ghana’s agricultural sector.
Yara Ghana’s steadfast partnership with Agrihouse Foundation spanning over 14 years for the Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition, underscores its dedication to empowering smallholder famers whiles also building a resilient agricultural value chain.
Speaking at the launch of the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition , Madam Theresa Randolph, Country Manager for Yara Ghana, highlighted the importance of the partnership with Agrihouse Foundation.
according to her the interventional initiative provides a critical platform for value chain actors—including farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, and financial institutions—to exchange ideas, share best practices, and develop solutions to the pressing challenges of food security and climate change in Ghana. This, she emphasized, aligns with Yara Ghana’s mission of supporting the agricultural sector by delivering cutting-edge agronomic solutions and fostering an environment where smallholder farmers can thrive.
she noted that Yara Ghana’s ongoing support for smallholder farmers reflects its broader commitment to sustainable agriculture. The company, aims to not only boost production but also promote environmentally responsible practices. By providing tailored fertilizers and expert agronomic advice, Yara is helping farmers optimize their resources, improve soil health, and achieve higher crop productivity.
“Yara Ghana’s dedication to empowering smallholder farmers has been particularly evident during recent global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine-Russia war,” Madam Randolph noted. “In 2022 and 2023, Yara Ghana donated 18,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer, valued at $20 million, to support local farmers. This initiative, which provided one free bag of fertilizer for every two purchased, specifically benefited smallholder farmers, women farmers, and those living with disabilities.”
As part of their contribution to the event, Yara Ghana will lead field demonstrations and training sessions, engaging over 2000+ farmers at the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Exhibition and Conference to be held at the Agrihouse Agri-village training and demonstration centre in Kudula in Tamale in the Northern Region. Their Expert agronomists will provide guidance, high-quality, crop-targeted fertilizers to support participants in producing nutrient-rich, high-quality food to strengthen local communities.
Expressing her appreciation for Yara Ghana ‘s consistent support, Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, highlighted Yara Ghana’s pivotal role in promoting the agricultural sector. She emphasized that Yara Ghana stands out as an exemplary corporate organization that has generously supported the growth of Ghana’s agriculture sector.
“Our partnership with Yara Ghana is a source of immense pride for us at Agrihouse Foundation. Yara Ghana has consistently demonstrated its commitment to Ghana’s agricultural sector by sponsoring our Annual Pre-Harvest event for the past 14 years. This level of dedication is truly remarkable and exemplifies what can be achieved when the private sector collaborates with organizations like ours to empower our farmers and promote sustainable agriculture,” Ms. Akosa emphasized.
“We are immensely grateful to Yara Ghana for their unwavering support and commitment to this event. Their sponsorship has not only made the annual event a success but has also played a pivotal role in driving agricultural innovation in Ghana. With their support, we are able to provide a comprehensive platform that equips our farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.”
“This partnership represents a shared vision for a sustainable agricultural future where smallholder farmers are empowered with the latest technologies and practices,” she added. “Together, we aim to foster collaboration and innovation to address the challenges of food security and climate change head-on.”
The 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition promises to be a pivotal event for stakeholders seeking to drive innovation and collaboration within Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
About The Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition
Agrihouse foundation’s, Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions event, for the past 13 years, have provided and created market linkages and built the capacity of over 150,000 value chain actors and stakeholders.
Beneficiaries and participants of the annual Preharvest event ranges from farmer groups, buyers, development partners, policy makers, agribusinesses, ICT professionals, and aggregators. Others include input dealers, equipment and machinery dealers, transporters, financial institutions, telecommunication companies, out growers, civil society, and processors, who converge in the Northern Region, to network, exhibit, share knowledge, train, engage in field demonstration activities and most importantly, negotiate and seal deals.
The intervention has served as a stimulating platform for match-making, exchange, agribusiness development, stakeholder linkages, and has brought about growth in local economies, through the creation of expanded agribusiness opportunities. It has also assisted in removing constraints on market access for farmers and agribusinesses who require access to lucrative markets and economic opportunities to improve their livelihoods and those of their families.
The annual Pre-Harvest event, culminates with conference events, presentations, exhibitions, and a marketplace for business-to-business meetings.
It continuous to serve as a dynamic platform for farmers to negotiate and seal contracts and strengthen the capacity of Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs), Aggregators, Processors, and value chain actors for them to play a key role as agricultural market actors.
ABOUT YARA GHANA
Yara Ghana, is a leading fertilizer company established in 2007, to strengthen the high quality of input supply and related services along the agricultural value chains in Ghana.
Yara Ghana’s key focus have always been on providing Ghanaian farmers with knowledge, crop nutrition solutions, and digital technologies that can help them improve their yields and quality in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. This will help farmers achieve enhanced livelihoods while contributing to local, regional, and national food production, and to ensuring Ghana’s long-term food security.
