USAID Calls for Collaboration, Technology, and Innovation to Drive Economic Growth and Food Security
The Director of the Economic Growth Office at USAID, Andrew Read, has underscored the vital role of collaboration, technology, and innovation in transforming agriculture to uplift communities, boost economic growth, and ensure sustainable food systems.
Speaking at the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition in Tamale, Mr. Read emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to address challenges in the agricultural sector and secure food security for future generations.
“Let us harness the power of collaboration, technology, and innovation to uplift communities, drive economic growth, and ensure food security for future generations,” he stated, stressing that sustainable agricultural practices and partnerships are essential for building resilient economies, particularly in developing regions like Ghana.
The two-day event, organized by Agrihouse Foundation, attracted over 5,000 participants from across the agricultural value chain, including farmers, agribusinesses, financial institutions, policymakers, and development partners. With the theme, “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches,” the conference created an engaging platform for stakeholders to explore opportunities in technology adoption, financing, value addition, and market access.
Mr. Read commended Agrihouse Foundation for its pivotal role in scaling up the Pre-Harvest initiative, which has become a cornerstone for agricultural growth in Ghana. The Foundation’s commitment to empowering stakeholders, fostering innovation, and addressing bottlenecks in the agricultural value chain was widely acknowledged during the event.
He also recognized the contributions of key sponsors, including Yara Ghana, Kanu Equipment, GIZ EUGAP ,FARM RADIO and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, whose support has ensured the consistent growth and impact of the Pre-Harvest Conference over the years.
Educational and Networking Opportunities
The conference provided an opportunity for participants to engage in insightful discussions, capacity-building sessions, and knowledge-sharing activities. It featured a variety of activities, including exhibitions showcasing the latest agricultural technologies, equipment, and inputs, as well as breakout sessions focused on market trends, climate-smart agriculture, and financing solutions.
Participants were introduced to practical strategies for enhancing productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, and integrating smallholder farmers into high-value markets. Experts also highlighted the importance of digitization in agriculture, exploring how digital tools can optimize farm management and improve decision-making.
Advancing Ghana’s Agricultural Agenda
In his address, Mr. Read reiterated USAID’s commitment to partnering with stakeholders to strengthen Ghana’s agricultural sector. He noted that initiatives like the Pre-Harvest Conference align with USAID’s broader goals of promoting inclusive growth and resilience by addressing systemic challenges in food production, distribution, and consumption.
A Future of Possibilities
With the global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, events like the Pre-Harvest Conference are more crucial than ever. They provide an avenue for stakeholders to explore innovative approaches to address food security challenges while driving socio-economic growth.
Agrihouse Foundation, through initiatives like this, continues to play a critical role in connecting the unconnected, empowering communities, and driving technological and social transformation in agriculture.
By fostering collaboration and innovation, Ghana’s agricultural sector can overcome challenges, tap into global opportunities, and contribute to a future of sustainable food systems and thriving rural economies.