by Linda Boateng | Nov 12, 2024 | Uncategorized
The Country Manager for Yara Ghana Limited, Madam Theresa Randolph, has reaffirmed Yara’s unwavering commitment to bolstering food security and advancing the livelihoods of Ghanaian farmers.
Speaking during a panel discussion at the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Exhibition and Conference organized by Agrihouse foundation, on the theme, “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future Through Innovative and Technological Approaches,” Madam Randolph outlined Yara’s strategic approach to sustainable agriculture.
She emphasized the company’s dedication to empowering farmers through innovative crop nutrition solutions, climate-smart practices, and digital tools that enhance productivity while safeguarding the environment.
Reflecting on Yara’s focus on “increasing food security and enhancing farmer livelihoods,” she noted the significant strides Yara has made in empowering farmers through comprehensive crop nutrition solutions, which have directly impacted productivity and profitability for those who adopt Yara’s methods.
“Yara continues to drive and support food production and farmer profitability, and the results are clear among those adopting our crop nutrition solutions,” she remarked, highlighting Yara’s influence in elevating agricultural standards and securing food supplies across the country.
Empowering Farmers Through Technology and Training
In line with Yara’s mission to responsibly feed the world and protect the planet, Madam Randolph outlined Yara’s substantial investment in technology and sustainable farming practices.
“Through our mission to responsibly feed the world and protect the planet, and our ambition to grow a nature-positive food future, we are heavily invested in applying technology through climate neutrality and regenerative farming practices. These efforts are complemented by prosperity measures designed to improve farmer income and promote sustainable agronomic practices,” she added, emphasizing Yara’s holistic vision for agriculture that incorporates both environmental and economic goals.
Beyond providing quality, crop-targeted fertilizer solutions, Yara leads the way with comprehensive farmer training and demonstration programs to ensure the effective and efficient use of fertilizers. This not only delivers quality food production but also protects the planet, strengthening food systems resilience and sustainability for all.” Madam Randolph emphasized.
According to her, Yara Ghana invests significantly in innovations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in its premium fertilizers, a critical component of its broader effort to decarbonize agriculture and minimize carbon footprints. “Our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions is evident in our continuous efforts to achieve global standards on decarbonization and the SDG Goal 13 to limit & adapt to climate change,” she shared. By investing in fertilizers that lower greenhouse gas emissions, Yara is setting a precedent for sustainable practices in the agricultural sector and contributing to global climate goals.
Yara’s Role in Farmer Education and Training
In addition to supplying crop-specific fertilizer solutions, Yara Ghana has taken a proactive role in farmer education and training. These initiatives equip farmers with essential skills to maximize the effectiveness of fertilizers, yielding higher quality production while promoting environmental stewardship.
In these training programs, farmers learn best practices for fertilizer application, crop rotation, and efficient land use, enhancing their ability to increase yields sustainably. By fostering a deeper understanding of soil health, crop nutrition, and resource management, Yara’s training initiatives are setting the stage for long-term growth and resilience in Ghana’s agricultural sector. These educational efforts are particularly impactful for smallholder farmers who often face barriers to accessing up-to-date information on sustainable agriculture.
Moreover, Yara Ghana actively collaborates with local agricultural organizations and extension services to expand the reach of its training programs. These partnerships enable Yara to disseminate information more effectively and reach remote farming communities that might otherwise lack access to essential agricultural knowledge. By investing in community-based education, Yara is fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability among Ghanaian farmers.
Innovation in Digital Connectivity with YaraConnect
Recognizing the value of connectivity in transforming agriculture, Yara Ghana launched the YaraConnect app at the end of 2022. Designed as a retailer-facing platform, YaraConnect strengthens loyalty within the smallholder farmer ecosystem and streamlines access to Yara’s resources. This mobile application offers valuable farming advice, enabling retailers to guide farmers on informed input purchase decisions for optimal crop yields.
“The YaraConnect app is not just a loyalty program; it’s a vital knowledge-sharing tool. Retailers can provide farmers with sound advice based on comprehensive insights, driving more effective and tailored crop nutrition solutions,” explained Madam Randolph. By equipping retailers with reliable information, YaraConnect ensures that farmers receive accurate guidance, which, in turn, leads to better crop quality and productivity.
The app also supports smallholder farmers by providing insights on market trends, enabling them to make informed decisions that can lead to higher profitability. Through features that include crop advisory, input tracking, and tailored recommendations, YaraConnect empowers farmers with the knowledge they need to adapt to changing market demands and environmental conditions. Yara’s investment in digital tools underscores its commitment to last-mile delivery of agricultural solutions, ensuring that even farmers in remote areas have access to essential support for their agricultural needs.
Building a Sustainable Future Through Public-Private Partnerships
Madam Randolph stated that the journey to transform agriculture is one that requires the collaborative efforts of both public and private sectors. By leveraging the strengths and resources of both sides, Yara is working to ensure that Ghana’s agricultural sector remains resilient and capable of meeting the food demands of a growing population.
“This event, with the theme of connecting the unconnected, demonstrates the critical role of innovation and technology in driving agricultural growth. When the agriculture sector is transformed through innovation and technology, it can accelerate economic development and prosperity of citizens,” she remarked. Randolph stressed that public-private partnerships are essential in enabling Ghana to overcome agricultural challenges and reach new milestones in food security.
Yara’s Vision for Ghana’s Agricultural Sector
She added that, Yara Ghana is dedicated to building a future where Ghanaian farmers are prosperous, food security is assured, and agriculture is both sustainable and climate resilient. “Yara’s commitment to an inclusive, technologically advanced agricultural future stands as a pillar of support for Ghanaian farmers, driving sustainability, profitability, and a more resilient food system,” she noted.
Through its innovative solutions, digital outreach, and comprehensive training programs, Yara Ghana remains at the forefront of agricultural transformation in Ghana. Its efforts in promoting sustainable practices, reducing environmental impact, and fostering economic resilience underscore a powerful vision for the future of agriculture—a vision where Ghanaian farmers not only survive but thrive in a rapidly changing world. Yara’s initiatives reflect a profound understanding of the challenges facing modern agriculture and a steadfast resolve to create lasting, positive change for farmers, communities, and the planet.
by Linda Boateng | Nov 8, 2024 | News
The Vice President of the Ghana–Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham), Mr. Cecil Sunkwa-Mills, has highlighted an ambitious long term vision of GNEBCHAM, to ensure they are able to positively make impact in expanding trade opportunities, educational exchanges, imports, exports and expand markets and Agribusiness opportunities for both Nebraskan and Ghanaian businesses.
Mr. Sunkwa-Mills made these remarks at a gathering of Nebraska businesses and Government officials in Nebraska, during the Husker Harvest Days.
He said, CNEBCHAM, is putting in all efforts to strengthen and create the needed bridge to promote agribusiness and trade in both regions.
He emphasized GNEBCHAM’s desire to continue to leverage on the strength of strategic collaborations locally and internationally to drive new projects and enhance existing initiatives well into the future.
‘’A major component of our plan as a chamber was our agenda to establish a well-organized operational secretariat to manage and coordinate the Chamber’s activities efficiently, this we have successfully achieved’’.
Additionally, GNEBCham seeks to grow its membership to approximately 500 agribusinesses. By expanding our member base, we hope to build a stronger and more connected network, to enhance our influence and provide more resources and opportunities As we approach 2025, plans are equally underway, to drive significant business-to-business (B2B) transactions, targeting deals valued at approximately 200 million U.S. dollars.
These transactions will enable Ghanaian agribusinesses to expand their reach and establish valuable partnerships with U.S.-based companies.
Another critical objective is to increase exports of Ghanaian non-traditional processed agricultural products, with a target of achieving export values between 40-50 million U.S. dollars. This effort will create more demand for Ghanaian products abroad and strengthen trade relations between Ghana and Nebraska.
Currently, the Ghana–Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) is working towards closing educational programs and partnerships with higher education institutions and colleges to support professional exchanges involving professors, students and work programs.
Mr. Sunkwa-Mills also informed the business gathering that, the Chamber together with other private businesses, intend to develop demonstration farms across Ghana’s southern, mid-belt, and northern regions to showcase partnerships and host annual agribusiness expos in both Nebraska and Ghana.
This he stated, will enable Ghana and Nebraska to leverage on their strengths, expand market opportunities, and support the livelihoods of families dependent on agriculture by promoting shared goals.
Through this partnership, Ghana and Nebraska can build on their unique strengths to open up new market opportunities and support agricultural livelihoods in both regions.
The Ghana–Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) recently organized a successful 30-member business delegation to participate in the Husker Harvest Days experience and other trade and investment activities in Nebraska, USA.
The delegation engaged with the U.S. agribusiness market, exploring opportunities for long-term collaboration in agribusiness, export and import, farming, educational exchanges, and sharing best practices for doing business with Nebraska and Ghana.
The goal of this business trip was to strengthen existing relationships, establish new business deals and foster strong, sustainable partnerships.
The Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) is dedicated to being a catalyst or hub, working to connect businesses, facilitate trade, and drive innovation in agribusiness between Ghana and Nebraska.
by Linda Boateng | Nov 8, 2024 | News
On this great occasion of the 40th National Farmers Day Celebrations, Grand durbar, Awards and Exhibitions, we at the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) extend our warmest congratulations and heartfelt appreciation to Ghana’s farmers, fishers, vale chain actors and agribusiness professionals.
Your tireless dedication and resilience are the backbone of Ghana’s agriculture, playing a pivotal role in ensuring food security, economic growth and sustainable livelihoods.
GNEBCham have, within the past three years, put into action, a collective mission, to create opportunities that strengthens the agricultural sectors of both Ghana and Nebraska respectively.
FORMER NEBRASKA STATE SENATOR KEN SCHILZ /CO- FOUNDER, GHANA-NEBRASKA AGRIBUSINESS GROWTH AND TRADE RELATIONS CHAMBER (GNEBCHAM)
We have been committed to facilitating agribusiness trade activities, supporting knowledge sharing, educational exchanges, capacity building and business expansion between our two Regions.
With the support of valued stakeholders and partners, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the U.S. Embassy, Nebraska Strategies, Agrihouse Foundation, Nebraska Department of Economic Development , among others, we have been able to facilitate and advance business opportunities, with some at the early stages and others already flourishing.
The Chamber has by far, experienced an agribusiness sector that has a key potential to thrive further, given the favorable economic conditions, transparent regulations and active government-private sector collaborations.
As a farmer myself, this Farmers’ Day celebrations means so much and reminds me, that together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive agrifood system.
After earning my Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, I returned to our family farm in western Nebraska, where my father, brother and I worked together to farm and raise cattle.
For about 15 years, I had the privilege of managing our family’s 20,000-head feed yard, and in 2006, I received the Progressive Partner Award from Certified Angus Beef.
I am indeed excited that, now more than ever, Farmers’ efforts and progress are been tracked, recognized and celebrated all over the world.
This special day not only celebrates the achievements of Ghana’s agricultural community but also reminds us that, further, leveraging on the power of innovation and collaboration with organizations such as GNEBCHAM, would contribute immensely in achieving food sustainability and economic prosperity.
GNEBCHAM pledges our continued support to grow sustainable farmers, advance our agribusiness infrastructure and embark on Agri-trade activities that drive success in both Ghana and Nebraska.
Together, we look forward to a prosperous future where Ghanaian and Nebraskan farmers and agribusinesses thrive locally and globally.
Congratulations to you all and we welcome you to join the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber
Happy Farmers Day to all!
The Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber was co-founded by Former Nebraska Senator, Ken Schilz and Ghana’s Agribusiness advocate, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, when both realized their common dedication to their respective country’s agriculture, and their genuine passion to ensure growth and partnerships thrives between their two Regions.
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Contact: +233244623012
by Linda Boateng | Nov 8, 2024 | News
Truly, where there is Food, there is Peace
Where, there is Peace; there is Unity
Where there is Unity, there is development;
Where there is development, there is Sustainability
Where there is sustainability, there are partnerships
Where there are partnerships, we experience speed and steady progress.
And this forms one of the key reasons, why I am passionate and dedicated to this year’s 40th Farmers Day Exhibitions and celebrations.
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture has demonstrated and displayed a high impact level of what a Public-Private Partnership and youth empowerment could look like, by working with, and fully committing Agrihouse Foundation to lead, take charge, plan, champion and organize the 5-days Farmers’ Day Agricultural Fair- Agrifest, that precedes the Farmers’ Day Grand durbar and Awards.
On behalf of the Agrihouse Foundation Team, I wish to thank the Honourable Minister of Food and Agriculture, the Honourable Deputy Ministers, Chief Director, National Coordinator and all officials at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, for entrusting this major component of the Farmers Day into our hands.
We appreciate the task of managing the entire project cycle, for the most recognized and decorated Farmers’ event, on our national calendar.
This is a ground-breaking milestone for our young organization and Team at Agrihouse Foundation.
We are thus very committed and determined to demonstrate through this, that, when the youth are given the needed opportunities, we are capable of proactively taking charge, execute and deliver a sterling performance.
I remain confident, that beyond all the rough patches and challenges, our industry players will appreciate the significant impact, our youthful and woman-led organization are making in the entire organization the 40th Farmers’ Day Exhibitions from the ground-up.
I equally remain confident that, this milestone, will further boost, inspire and drive more of our youth into agribusiness and most importantly, embrace the diverse career opportunities and roles within the value chain that we can all play, in advancing our food systems.
I equally and finally remain hopeful, that we are able to demonstrate to our leaders that, tapping into the rich and vibrant resource of the youth of our nation offers reliable possibility of upscaling performance in our subsector.
The Agrihouse Foundation Team, are emboldened in confidently applying ourselves to being an effective part of the solution to resolving our nation’s food security challenges.
Thank you again for confidently entrusting into our hands, the organization of the 40th Farmers’ Day Exhibitions – Agrifest 2024.
To our extraordinary gallant farmers of our motherland, congratulations and Thank you for putting food on our tables, in spite of challenges you face each day.
You are truly the heartbeat of the nation.
You are the gold in our soils and the soul of the farm.
Thank you so much for all you do to contribute meaningfully to our livelihoods and sustenance.
We desire and wish for a day, where Farmers will be recognized in diverse ways on a weekly, monthly basis.
We desire for a day, our food systems will be innovatively enhanced in a way, that farmers produce will never go waste due to the introduction and establishment of appropriate mechanization and infrastructures across every district, community or Region.
We yearn to see a day, were our children will brag and boast at an early stage of taking farming as a major profession
We equally desire to see a day, where our agricultural educational system will be so competitive, such that, many more of our talented youth will take a decisive stand to take agric as their major, and not really as the option available.
As we celebrate our Farmers this week, we are also reminded to acknowledge, the role of all players, actors and stakeholders, who make the industry tick and thrive.
We have with us about two hundred and thirty- seven (237) of industry players, exhibiting this week at AgriFest.
We have the Machinery and equipment companies highly represented here at Agrifest.
We also have the Livestock, Poultry Fisheries and Aquaculture players.
The crop nutrition, crop protection players, farmers’ associations, research institutions, financial institutions, development agencies, also here.
The veterinaries and a great number of Agro processers are also represented, the food and beverage players are also not left out in Agrifest.
The Directorates under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, together with all the Regional Directorates are fully represented here.
This full house representation by industry players signifies a strong collaborative effort, bond, determination and support by all, to ensure a sustained growth, advancement and market expansion of our agricultural sector, leading to building a sustainable community, where agribusiness keeps rising and all players are happy.
Congratulations to all and Thank you for coming on board AgriFest, to display, interact, network, engage and project your innovations, tools and solutions that is impacting our farming operations and efficiently powering the farmers’ work!
You are the engine and power behind our farming, our yields and harvest – Thank you.
We remain confident, that our policies and business environment will grow much friendlier, to enable us all, stay in business and contribute in developing sustainable farmers and build a stronger agrifood future.
Personally, everything to do with Agriculture fills me with so much passion, power and fulfillment and this week-long celebration further commits us all to work towards one goal; – To drive Change, for tomorrow’s prosperity.
It also calls on us all, to be at the frontline in the movement to change the food security equations for Ghana today and for the future!
Once again, to our gallant farmers – congratulations and thank you, for nourishing our nation.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa
Founder/Executive Director – Agrihouse Foundation
by Linda Boateng | Oct 24, 2024 | News
Nebraska State Governor Jim Pillen has honored Ms. Ayishetu Abdullah, Deputy Director of the Economic, Trade and Investment Bureau at Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the special “Governor’s Ball” prize.
This beautiful gesture represents the deepening partnership between Ghana and Nebraska, especially in strengthening agricultural infrastructure, facilitating agribusiness trade, sharing knowledge, building capacity and developing activities aimed at unlocking new opportunities to push the agribusiness sectors in both Ghana and Nebraska toward a flourishing agricultural future.
Presenting the Governor’s Ball at a meet-and-greet session with a 30-member Ghanaian delegation, the Governor, Jim Pillen emphasized the importance of the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) in facilitating trade opportunities and fostering collaboration that adds significant value between the two regions.
Governor Jim Pillen’s presentation of the “Governor’s Ball” to Ms. Ayishetu Abdullah symbolizes much more than just a gift; it carries deep symbolic meaning tied to American culture and values.
Baseball, often referred to as America’s national pastime, represents the rich tradition of American identity, underscoring values such as teamwork, perseverance and collaboration.
In this context, the ball signifies the importance of working together and fostering unity between Nebraska and Ghana, especially through their shared commitment to agribusiness growth and trade relations.
The gesture echoes notable instances, such as when President George W. Bush presented a baseball to Pope Benedict XVI in 2008, symbolizing achievement, collaboration and goodwill.
Similarly, this token presented to Ms. Abdullah highlights the Nebraska-Ghana partnership’s efforts to achieve excellence, create opportunities and strengthen agribusiness collaboration, led by the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham).
Governor Jim Pillen praised the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) for serving as a vital platform for American businesses aiming to engage with Africa, particularly Ghana and for assisting Ghanaian companies in navigating Nebraska’s agricultural market.
“I am encouraged by the expanding trade and business connections between our regions and we are eager to collaborate with you to identify opportunities and explore how we can work together to foster mutual business growth.”
Ms. Ayishetu Abdullah expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Governor Jim Pillen of Nebraska for the great honor of receiving the Governor’s Ball in her name.
“I am deeply honored by Governor Jim Pillen’s recognition and his commitment to advancing agricultural trade and economic growth between Ghana and Nebraska. Together, we can create lasting opportunities that benefit both regions.”
She applauded Governor Pillen for his committed support and shared vision to foster stronger agricultural trade and boost economic growth between Ghana and Nebraska.
The Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) serves as a vital platform for American businesses aiming to engage with Africa, particularly Ghana, while assisting Ghanaian companies in navigating Nebraska’s agricultural market.
The chamber also fosters collaboration and trade opportunities between Nebraska’s agricultural sector and Ghana’s agribusiness industry, promoting sustainable practices and knowledge exchange to enhance their roles in global agricultural trade.
This partnership has focused heavily on facilitating smooth agricultural trade between African and Nebraskan businesses, with the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) acting as a bridge to connect farmers, agribusiness companies, and policymakers from both regions.
