by Linda Boateng | May 27, 2024 | Uncategorized
Approximately Three Hundred and Sixty-Seven (367) Agricultural Students and Beginner Agribusinesses from various Agricultural Colleges, Farm Institutes and Universities across the country, have been selected to participate in the 7th edition of the annual Agricultural student’s career guidance and mentorship dialogue bootcamp, which will run for six (6) days from Sunday May 19 – Friday May 24, 2024.
The participating Agricultural Students and Beginner Agribusinesses include students from, Adidome Agric College, Asuansi Farm Institute, Damango Agric College, Ejura Agricultural College, Kwadaso Agric College, Wenchi Agricultural college, Ohawu Agric College, and Fair River Agric Institute, Veterinary College, and Animal Health Production.
Others include Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University of Ghana, University of Cape Coast, Methodist University, University of Development Studies, All Nations University, Ghana Christian University College, University of Energy & Natural Resources, Central University, University of Agricultural and Environmental Studies
In a statement, issued by Agrihouse Foundation, the organizers of the annual event, the Executive Director, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, expressed her excitement for the increase in participating schools and beginner agribusinesses in the upcoming 7th edition of the Agricultural Student Career Guidance and Mentorship Dialogue bootcamp.
Last year, we had seventeen schools participating. The increase in schools and numbers is an indication of interest, growth and most importantly, a testament of the impact, the bootcamp, has continuously had on beneficiaries over the years.
‘’The bootcamp has over the past six (6) years benefitted over 6000 participants, some of which have started their own agribusinesses and farm enterprises, whiles others have gained meaningful employments opportunity.
The focus of the bootcamp this year, is to excessively focus at how best we can accelerate our collective efforts, to further enable, establish, shape mindsets and open-up more career opportunities for the growing numbers of Agri-youth’’. She added.
For the six (6) days running, campers will be involved in innovative activities and practices, with a sole agenda, of ensuring that, they get to appreciate, embrace and understand the full cycle of the agribusiness value chain and the diverse opportunities it presents.
To this end, a detailed and integrated curriculum has been designed, to engage the minds, creativity, innovative thinking, passion and abilities of campers. We expect an outcome, where campers at the end of the camping period, will be able to identify their drive and path within the agribusiness sector, build agri-leadership skills, explore hidden talents, acquire and develop knowledge in planning, implementation and management and be equid with a better understanding of tools, programs, that are available to help them succeed as farmers, agribusiness leaders or employees of Agric related enterprises.
Just as it happens almost every year, after the Bootcamp, we anticipate companies who are looking to recruit, to equally identify great skills and talents among the campers, for employment or internship opportunities. For participating beginner agribusinesses, we anticipate them to leverage on the intensive sessions, to enhance food security, promote sustainable practices, and contribute shaping and transforming Ghana’s agrifood systems.
Some of the activities designed to achieve this goal during the six-days bootcamp include, the Agri-Ted Talk session, where we have practicing and experienced individuals and agribusinesses, sharing their career path with the campers.
We will also have the Ag-vogage, where campers embark on an experiential farm, agribusiness and corporate field tour, providing them with the opportunity to familiarize themselves with various agribusiness operations in the country, ask questions, and explore potential business opportunities.
The students and beginner agribusinesses will also have the opportunity to meet and present their ideas to with the various mentors and coaches assign to them, to brainstorm and put forward their agribusiness ideas, to be modelled into businesses.
Three key highlights of the 7th agricultural student career mentorship and dialogue bootcamp are the YES – WE CAN AGRI-INSPIRE session, which will witness women farmers, rural producers, processors and farmers with disabilities, selected across the country, to inspire by sharing their resilience stories and business journey with the campers.
There will also be the Group Students Business Presentation, where campers, who have been grouped into businesses, get to present their business ideas to the team of judges .
Over the past six (6) years, the Group Students Business Presentation, have enabled most of the campers to kick start their businesses, right after the bootcamp. This is a realization and fulfilment of our efforts, to enable and establish the agri-youth.
Another key highlight is the Students Input Dealer Business Pitch, where individual students will have the opportunity to pitch their business development approach, on how they will manage an Input Dealer Shop in the community.
Though Input Dealer Pitch component, forms part of Agrihouse Foundation’s agenda, to ensure inputs are accessible to farmers at every location; village, community or at the district or regional level.
Last year, then 22-year-old Charlotte Yawa Sodzedo, of the Adidome Farm Institute won the Pitch. Agrihouse Foundation, together with Agromonti, fully funded, by renting a store for 2 years in her name, fully filled the store with various inputs worth 35,000ghc for her as the price package.
Charllotte’s career path has fully kicked off, with her full ownership of the input shop in Adidome.
The winner of the Input Dealer Pitch for this year’s edition is likely to receive a double of what Charlotte received.
The key thing for us, is the fact, that all the participating students are from different schools, scattered across the 16 regions of Ghana. Thus, it is our hope to be able to get winners from different schools each year, to strengthen our efforts of empowering them and further supporting farmers to have easy access to input in both the short to long term.
This year’s bootcamp is being supported by ADB, Jobberman, Kofi Vinyo, Kofi Ansah (Ahodwo Farms) Lexvee Agro-processing and some of Agrihouse Foundation’s women in agribusiness beneficiaries including Mama Abigial Gyama, Janet Adade, Queen Gafaratu Enterprise, Ayden Ventures, Nanvee Natural Foods, Vinolia Wealth Foods, ZLB Enterprise, Bebefu ventures ,WEID ventures,
by Linda Boateng | Apr 30, 2024 | Uncategorized
Hon. Peter Osei Fosu, the Nkoranza North District Chief Executive, speaking on behalf of Hon. Kwasi Adu-Gyan, the Bono East Regional Minister, at the 1st Ghana Agrochemicals and Crop Protection Exhibition and Awards, organized by Agrihouse Foundation under the theme “Recognizing Efficiency and Innovation to Drive Sustainable Bumper Harvest: The Role of Agricultural Input Dealers,”have called on farmers to adopt efficient and innovative practices to ensure sustainable agricultural productivity.
on Thursday, April 18th to Friday, April 19th, 2024, at the Bonokyempem Hall in Techiman,in the Bono -East Region , Hon. Fosu underscored the significance of acknowledging the challenges faced by farmers, including limited access to quality inputs, insufficient infrastructure, and the effects of climate change. He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to address these challenges and empower farmers for success.
Recognizing the impact of initiatives like the Ghana Agrochemical And Crop Protection Exhibition and awards on agricultural productivity, emphasized the ongoing need for innovation and collaboration.
He reiterated the commitment of Bono East leadership to invest in infrastructure, provide access to modern farming techniques, and promote sustainable practices for long-term agricultural growth.
‘’I commended the private sector for its role in promoting agriculture, urging participants to share knowledge and explore innovative solutions to sector challenges’’.
He encouraged farmers to seize the opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collectively work towards sustainable agricultural development. Through efficiency, innovation, and collaboration, the Bono East Region aims to secure a prosperous future for its agricultural sector and the nation as a whole.
by Linda Boateng | Apr 24, 2024 | Uncategorized
The Vice President of the Bono East Regional House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of Basa, Nana Owusu Takyi III, has stressed the vital role of collaborative efforts among stakeholders in advancing agricultural development and sustainability in the Region.
Addressing attendees at the inaugural Ghana Agrochemicals and Crop Protection Exhibitions and Awards, held from April 18th to April 19th, 2024, under the theme “Recognizing Efficiency and Innovation to Drive Sustainable Bumper Harvest,” Nana Owusu Takyi III highlighted the importance of collective action in fostering agricultural growth and sustainability.
He underscored the necessity for increased interventions and support for agriculture, stressing its pivotal role in creating economic opportunities and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods. “Investment in agriculture is vital for the economic development and well-being of our farming communities,” remarked Nana Owusu Takyi III. “By equipping farmers with essential tools, knowledge, and support, we empower them to enhance their yields and standard of living.”
Additionally, he emphasized the importance of attracting friendly outside investment to bolster agricultural development in the region. Furthermore, Nana Owusu Takyi III highlighted the necessity of educating farmers on the proper utilization of agrochemicals and crop protection techniques, noting that such knowledge not only enhances productivity but also strengthens farmers’ purchasing power.In praising the efforts of the Agrihouse Foundation for bringing this initiative to the Bono East Region, Nana Owusu Takyi III expressed optimism that continued support and investment would lead to significant growth and improvement in the region’s agricultural sector.
by Linda Boateng | Apr 24, 2024 | News
Farmers in the Bono-East Region have praised Agrihouse Foundation for the successful organization of the inaugural Ghana Agrochemicals and Crop Protection Exhibitions and Awards.
Held in collaboration with the Bono East Regional Coordinating Council from Thursday, April 18th to Friday, April 19th, 2024, under the theme “Recognizing Efficiency and Innovation to Drive Sustainable Bumper Harvest,” the two-day event focused on educating farmers about the proper use of agrochemicals and crop protection techniques to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in the region and beyond.
Farmers expressed enthusiasm for the wealth of knowledge and resources provided. They cited the exhibitions and awards as instrumental in revolutionizing their farming techniques and enhancing their yields.
Through interactive sessions and demonstrations led by agricultural experts and input suppliers, farmers gained insights into innovative agricultural technologies and sustainable practices.
“The exhibitions and awards have been a game-changer for us. We’ve gained invaluable knowledge on how to improve our yields, manage pests and diseases, and adopt more efficient farming techniques.”
Another farmer highlighted the integration of technology into farming practices, noting, “Technology has now been fully integrated with farming, changing the way we farm. We’ve learned a lot, especially about the application of fertilizers, weedicides, pesticides, and other chemicals in our farms.”
In addition to the knowledge gained, farmers appreciated the opportunity to purchase agricultural inputs at affordable prices.
“Aside from the knowledge we have gained, we also bought a lot of things for a very cheap price,” said one farmer. “We are very grateful for this opportunity, and we look forward to the event next year.”
The two-day event held in partnership with Agromonti company limited, served as a valuable networking platform, allowing farmers to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore new products and services. Many farmers seized the opportunity to purchase agricultural inputs at discounted rates, further enhancing the economic benefits of their participation.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of the Agrihouse Foundation, expressed satisfaction with the event’s success and the positive feedback received from participants. She emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of farmers and input dealers, promising to incorporate their feedback into future events.
attendees also had the opportunity to embark on an Exhibitions booth tour, exploring various displays showcasing the latest agricultural technologies and products. Among the exhibitors present were leading companies such as showcasing cutting-edge solutions for enhancing crop protection and agricultural productivity.
The farmers also benefited from informative sessions such as the Farmer Clinic and Yara Talk, providing practical tips and advice on optimizing farming practices and maximizing yields. These sessions were accompanied by engaging visuals capturing the dynamic exchange of knowledge and expertise among participants.
Furthermore, attendees participated in the Farmer Products Application and Best Practices session, where exhibitors presented innovative products and solutions aimed at addressing the needs of farmers. Visual documentation of this session captured the enthusiasm and creativity of exhibitors as they showcased their offerings to eager farmers.
Additionally, the event featured a Town Hall session delving into new perspectives on farming and the pre-planting season pathway. This session sparked thought-provoking discussions and provided farmers with fresh insights into emerging trends and strategies in agriculture.
Exhibiting companies showcased demonstrations and presentations, offering farmers insights into the latest crop protection technologies and best practices for the safe and effective application of these products. Notable exhibitors included Jubaili Agrotec GH, Agrohao Ghana Company Limited, AGROTERRUM GHANA LTD, IWAD GHANA LTD, Sagrisalma Limited Company, WinStep Company Limited, Agri Sigma, GIZ GH/AGRIBIZ, Rainbow Agrosciences, WAAF AGRO LIMITED, Solevo Ghana Ltd, BH FERTAGRO GHANA LIMITED, CROP DOCTOR LIMITED, Yayra Glover group, AgroCrown West Africa Company Ltd, and YARA GHANA LIMITED.
The Ghana Agrochemicals and Crop Protection Exhibitions and Awards also recognized outstanding achievements in the agricultural sector through a prestigious awards ceremony. This acknowledgment of excellence has motivated farmers and industry stakeholders to continue striving for innovation and improvement in their practices recognizing farmers and agrochemical dealers who have played pivotal roles in advocating responsible agrochemical usage and sustainable farming practices in the Bono East Region.
The Awardees included Agromonti Company Limited, who took home the Most Innovative Input Dealer Company award, Yara Ghana Limited was awarded the Leading Crop Nutrition Brand in Ghana, and Tibourataa Women Group from the Northern Region won the Most Promising Input Dealer Company Award.
by Linda Boateng | Apr 23, 2024 | News
The Bono -East Regional Director for Agriculture , Mr. James Adu, has highlighted the critical role of initiatives like the Ghana Agrochemical & Crop Protection Exhibitions & Awards (GACA) in propelling agricultural growth and sustainability in the country .
Speaking at the inaugural Ghana Agrochemical & Crop Protection Exhibitions & Awards (GACA) held in Techiman by Agrihouse Foundation from Thursday, April 18th, to Friday, April 19th, 2024, under the theme”Recognizing Efficiency and Innovation to Drive Sustainable Bumper Harvest,” Mr. James Adu emphasized the significance of such endeavours in tackling the challenges confronting farmers and fostering agricultural innovation.
He expressed gratitude to Agrihouse Foundation for spearheading the initiative and extended appreciation to all sponsors, stakeholders, farmers, and exhibitors for their invaluable contributions to the agricultural sector. Underscoring the collective efforts required to ensure that farmers have the requisite tools, resources, and support to flourish and prosper.
”Over the years, through sheer determination and resilience, our farmers have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to feeding our nation and driving agricultural growth. The Bono Region boasts fertile lands, dedicated farmers, and a rich agricultural heritage that serves as the bedrock of our economy.
However, it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the challenges that our farmers face on a daily basis. From erratic weather patterns and pest infestations to limited access to quality agricultural inputs, our farmers grapple with numerous obstacles that threaten their livelihoods and the sustainability of our agricultural sector. The pre-planting season, in particular, presents its own set of challenges, as farmers strive to prepare their lands and safeguard their crops against potential threats.
It is against this backdrop that initiatives like the Ghana Agrochemical & Crop Protection Exhibitions & Awards (GACA) take on added significance. This platform not only provides our farmers with access to a wide range of innovative agrochemicals and crop protection solutions but also fosters knowledge exchange and collaboration among key stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.
By showcasing the latest advancements in agrochemicals and crop protection measures, this exhibition equips our farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to enhance productivity, minimize crop losses, and ultimately achieve sustainable bumper harvests”.
