by Linda Boateng | Mar 7, 2024 | News
Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was bestowed with an honorary award at the 6th Gathering of the Royals, organized by Agrihouse Foundation in partnership with the Queen Mothers Foundation of Ghana, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to advancing women’s empowerment, development, and gender equality.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, renowned for her unwavering commitment to championing the cause of women across Ghana, was celebrated for her steadfast advocacy and tireless efforts in promoting gender equality.
She was honored for her instrumental role in shaping policies and programs aimed at promoting women’s participation in various sectors, including agriculture, education, and healthcare.
As a token of appreciation, she was awarded a framed collection of her impactful speeches focusing on gender equality and empowerment, a specially crafted Kente cloth named after her, and a documentary capturing the lives of both men and women impacted and empowered by her initiatives,among which included traders, old NDC officials, market women ,students among others.
speaking during the award presentation ,Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, highlighted Nana Konadu’s dedication to advancing women’s rights, emphasizing the importance of honoring her enduring legacy.
“We were deeply moved by her lifelong commitment to advocating for women’s empowerment and gender equality,” remarked the Executive Director. “Her tireless efforts have not only inspired countless individuals but have also led to tangible progress in our society.
Nana Konadu embodies the spirit of the Gathering of the Royals, which seeks to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of our agricultural sector and the empowerment of women.”
Nana Ama Serwaa Bonsu, the President for the Queen Mothers Foundation of Ghana, reiterated Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings’ dedication to advocating for women’s development, empowerment, and gender equality.
‘’Under her leadership, the 31 December Women’s Movement empowered Ghanaian women to generate income, save money for community projects, and become active participants in decision-making processes in their villages. Additionally, Nana Konadu played a pivotal role in the adoption of the Intestate Succession Law, encouraged women’s participation in the electoral process, and made history by becoming the first woman to run for President of Ghana in 2016”.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings expressed gratitude for the honor bestowed upon her and reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to the cause of women’s empowerment.
“I am deeply humbled to receive this recognition from Agrihouse Foundation and the Queen Mothers Foundation ” she stated. “Women’s empowerment is not just a goal; it is a moral imperative and a fundamental human right. We must continue to strive for equality and justice for all. I dedicate this honor to the countless women whose voices have been silenced and whose contributions have been overlooked. It is their resilience and courage that inspire me to continue this important work.”
The 6th Gathering of the Royals, held on Thursday, February 29th, 2024, under the theme “Seeds of Change: Cultivating Gender Equality in Agriculture and Honouring Women’s Advancement,” provided an invaluable platform for over one thousand participants ,which includes Ninety-six Queen Mothers from across the sixteen Regions ,two hundred and sixty five (265) Women Farmers And Farm Associations from across the sixteen regions of Ghana and seventy women Agri-processors commanding value and volume with the agricultural sector ,participation also included dignitaries from diverse sectors such as development partners, government agencies, private institutions, academia, research associations, and civil society organizations.
Through thought-provoking discussions, networking sessions, and cultural showcases, the event fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas, sharing of best practices, and forging of partnerships aimed at driving sustainable development in the agricultural sector.ADVERTISEMENT
During the royal panel discussion led by Queen Mother Nana Akuamoah II of Tuobodom, other esteemed panelists included Queen Mother Nana Auah Tawiah I of Swfi Asempa Na Eye in the Western North Region, Queen Mother Nana Adwoa Larboh I of Yji Traditional Area in the Bono East Region, and others such as Miriama Saaka, Queen Mother of Sadoboora-Wungu Traditional Area in the North East Region, and Braimah Azara Kabachewurche Timu Burnyanso I, Queen Mother of Kabache-Kpeme Traditional Council in the Savannah Region. Also present were Nana Aba Kyere III , Queen Mother of Abirem Agona in the Central Region, Queen Mother Nana Amponsah Sekle II of Mafi Gidikpi Number 1 in the Volta Region, and Nana Darkowaaa Ampem Kyerewaa II, Paramount Queen Mother of Yamfo Traditional Area in the Ahafo Region.
these Queen Mothers shared insights into the challenges they face in their respective regions, which include issues such as limited access to land, lack of financial support, difficulties in accessing market linkages, absence of modern mechanized equipment for farming, inadequate road networks, lack of extension services, and the absence of pension schemes for farmers, among others.They collectively appealed to the government and corporate organizations to urgently extend their support to address these pressing issues.
The 6th Gathering of the Royals was held in partnership with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and the Queen Mothers Foundation of Ghana, with support from corporate sponsors including Agricultural Manufacturing Group Limited, Twellium Ghana Limited , Browngi Tractors and Implements, and Rainbow Agrosciences others includes Access Bank,Delta Paper Mill (FLORAL TISSUE) ,Rejuvenate Gaia Global Limited , ADDFRA
by Linda Boateng | Mar 7, 2024 | News
Hon. Yaw Frimpong, the Deputy Minister for Agriculture, has stressed the vital assistance Phase II of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) initiative will extend to women farmers. This support includes access to necessary inputs, contingent upon beneficiaries registering their lands with the District Directorate of Agriculture by the conclusion of March 2024, aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity.
Speaking at the 6th Annual Gathering of the Royals, organized by the Agrihouse Foundation under the theme “Seeds of Change: Cultivating Gender Equality in Agriculture and Honoring Women’s Advancement” on Thursday February 29th 2024, in Accra, he outlined plans to provide women farmers with access to inputs.
The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture urged Queen Mothers to play a pivotal role in facilitating access to land for youth, particularly women, encouraging them to leverage input credits for commercial agriculture to address unemployment. He stressed the importance of achieving self-sufficiency in food production and reducing importation by 10% to 20% by 2027.
“After reviewing the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, we have identified several gaps, such as the need for financial assistance and recognizing the potential of women in agriculture. Therefore, we are providing access to input credits under Phase 2 of the program,” He explained.
To qualify for support, beneficiaries must have registered land with the District Directorate of Agriculture by the end of March. The program will target farms cultivating various crops and poultry, connecting them to aggregators who will provide agricultural inputs on credit through extension officers. The cost of inputs will be deducted from the total revenue at the end of sales.
Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo, also announced plans to appoint off-takers to purchase produce directly from farms and transport them to warehouses, thereby easing the burden of marketing and selling for farmers. This streamlined process aims to ensure efficient distribution of agricultural products to consumers and enhance the agricultural value chain.
In addition to supporting farmers, he assured stakeholders of improved infrastructure, including road networks, to facilitate agricultural activities effectively. He emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing productivity and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
by Linda Boateng | Feb 27, 2024 | Article
In Ghana and Africa, an inequality persists that threatens the very foundation of agricultural sustainability: women farmers are being denied their rightful share of equal rights and opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of injustice and inefficiency.
Despite their invaluable contributions to the agricultural landscape, women continue to face systemic barriers that hinder their ability to thrive like their male counterparts, such as limited access to land tenure, financial services, agricultural extension services, and decision-making opportunities.
By focusing on gender equity and women’s advancement in Ghana’s agricultural sector, the emphasis is placed on addressing these disparities, harnessing women’s potential as agents of change, and promoting sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.
This involves tailored interventions such as gender-sensitive policies, targeted capacity-building programs, women-led agricultural cooperatives, and initiatives to promote women’s leadership and entrepreneurship in agriculture. Ultimately, by prioritizing gender equity and women’s advancement, Ghana can unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector, drive economic growth, alleviate poverty, and achieve broader sustainable development goals.
Agrihouse foundation have been at the forefront championing initiatives that promote women advancement in the agricultural sector ,some of this initiatives includes woman in food and agriculture training forum and the gold in the soil awards, Agri woman market place, Agri Female Initiative, other interventions includes the Gathering Of The Royals Initiative slated for Thursday ,February 29,2024 ,at the GNAT Hall in Accra under the theme ‘SEED OF CHANGE ‘CULTIVATING GENDER EQUALITY IN AGRICULTURE AND HONOURING WOMEN’S ADVANCEMENT.
The Gathering Of The Royals Interventional Initiative represents the meeting of queen mothers in agribusiness across all 16 regions of Ghana who are individually working to put women at the heart of food systems, within their respective regions, for the past 5 years ,the event has successfully served as a leading platform for these royals ,to engage in meaningful conversations, sharing their experience as farmers and insight on how they can effectively partner with corporate institutions, development organizations and government agencies to enhance the agricultural sector ‘s overall progress.
These women leaders discuss the key issues they face in their respective regions and communities ranging from access to resources, market challenges and the need for sustainable and smart Agricultural practices.
They collectively brainstorm and explore innovative solutions to address these challenges, with the ultimate goal of fostering a thriving and an inclusive agricultural sector.
The Gathering of the Royals, has gathered has over 2, 973 traditional leaders, women farmers, assemblymen, district chief executives, community leaders and stakeholders influencing and transforming communities, in diverse ways
IMPACT OF THE GATHERING OF THE ROYAL OVER THE YEARS
1. The successful facilitation of extension support services and officers to communities that were initially not receiving support, with support by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
2. The introduction of the Royals in Agri-booster Module in 2021, where farming communities and farmers receive various capacity building and demonstrative services to enhance yield. By this, over 10,000 farmers have received free soil testing, prior to planting, and basic input.
3. The establishment of community watch policing, across various communities to ensure sustainability of agri-peace in the farming communities, with support from the Ghana Police service.
4. Supported to deepen and establish new relationship between traditional leaders and development agencies, to advance and scale-up farming activities within communities.
5. Created a much-needed community support avenue, for input dealers, machinery and equipment companies, financial institutions and other agencies, to introduce product and services to farming communities, thereby, increasing access to input, and enhancing speed and efficiency.
6.Successfully supported women farmers and policy makers to strengthen relationships, and work towards a common goal of developing good networking farm roads, find solutions to animal invasion of farmlands, transportation and other key resources.
The Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa speaking at a recent press briefing for the 6th gathering of the royals, outlined the event’s objective to delve into issues surrounding gender and its impact on advancing and nurturing sustainable women farmers across various regions of Ghana, while emphasizing the pivotal roles of queen-mothers in spearheading agricultural growth, development, and change within their respective regions.
Ms. Akosa passionately emphasized the significance of this year’s Gathering of The Royals as a strategic platform for influencing policy directions, forging stronger partnerships among traditional leaders, and driving comprehensive growth in the agricultural sector.
underlining the pressing need to address gender disparities within the agricultural landscape. She stressed the theme’s emphasis on cultivating gender equality in agriculture, advocating for concerted efforts to empower women in agribusiness and afford them equal opportunities for growth and advancement.ADVERTISEMENT
women often encounter systemic barriers, hindering their full participation and contribution to the sector’s development. Through this year’s 6th gathering of the royal’s event will also seek to celebrate and honour the achievements of women in agriculture, alongside championing meaningful policy interventions and support systems that promote gender equality, emphasizing the importance of fostering an inclusive agricultural ecosystem that recognizes and values the contributions of women farmers, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
The Vice President for the Queen Mothers Foundation and Queen Mother for Kwamankese Traditional Area, Nana Kobiiwaa Ackwah, speaking on behalf of the President of the Queen Mothers Foundation, Nana Serwaa Bonsu, at the press briefing, stated the crucial role of Queen Mothers in driving agricultural development within their communities.
“Queen mothers are the backbone of their communities, and we play a crucial role in driving agricultural development. We know the challenges that exist in our regions, and we have firsthand knowledge of what it takes to make a difference,” she stressed. She emphasized the importance of leveraging this knowledge and expertise through collaboration with Agrihouse Foundation to find innovative solutions that can positively impact the agricultural sector across Ghana.
Nana Kobiiwaa Ackwah shared that the Queen Mothers Foundation of Ghana has been actively involved in empowering women in agriculture, providing training and resources to enhance their skills and productivity. She urged the need for continued support and partnerships to ensure the success and sustainability of these initiatives, expressing gratitude to Agrihouse Foundation for consistently creating platforms to address agricultural issues through various initiatives, reiterating their commitment to creating an inclusive and collaborative environment where the voices of queen mothers are heard, respected, and valued.
TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT OF GATHERING OF THE ROYALS- NANA ODEITOWN II
Speaking on the impact that the Gathering of the Royals has had on her region, Nana Odeitown II, Queen Mother for Tokuroano Traditional Area in the Oti region, emphasized the transformative impact of the Gathering of the Royals initiative in addressing this critical issue. With support from benevolent organizations and collaborative efforts facilitated by Agrihouse Foundation, the community was able to acquire gari processing machines, enabling local farmers to process their cassava yield efficiently.
She noted that the initiative empowered her and other community leaders with knowledge and resources, enabling them to train the youth in various agricultural practices such as groundnut processing, shea butter production, and effective gari processing techniques. “This initiative not only provided us with essential machinery but also equipped us with valuable knowledge that we could pass on to the younger generation,” she remarked. “Now, our youth are actively engaged in agricultural activities, contributing to the economic growth and sustainability of our community.”
EMBRACING AGRICULTURE AS A VIABLE CAREER-
Adding her voice, Mama Megbenya II, Queen Mother of the Hlefi Traditional Area in the Ho-West Municipality, emphasized the transformative potential of agriculture as a viable career path for women and the youth.
‘’the potential of agriculture as a sustainable livelihood option for women and youth is underestimated. I stand here today to challenge the nation and encourage our women and the youth to embrace agriculture as a viable career choice,” Mama Megbenya II stated. Drawing from her own experiences and observations within her community, Mama Megbenya II highlighted the multifaceted benefits of agriculture beyond mere sustenance. She stressed the importance of viewing agriculture not only as a means of food production but also as a source of economic empowerment and community development.
According to her by engaging in agriculture, our women and the youth have the opportunity to not only provide for their families but also contribute to the economic growth of our community, adding that agriculture fosters a sense of pride and connection to the land, instilling valuable life skills and promoting environmental stewardship.”
Mama Megbenya II, however advocated for the integration of backyard gardens into daily agricultural practices. She emphasized the potential of backyard gardens serving as an additional source of income and nutrition for families, particularly in rural areas where access to fresh produce may be limited.
PROMOTE POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS AGRICULTURE- NANA SERWAA BRAKATUO II
Nana Serwaa Brakatuo II, Abetifi Ahakomanhemaa, also speaking at the press briefing for the 6th Gathering of the Royals, shed light on a critical issue affecting children’s perceptions of agriculture. Recognizing the profound impact of childhood experiences on future career choices, Nana Serwaa Brakatuo II addressed the detrimental practice of using weeding as a form of punishment in schools.
“It is disheartening to see that weeding, a fundamental agricultural activity, is being used as a form of punishment in our schools. By associating weeding with punishment, we inadvertently instil negative perceptions of agriculture in the minds of our children,” Nana Serwaa Brakatuo II expressed with concern.
Highlighting the importance of nurturing positive attitudes towards agriculture from a young age, Nana Serwaa Brakatuo II emphasized the need to reframe children’s perceptions of agricultural activities. She advocated for alternative disciplinary measures in schools that promote a positive understanding of agriculture and its significance in community development.
“We must recognize that agriculture is not a punishment but a noble and essential occupation that sustains life and fosters prosperity in our communities. As leaders and educators, it is our responsibility to cultivate a positive perception of agriculture among our youth,” she asserted passionately.
Nana Serwaa Brakatuo II concluded her address by calling upon school authorities, parents, and guardians to reconsider the use of weeding as a form of punishment and to prioritize the promotion of positive attitudes towards agriculture among children. She affirmed her commitment to advocating for agricultural education and empowering the youth to embrace agriculture as a rewarding and dignified profession.
The Gathering of the Royals initiative has, for the past five (5) years, established itself as a cornerstone interventional initiative, providing a vital platform for Queen Mothers in farming and other Agribusiness value chains, to engage in meaningful conversations. Together, they tackle pressing issues peculiar to their communities and Regions, such as access to resources, market challenges, and the imperative for sustainable practices.
Now in its sixth year, as part of the activities for this year, we get to celebrate women who have stood and fought positively, for gender advancement for many years while advocating for meaningful policy interventions and support systems that promote gender equality.
The 6th Gathering of the Royals slated for Thursday 29th February 2024 promises to be a day filled with insightful discussions and valuable networking opportunities influencing policy directions, fostering stronger partnerships among traditional leaders, and driving holistic growth in the agricultural sector.
It is a leap year, and an election year, and we are positive you share in our desire for a country of co-operation and further development of sustainable farming, with peace and security, as a bedrock.
We look forward to your presence, at the 6th gathering of the royals, happening on Thursday 29th February 2024 at the GNAT hall in Accra , as we delve deeper into dialogues and action-oriented discussions, in building sustainable farmers, food systems and honoring the advancement of women in agribusinesses.
by Linda Boateng | Feb 15, 2024 | News
Agrihouse Foundation, in collaboration with the Queen Mothers Foundation, Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, will on Thursday, February 29, 2024 host the 6th annual Gathering of The Royals .
The event to be held at the GNAT Hall in Accra, under the theme “Seeds of Change: Cultivating Gender Equality in Agriculture and Honoring Women’s Advancement,”, promises a day packed with enlightening discussions and valuable networking opportunities.
Speaking at the press briefing for the 6th Gathering of the Royals, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, outlined the event’s objective to delve into issues surrounding gender and its impact on advancing and nurturing sustainable women farmers across various regions of Ghana. delving into the pivotal roles of queen-mothers in spearheading agricultural growth, development, and change within their respective regions.
Ms. Akosa passionately emphasized the significance of this year’s Gathering of The Royals as a strategic platform for influencing policy directions, forging stronger partnerships among traditional leaders, and driving comprehensive growth in the agricultural sector.
Speaking ardently about the theme, “Seeds of Change: Cultivating Gender Equality in Agriculture and Honoring Women’s Advancement,” Ms.Akosa ,underlined the pressing need to address gender disparities within the agricultural landscape.
The Executive Director stressed the theme’s emphasis on cultivating gender equality in agriculture, advocating for concerted efforts to empower women in agribusiness and afford them equal opportunities for growth and advancement. Ms. Akosa highlighted the indispensable role of women in agriculture, while lamenting the systemic barriers they often encounter, hindering their full participation and contribution to the sector’s development.
Through this year’s event, Ms. Akosa reiterated the intention to celebrate and honor the achievements of women in agriculture, alongside championing meaningful policy interventions and support systems that promote gender equality. She emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive agricultural ecosystem that recognizes and values the contributions of women farmers, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
The Queen Mother for Kwamankese Traditional Area , Nana Kobiiwaa Ackwah, speaking on behalf of the President of the Queen Mothers Foundation, Nana Serwaa Bonsu, at the press briefing, stated the crucial role of Queen Mothers in driving agricultural development within their communities.
“Queen mothers are the backbone of their communities,” Ackwah stated, highlighting their firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities in their regions. She stressed the importance of leveraging this knowledge and expertise through collaboration with Agrihouse Foundation to find innovative solutions that can positively impact the agricultural sector across Ghana.
Nana Kobiiwaa Ackwah, shared that the Queen Mothers Foundation of Ghana has been actively involved in empowering women in agriculture, providing training and resources to enhance their skills and productivity. She urged the need for continued support and partnerships to ensure the success and sustainability of these initiatives.
She expressed gratitude to Agrihouse Foundation for consistently creating platforms to address agricultural issues through various initiatives, reiterating their commitment to creating an inclusive and collaborative environment where the voices of queen mothers are heard, respected, and valued
