A moment of celebration and recognition unfolded at the 5th Women in Food and Agriculture Training Forum and gold in the soil awards as Margaret Agyei, a 38-year-old female farmer from Akim Achiase, stood proudly as the recipient of the coveted Gold in the Soil Award. The event, held at the Bedtime Hotel in Koforidua, not only showcased the remarkable achievements of women in the farming sector but also promoted gender equality and sustainable farming practices.
Margaret Agyei’s farming prowess is nothing short of extraordinary, as she adeptly manages a diverse range of crops and livestock on her impressive 94-acre farm. From a Palm Plantation, plantain, cassava, maize, cocoa, poultry, goat, grass cutter, rabbit, to cows, her integrated farming approach reflects a harmonious blend of agricultural activities contributing to a sustainable and productive farming landscape.
The 5th Women in Food and Agriculture Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards provided a significant platform to celebrate the accomplishments of women farmers and agripreneurs. Amongst the pool of talented participants, her dedication, hard work, and innovative farming methods stood out, earning her the ultimate recognition through the Gold in the Soil Award.
Margaret’s triumph in the face of numerous challenges exemplifies the resilience and determination of women in farming. Her outstanding achievements have not only inspired other women in the field but also garnered admiration and support from various stakeholders, including government officials and agricultural institutions.
Expressing her joy and gratitude, Margaret Agyei stated that , “I am truly honored and humbled to receive the Gold in the Soil Award. Farming has been my passion, and I am dedicated to making a positive impact on our community and the farming sector as a whole. This award is not just for me; it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of women farmers like me who strive to make a difference.”
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa Sarpong, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, commended Margret’s contributions, stating, “her remarkable success in farming exemplifies the spirit of the Gold in the Soil Award. It recognizes and celebrates the outstanding efforts of women farmers who play a critical role in driving our nation’s agricultural growth and food security.”
Margaret Agyei’s victory shines a spotlight on the significant contributions of women farmers in shaping Ghana’s farming landscape. The Gold in the Soil Award stands as a beacon of hope, encouraging and empowering more women to pursue their passions in farming and make a lasting impact on their communities and the nation as a whole.
The fifth WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards was proudly brought to you by Agrihouse Foundation in partnership with Global Affairs Canada, YARA, RDF Ghana LBG, and the World Food Program with collaborating institutions including the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA),Eastern Regional Agricultural Directorate, Women in Agriculture Development (WIAD), the National Farmers and Fishermen Award Winners Association (NFFAWAG),and the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council .
Other sponsors for the 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards included Interplast Limited, Ghana Exim Bank, Browngi Tractors and Implements, RST Machinery Limited, Rainbow Agrosciences, HJA Africa, Moudlyne Gh. Ltd, The Hunger Project, and C-Mativents
OTHER WINNERS OF THE PRESTIGIOUS GOLD IN THE SOIL AWARDS INCLUDES:
*Passion for Farm Award: Nana Felicia Akyeamah
*Change Champion Award: Mrs. Dzidzinyo K Fianu
*Outstanding Woman in Extension Services: Delali Esi Agyeman
*Feed to Food Award: Lydia Gyebi Asare
*She-innovates Award: Abigail Ghama
*She-operates Award: Hajara Mohammed
*Princess Carla: Ernestina Osei-Tutu
*Diamond in the Rough Award: Adwoa Agyeiwaa
*Climate Smart Award: Doris Opokua Hagan
*Star Woman Agripreneur Award: Faustina Mamle Nartey
*Royal Agro Award: Nana Obaapanin Konadu Kontie 11
*Gold in the Soil Award: Margret Agyei
*Development Partner Award: Global Affairs Canada and World Food Program
