The 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition has once again proven its pivotal role in advancing Ghana’s agricultural sector, successfully connecting farmers to new markets and opportunities. Held in Tamale, the event brought together thousands of farmers, agribusiness stakeholders, and policymakers under the theme, “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future Through Innovative and Technological Approaches.”
In her address, Agrihouse Foundation’s Executive Director, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, celebrated the event’s significant contribution to agricultural transformation. She highlighted the critical role the conference has played in linking farmers to high-value markets and fostering collaborations that have expanded business opportunities across the agricultural value chain.
“This event has consistently served as a driving force for market expansion, the adoption of best practices, and the establishment of meaningful partnerships for farmers who were previously excluded from larger agricultural networks,” Ms. Akosa shared, reflecting on the conference’s impact over the past 14 years.
The Pre-Harvest Conference continues to empower thousands of smallholder farmers across Ghana by improving access to high-value markets, providing technical training, and promoting the adoption of innovative agricultural technologies. Farmers have reported increased yields, improved income levels, and enhanced food security within their communities. Agribusinesses, too, have found new supply chain partners, expanding their market reach and building lasting partnerships that contribute to the growth of the sector.
Looking Ahead: Agrihouse Foundation’s 2025 African Agenda
Building on the immense success of the Pre-Harvest Conference, Ms. Akosa outlined Agrihouse Foundation’s ambitious 2025 African Agenda. This agenda aims to extend the foundation’s reach and impact across the continent, driving agricultural transformation on a larger scale. The key pillars of the agenda include:
- Promoting Sustainable Farming Practices and Climate-Smart Technologies: Implementing environmentally-friendly practices to help farmers adapt to climate change and boost productivity.
- Strengthening Agribusiness Entrepreneurship: Providing targeted capacity-building programs, particularly for women and youth, to develop entrepreneurial skills and foster innovation.
- Expanding the Pre-Harvest Model Across Africa: Replicating the Pre-Harvest model in other African countries to continue connecting farmers to markets, and enhancing agricultural development across the continent.
“We envision a future where agriculture becomes a sustainable and profitable venture for millions across Africa,” Ms. Akosa said. “By working together, we can unlock the full potential of the agricultural sector and contribute significantly to food security and economic growth on the continent.”
Ms. Akosa expressed profound gratitude to the sponsors of the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest, including GIZ, EUGAP, Yara Ghana, and Kanu Equipment, for their unwavering commitment to advancing Ghana’s agricultural sector. Their support has been instrumental in the event’s success and in strengthening the agricultural community in Ghana.
She also emphasized the collective responsibility of stakeholders in the agricultural value chain, calling for continued support and collaboration. “Let us remain committed to fostering innovation, building partnerships, and empowering farmers so that we can create a future where no one goes hungry,” she urged.
As Agrihouse Foundation looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to connect the unconnected, drive growth, and ensure that agriculture is a cornerstone of Africa’s economic and social development.