The Growth And Fulfillment Of The USAID Advance Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Exhibitions And Conference In Ghana

The Growth And Fulfillment Of The USAID Advance Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Exhibitions And Conference In Ghana

by | Oct 21, 2024 | Uncategorized

It is exactly 1:17am midnight. I am sitting on the yellow coach in my room and, as usual, thinking about all our interventional projects at Agrihouse Foundation and our African expansion agenda for 2025.

I am also planning and plotting ahead of the next few weeks, where we all converge in the Northern Region, for the 14th time, to host what has grown to be one of the prime, major, and most sustainable market linkage events in the country – the Annual Preharvest Agribusiness Exhibitions and Conference event.

My mind cast back to the year 2017, when I, my fearful yet daring self, personally put in a bid to take over the Preharvest event after the exit of the USAID ADVANCE funded project.

The USAID ADVANCE Team had advertised online and all over in the print, their desire for an organization to take over the Preharvest and sustain it.

I sincerely, at that young age, did not realize that I was about to take up and carry on my shoulders a major issue to do with market access, post-harvest losses, linkages, matchmaking, capacity building, that the Preharvest, through USAID, hopes to address or find long term solutions to, for our farmers.

Well, I went through the process until the final stage when my very young organization, Agrihouse Foundation, won the bid – we were officially selected as the new implementing organization and lead organizers of the event after the exit of the USAID ADVANCE project implementers.

With a young and dedicated team, we took the mantle to co-organize the 2017 edition of the Preharvest event with the USAID ADVANCE team. The idea was to learn and equally under study the ADVANCE team, so we can fully understand and take over.

The then Chief of Party, Dr. Emmanuel Dormon, together with Mr. Nicholas Isaaka Gbana, the Technical adviser, and Mr. Cecil Osei who is now the  Chief of the Party of the USAID funded Ghana Market Systems and Resilience Activity, And  other amazing team members, held our hands, made us feel a full part of the Team, and took us through every detail of the Preharvest event.

I look back now with so much admiration for the USAID ADVANCE Team, their dedication and commitment to us. I say it without mincing words that the Dr. Emmanual Dormond led team contributed immensely to our ability to manage the Preharvest and, most importantly, laid the foundation for Agrihouse Foundation to grow.

I personally still cannot comprehend why the USAID office does not see Agrihouse Foundation as more of their handy work and models of success, when it comes to their role in empowering the youth.  The USAID ADVANCE did not just hand over an important event but, also demonstrated that, through Agrihouse Foundation’s young team, when the youth are empowered, resourced and directed, they can deliver and contribute to the advancement of our food systems; that is exactly what the USAID ADVANCE Project did through the Preharvest event.

This is a major win for the USAID, and I hope they will look back and be proud of what they have supported a young foundation to become, just by believing in us, being neutral and authentic and giving us an opportunity to manage the Preharvest event.

It was also during this same period of winning the bid that donor agencies and donor-funded organizations were advocating for inclusivity and, most importantly, the empowerment of women. USAID ADVANCE Project again gave Agrihouse Foundation an opportunity for women to lead.  During the time we won the bid, my team members then, were just four (4) in number and, interestingly, we were all women.

What Is the Pre-Harvest Event?

The Annual Pre-harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions, handed over to Agrihouse Foundation seven years ago by the USAID Advance Project after its exit, started in 2009. The event was essentially created as a market linkage activity linking farmers to buyers.

It started as a fully funded US activity for farmers in rice, maize and soyabean.

Between 2010 and 2017, the event was annually sponsoring about 200 farmers and actors by bringing them together for a full day to build their capacity, whiles linking them to buyers and markets.

The event also built the capacity of farmers with strategic negotiation skills to aid them when negotiating for pricing with farmers.

The overall goal and objectives of the Preharvest is to transform agriculture and provide long-term market development opportunities for farmers.

The event also stands to strengthen the capacity of farmer-based organizations and aggregators of grains to enable them play a key role as agricultural market actors in Ghana.

The award-winning market-linkage platform has, for the past thirteen years, grown to become the leading market linkage platform in the country, and has also lived up to its overall goal of creating markets and linking farmers to buyers.

The event has also assisted, and continues to assist, farmers and agri-businesses to expand their businesses, before and after harvesting, and to create an enabling environment for new partnerships to promote the growth of Ghana’s agricultural sector.

  1. Rationale

The event assists farmers and agri-businesses to expand their businesses before and after harvesting, and creates the needed enabling environment for new partnerships to promote the growth of Ghana’s agricultural sector.

Besides market growth, the event helps farmers adopt best practices to ensure that the achievements made within the industry are sustained.

Strategic Location of Event

The geographical focus is put on northern Ghana as the agricultural potential of the northern zone where irrigation possibilities are largely untapped. Hitherto, agriculture business, investment and development in Ghana have largely taken place in the south of the country, as well as massive farming of tropical (forest) cash crops, like cocoa and palm oil.

However, the northern part of Ghana, with at least 8 million unused acres of agricultural land with highly suitable soils, is open for large scale farming, development of modern agro-industry supply chains, poultry and vegetable oils, rice, sugar, cotton, cassava, shea, highly value-added tree crops, livestock, aquaculture, etc. (SADA, 2016).

From A One Day to A Three-Day Event

The annual Pre-Harvest event was initially organized as a one-day gathering by the USAID ADVANCE Project. However, due to its undeniable impact and growing influence in the agricultural sector, it has since evolved into a three-day event.

This shift was not made lightly, but rather driven by the increasing demand and overwhelming feedback from our diverse stakeholders. Farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, and development partners, consistently called for more time to engage, collaborate, and explore the wealth of opportunities the event offers.

In response, we extended its duration, ensuring that participants can maximize their experience, form stronger partnerships, and leverage the knowledge shared to enhance their agribusiness ventures. This transformation underscores the event’s significance and its vital role in advancing Ghana’s agricultural value chain.

The Private Sector Comes on Board

I cannot sit back and reflect on this journey without thinking about the incredible partners who have supported the Pre-Harvest event over the years. Their unwavering commitment to our vision of fostering a sustainable agricultural sector deserves our heartfelt gratitude.

I extend a special thanks to Yara Ghana, our steadfast sponsor for 14 consecutive years; GIZ-EUGAP; ADB Bank; Absa Bank; Interplast; Ecobank; Kanu Equipment; Horticulture Business Platform; GML Green Energy; and many others. We are truly grateful for their collaboration and dedication.

I also want to acknowledge our public sector partners, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Northern Regional Coordinating Council, for their continued support each year.

Your partnership is invaluable and plays a vital role in our collective mission to enhance Ghana’s agricultural landscape. Thank you all for being integral to our success.

The Impact of The Pre-Harvest

For over 13 years, the Pre-Harvest event has been a transformative force in the agricultural landscape, bringing together more than 100,000 value chain actors and stakeholders.

This includes diverse groups such as farmer cooperatives, buyers, development partners, policymakers, and agribusinesses, as well as those in the ICT sector and aggregators. The event also attracts input dealers, equipment and machinery suppliers, transporters, financial institutions, telecommunication companies, outgrowers, civil society organizations, and processors, all essential to the success of the agrifood sector.

In the previous year’s event, over 6,000 stakeholders participated across the three-day sessions, demonstrating strong engagement. A survey conducted afterward revealed an overwhelmingly positive response, with many expressing keen interest in attending future editions. This enthusiasm is largely due to the relevance and value of the discussions, sessions, and networking opportunities offered.

Moreover, the Pre-Harvest event has played a crucial role in connecting farmers to markets. Over its 13-year history, it has successfully linked more than 197,000 farmers with critical market opportunities, contributing significantly to their livelihoods and the broader agricultural economy.

As the event continues to grow in scope and impact, its role as a vital platform for networking, learning, and business opportunities remains unmatched in Ghana’s agricultural sector.

Recognition And Awards:

The Annual Pre-Harvest event holds a significant position in the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s annual schedule of activities, having established itself as a premier and consistent forum that brings together all actors in the agricultural sector. This event provides a platform for stakeholders to deliberate and take actionable steps towards enhancing productivity and sustainability in the sector.

The event’s vital role as a growth facilitator is evidenced by the unwavering support it has received from the government, development partners, and private sector sponsors. In recognition of its impactful contributions, the Pre-Harvest event was awarded the Agribusiness Event of the Year in 2018, highlighting its importance in driving agricultural progress and innovation.

The Preharvest Innovative Training And Demonstration Site

Agrihouse Foundation is currently developing a 10-acre Innovative Training and Demonstration Farmland in Kudula in Tamale, Northern region of Ghana, into a modern and standard agri-village. The agri-village shall provide shelter and conducive environment for the preservation of quality plants and crops in large quantities, as well as increase the productivity of animals and farmers. The village shall be designed to ensure safety and the good working condition of machineries and equipment.

The Project, when completed, will be the first of its kind in the country, with different types of farms, including seed and livestock farms, laboratories, training and conference halls.

It will also have a research unit, exhibition storage facility for agric companies, exhibition grounds, recreational and educational facilities, production room, demonstration fields, processing rooms, mechanized centres, library, nursery units and facilities to host agricultural events.  The complex will also serve as an academy for training Ghana’s sustainable farmers, and for growing the agri-tourism industry.

We are however calling on the government, corporate organizations, and development agencies to rally round us with financial and technical support to enable us establish this our agri-village complex as envisaged – a modern multi-faceted complex for the training and grooming of sustainable farmers.

The 14th Edition of The Preharvest Event

The event’s tradition of impact continues this year with an estimated project participation of about 7,000, and an increase in exhibitors, from last year’s 150 to 250 projected for 2024.

This 2024 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions event will take place from Tuesday, October 29, 2024, to Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at the Alhaji Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale. Under the theme: “Connecting the Unconnected: Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches.”

This year’s event aims to strengthen market linkages, promote technological innovations, and enhance productivity within the agricultural sector.

A key focus of this year’s Pre-Harvest event is improving market linkages. We will work closely with our partners to identify gaps and collaboratively establish a strategic path forward to connect and fortify business relationships among stakeholders in the agribusiness ecosystem.

A top priority is the development of a technical pathway, featuring practical sessions and demonstrations that will educate and connect our farmers with companies offering products and services designed to enhance productivity, expedite farm business processes, and ensure food and nutrition security.

With over 250 exhibitors expected to participate, this year’s event will gather the entire agribusiness ecosystem, bringing together farmers, farmer groups, input dealers, financial institutions, tractor and machinery companies, government agencies, processors, development partners, and more.

The collaboration of these diverse stakeholders will create a vibrant atmosphere for knowledge exchange and innovation, setting the stage for a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural future.

Just as last year, a number of activities have been lined-up, to make year’s event more valuable, interactive, engaging and impactful, to participants and attendees.

Activities for the two (2) days event will include:

For the next three years, the Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions will be focused on “Connecting the Unconnected.”

This vision embodies our commitment to bridging gaps across various sectors of the agricultural value chain, ensuring inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation that benefits every stakeholder, from smallholder farmers to large agribusinesses.

We have identified that there are gaps that affect the achievement of partnerships that foster knowledge-sharing, digital literacy, and access to technology, hence our choice and emphasis on Connectivity this year in order to ensure that every farmer, entrepreneur, and agribusiness has a stake in feeding the future.

This year’s focus, “Connecting the Unconnected: Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches,” also emphasizes the critical role that innovation and technology play in transforming agriculture.

We appreciate that, as we work towards food security, it is crucial to integrate cutting-edge technologies and modern approaches that empower farmers, improve productivity, and create sustainable solutions for the future. Consequently, we will also drive conversations around how to equip rural communities with the tools and resources needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving agrifood landscape.

With the above in mind, we have strategically designed programs that will innovatively address all the issues that we have identified and provide proper solutions towards effective resolutions.  

One major way we are doing this is through the farmer-to-farmer  Apprenticeship session, where experienced professionals working in various sectors of the agricultural space take the lead in offering hands-on practical education to farmers with the aim of  bridging the gap between theory and practice by allowing farmers to learn directly from experts who have encompassing understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector.

Commodity Breakout Session

The commodity breakout sessions are targeted at various groups, including rice sellers, sorghum sellers, cowpea farmers, maize farmers, and vegetable farmers. By offering tailored support and guidance for each commodity, we aim to provide farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve higher productivity and profitability.

Farmers during this session will be grouped into different rooms where experts engage in meaningful dialogue with them. The focus of these discussions is on the specific commodities that the farmers are cultivating, identifying the challenges they face, and exploring the gaps in their current practices. Experts will provide practical advice on how to enhance yields and increase productivity, all in line with the overarching goal of harnessing the fruits of “Connecting the Unconnected.”

Farmer-Buyer Matchmaking

The Farmer-to-Buyer Session is a crucial feature of the Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions, aimed at empowering farmers by building their capacity in negotiation and business skills. This session is designed to bridge the gap between farmers and buyers, fostering stronger market linkages that will enhance the economic opportunities for all stakeholders involved.

Before these sessions, farmers will undergo intensive training to develop key negotiation skills that enable them to engage confidently with buyers. This capacity building ensures that farmers are not only aware of the value of their produce but are also equipped to negotiate fair deals that reflect the quality and quantity of their products. By understanding market dynamics, pricing strategies, and the importance of contract agreements, farmers gain a deeper insight into the business side of agriculture.

Once trained, farmers have the opportunity to meet with pre-registered buyers – these could be agro-processing companies, wholesalers, retailers, or exporters. The Farmer-to-Buyer Session facilitates one-on-one meetings where farmers can present their produce, discuss terms, and negotiate prices. The structured nature of these meetings allows for the formal signing of deals, laying the foundation for long-term partnerships that can offer consistent market access for the farmers.

By this, we aim to create a pathway for greater market access, reducing post-harvest losses, and helping farmers transition from subsistence farming to a more commercially-driven model. This interaction is also key to creating more resilient supply chains that can meet the growing demand for food in Ghana and beyond.

Exhibitions

Spanning the entirety of the two-day event, an engaging exhibition showcase will unfold, creating a space for buying and selling at affordable prices.

This dynamic platform serves as a hub for exploring the latest innovations, products, and services that are driving advancements in the agricultural sector, ranging from crop varieties, seeds, farm equipment and machinery, agrochemicals and fertilizers, livestock, amongst others.

Outcomes and Expectations

The two days event is expected to provide participants with a common platform where diverse services linked to the agric sector will converge to provide mutually beneficial ends

Participants will be taken through practical and engaging sessions to enable them gain deeper insights into best practices and how to take advantage of the numerous opportunities in the agriculture sector.

The two-day event will feature sessions designed to give participants in-depth insight into the state of the agriculture industry today and exposure to the inherent opportunities, such as commodity break-out sessions, intensive and focused training programs, farmer -buyer matchmaking dialogue, training, panel education sessions, field demonstrations, keynotes, and exhibitions, whilst displaying, promoting business, and creating networking opportunities

2025: Creating An African Pathway

As we engage with stakeholders from across the agricultural value chain, we are laying the groundwork for: Creating an African Pathway for 2025.

By this, we seek to harness the collective expertise and resources of farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, and development partners to address the pressing challenges facing the agricultural sector. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we aim to create sustainable solutions that empower African farmers and enhance food security across the continent.

Through targeted discussions, workshops, and practical demonstrations at this year’s event, we will identify key strategies and actions that will guide us toward a resilient agricultural future. Our focus will be on promoting technological advancements, improving market access, and enhancing productivity, ensuring that African agriculture can meet the demands of a growing population.

As we embark on this journey, we invite all participants to contribute their insights and experiences, helping to shape a shared vision for 2025. Together, we can establish a robust pathway that, not only elevates agricultural practices in Ghana, but also serves as a model for other African nations.

By working hand in hand, we can create an inclusive and prosperous agricultural landscape that uplifts communities and drives economic growth throughout the continent.

Join The 14th Edition of The Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Exhibitions And Conference Event

We invite all stakeholders and value chain actors to get ready to embark on an Agribusiness Adventure like never before.  Join us from October 29-30, 2024 at the Alhaji Aliu Mahama Sport Stadium and Agrihouse foundation Agri-village, Kudula in Tamale, Northern Region, for the highly anticipated 14th edition of the pre-harvest agribusiness exhibitions and conference event.

Discover the ultimate platform that connects farmers, market players and agribusinesses, unlocking endless opportunities for growth, innovation and success.

The 14TH edition of the Pre-harvest event is designed as an ideal scenario to foster collaborations and integration within the industry.

Over the course of the three days, participants will have the opportunity to exchange experiences, explore appropriate technologies, enhance productivity, and create a network of opportunities.

Don’t miss out on this transformative event that’s been making waves in the agricultural industry over a decade now!

click on the  link  https://forms.gle/gpmbDBy3AUnSMjWF6  to register to be a part of the 14th annual Pre-Harvest Exhibition and Conference

Mayor Stan Clouse Praises Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Chamber as a Key Hub for U.S. Market Entry

Mayor Stan Clouse Praises Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Chamber as a Key Hub for U.S. Market Entry

by | Oct 14, 2024 | News

Nebraska State Mayor Stan Clouse has commended the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) for its commitment to building sustainable partnerships that enhance agricultural trade ties between Ghana and Nebraska.

Addressing the 30-member Ghanaian delegation at the recently concluded Husker Harvest Days and trade and investment event, Mayor Stan Clouse also praised the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) for serving as a hub that facilitates smoother agricultural trade operations, helping African and Nebraskan businesses navigate the U.S. agricultural market.

“This is my first exposure to the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber’s efforts and the growing partnership between Ghana and Nebraska, and I must say I am impressed”.

The Mayor applauded the delegation’s initiative, pointing out that their willingness to learn from Nebraska’s advanced agricultural practices would foster a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship between the two regions.

He also emphasized that Ghana could benefit from Nebraska’s agricultural innovations, which have the potential to transform Ghana’s agricultural sector and contribute to its long-term success.

The Husker Harvest Days is a major U.S. agricultural event held annually in Nebraska, offering opportunities for agribusiness knowledge exchange and showcasing advanced farming techniques.

Every year the Ghana Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber in collaboration with its partners, facilitates trade delegates to participate in Husker Harvest Days.

Last year, the Chamber worked with the U.S. Embassy to facilitate a 22-member business delegation to the United States for networking and business connections.

The delegates represented a diverse array of institutions, including input, machinery and equipment companies, as well as seed, fertilizer and crop protection companies. Others included representatives from finance, agro-processing, commercial farming and marketing, exporting and importing sectors.

The Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham), an international representative body that brings together Nebraska senators, farmers, agribusinesses and their Ghanaian counterparts, gained momentum in 2023 at the Husker Harvest Days event in Nebraska.

As a non-profit organization, The Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) focuses on creating strong business linkages, fostering trade relations, and promoting sustainable growth by connecting agribusinesses in Ghana and Nebraska.

The Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) is committed to strengthening the agricultural sector through various initiatives, including exchange programs, webinars, workshops, capacity-building sessions, trade fairs, matchmaking events, and community-driven projects, all aimed at fostering growth and collaboration in agribusiness.

The Chamber actively promotes business development across a wide range of sectors, fostering robust connections between Ghana and Nebraska.

Its initiatives span critical industries including crops, livestock, and agro-processing, focusing on enhancing agricultural productivity and value chain efficiencies, by facilitating the exchange of raw materials, modern machinery, equipment and inputs.

Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber also supports sectors such as irrigation, food production and education, ensuring sustainable growth and capacity building, through agrotech and tech industries.

Kanu Equipment Partners with Agrihouse Foundation for the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition

Kanu Equipment Partners with Agrihouse Foundation for the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Press Release

Kanu Equipment Ghana Ltd, a leading provider of agricultural, construction and earthmoving machinery in Ghana, has partnered with Agrihouse Foundation for the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition, scheduled to take place from October 29-30 ,2024 at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium, in Tamale, in the Northern Region of Ghana.

The partnership underscores kanu equipment’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s agricultural sector by providing world-class Machinery and Implements designed to enhance productivity and profitability for farmers.

This year’s event, themed “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches,” aligns perfectly with Kanu Equipment’s vision of driving agricultural transformation across the continent.

By working together with Agrihouse Foundation, Kanu aims to empower smallholder farmers, agribusinesses, and key stakeholders with cutting-edge technology and equipment that can help bridge the gap between farmers and markets, and ultimately improve food security in Ghana.

Speaking at the launch of the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition, Ms. Kate Awunyo, Sales Executive for Kanu Equipment, emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering farmers with innovative solutions. She stated, “Kanu Equipment’s decision to partner with Agrihouse Foundation for the 14th Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition reflects our dedication to supporting farmers in achieving more efficient and sustainable operations. Through this partnership, we will showcase Our range of Case Tractors designed to meet the specific needs of the agricultural community, with a particular focus on increasing mechanization and reducing manual labor in farming operations.”

“We recognize that the agricultural landscape in Ghana is rapidly evolving, and it is essential for farmers to adapt to these changes to remain competitive. Our partnership with Agrihouse Foundation allows us to connect with farmers directly, providing them not only with the right tools but also with the knowledge and resources to maximize their potential. By integrating advanced technology and innovative practices into their operations, we aim to help farmers increase their yield, improve the quality of their produce, and ultimately enhance their profitability.”

“Moreover, we believe that investing in agriculture is crucial for the economic development of Ghana. By providing access to state-of-the-art machinery and promoting sustainable practices, we can contribute to the transformation of the agricultural sector, which plays a vital role in food security and the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership presents, and we are committed to working collaboratively with Agrihouse Foundation and our agricultural stakeholders to foster a thriving agribusiness ecosystem.”

Expressing her appreciation to Kanu Equipment ‘s support, Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, highlighted their role in promoting the agricultural sector. She emphasized that Kanu Equipment Ghana Ltd stands out as an exemplary organization that has generously supported the growth of Ghana’s agriculture sector.

“We are immensely grateful to Kanu Equipment for their unwavering support and commitment to this event. Their sponsorship will not only make the annual event a success but will also play a pivotal role in driving agricultural innovation in Ghana. With their support, we are able to provide a comprehensive platform that equips our farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.”

“This partnership   represents a shared vision for a sustainable agricultural future where smallholder farmers are empowered with the latest technologies and practices,” she added. “Together, we aim to foster collaboration and innovation to address the challenges of food security and climate change head-on.”

The 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition promises to be a pivotal event for stakeholders seeking to drive innovation and collaboration within Ghana’s agricultural landscape.

About The Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition

Agrihouse foundation’s, Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions event, for the past 13 years, have provided and created market linkages and built the capacity of over 150,000 value chain actors and stakeholders.

Beneficiaries and participants of the annual Preharvest event ranges from farmer groups, buyers, development partners, policy makers, agribusinesses, ICT professionals, and aggregators. Others include input dealers, equipment and machinery dealers, transporters, financial institutions, telecommunication companies, out growers, civil society, and processors, who converge in the Northern Region, to network, exhibit, share knowledge, train, engage in field demonstration activities and most importantly, negotiate and seal deals.

The intervention has served as a stimulating platform for match-making, exchange, agribusiness development, stakeholder linkages, and has brought about growth in local economies, through the creation of expanded agribusiness opportunities. It has also assisted in removing constraints on market access for farmers and agribusinesses who require access to lucrative markets and economic opportunities to improve their livelihoods and those of their families.

The annual Pre-Harvest event, culminates with conference events, presentations, exhibitions, and a marketplace for business-to-business meetings.

It continuous to serve as a dynamic platform for farmers to negotiate and seal contracts and strengthen the capacity of Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs), Aggregators, Processors, and value chain actors for them to play a key role as agricultural market actors.

The Future of Food Through the Agrifood Future Event-Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa’s Reflection

The Future of Food Through the Agrifood Future Event-Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa’s Reflection

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Article

I had the opportunity to participate in the second edition of the AgriFood Future in Selormo, Italy at the invitation of President Andrea Prete of Unioncamere and Professor Alexander Giordano, founder of Rural Hack few weeks ago.

My presence and observations has marked and sparked a mind transformative perspective, of our collective ambition for the future of food and the positioning of Ghana and Africa as a whole, in the overall agrifood future agenda.

What is AgriFood future?

The Agrifood Future is a national event that aims to offer a moment of discussion on food innovations, ecological transition, digital transition and sustainability.

As we may all be aware,  the food system is one of the main drivers of change in the world’s ecosystem and is, at the same time, deeply affected by major climate and geopolitical changes.

On the horizon looms the need to feed the 10 billion people who are expected to live on the planet Earth in 2050 and it is, therefore, necessary to rethink the methods of production, processing, transport, packaging and consumption of food to reduce the footprint of these activities on the environment and ecosystems.

Agrifood Future is one of the first events in southern Italy that focuses on 8 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that constitute the vital core of the 2030 Agenda.

The  AgriFood Future is  dedicated to the future of the agri-food sector. A future that is not only exclusively Italian but global.

It was held  in the province of Salerno, which has a high level of economic value in the agri-food sector.

The five(5) day AgriFood future event, was successfully delivered under the theme, Building a Sustainable Business In the Food Systems with AI,

It was a gathering of Agricultural change makers and  think tanks in Technology and innovation, passionate young people across Italy who demonstrated through the Summer School, their strategic approaches and power to drive change, actors within the value chain and public and private sector leaders.

 For President Prete, Prof Alex and myself, my participation was a commitment to highlight the critical role of cross-continental collaboration in addressing pressing agricultural challenges and capitalizing on opportunities within agritech and food systems. This we all agree is in the right direction.

The Agrifood Future event had two strategic approaches; one key part was leveraging the enthusiasm and innovative capacities of youth to enhance food security, promote sustainable practices, and influence agricultural policies, by connecting young minds.

This was successfully executed through the Summer School.

The other strategic sessions, leveraged on the strengths of experts within the industry to discuss diverse topics in innovation  and digital approach which  can aid to advance and sustain the future of food.

I could see the program’s immense significance in offering huge benefits to Ghana, Africa and the Caribbean regions through its platform for the exchange of knowledge, technology, and expertise.

The AgriFood Future program for me, represents a much more advanced and  crucial mechanism for supporting Africa’s agribusinesses and the broader agricultural ecosystem.

As climate change, shifting consumer demands, and global trade policies reshape the agrifood landscape, the knowledge and technology shared at this event will be instrumental in equipping African countries with the tools needed to thrive.

The event adequately served as an effective facilitator of meaningful collaborations.

 As I interacted with fellow participants, it became evident that there is a growing interest in fostering partnerships between African and European institutions.

This was evident also in my forty-five minutes interactive session with President Prete.

Italian stakeholders, like President Prete believes so much in the energies of Africa to solving the global food crisis and the desire for Africans at a large, to be part of further strengthening and developing the AgriFood Future event is a stronger agenda and commitment to the entire organization.

The AgriFood Future participants were particularly impressed with Agrihouse Foundation’s successful advocacy and interventional modules in contributing to the Food security agenda.

The most important part for us all, is our commitment to work together to further expand the AgriFood future event, so more actors across Africa, the Carribean and Meditterean to be a part of this movement of change and to contribute meaningful in all dialogues, that will positively influence our food systems.

As changemakers and influecers in our respective fields, we remain the frontline in the movement to change the food security equation across the globe today.

AgriFood Future believes that the influence from both Africa and the European community can be transformative and thus, the need for a stronger presence in future events and related activities.

 I stand with AgriFood Future also, in their submission on Food and its linkage to sustainability.

The future of food and the food chain as a whole is linked to sustainability.We must thus all unite with one call and commitment to promote sustainability, through innovative approaches and technology. This is one major take home, also from the AgriFood future event.

I would also like to place a spotlight on the AgriFood Future’s program flow, set-up and format, which sufficiently allows room for networking and the exchange of ideas, and I found that very invaluable.

The rich tapestry of experiences shared by participants not only inspired dialogue but also paved the way for future projects that can address pressing agricultural issues both locally and globally.

I am optimistic about the future of the agri-food sector.

The collective expertise and innovative ideas presented during AgriFood Future 2024 have the potential to drive significant change in the future of agri-food.An integral demonstration of praiseworthy partnerships that work is what I foresee and anticipate that AgriFood Future platform to be in the next one to three years.

Agrifood Future is a moment of reflection to try to understand the developments in the sector.

With Agrifood, the opportunity is given to delve deeper and discuss everything because food is not just agriculture.

There is a whole supply chain that goes from production to transformation, to logistics, to marketing. Without forgetting tourism which, especially in Italy, is linked to food and wine.

All themes to be developed. There is a much bigger world around the food sector.

I think that, as we move forward, it is crucial to continue expanding the scope of participation from African stakeholders. This inclusivity will ensure that we can tackle challenges such as climate adaptation, financing for smallholder farmers, and sustainable food production more effectively.

With countries like Ghana at the forefront, Africa will be positioned to adopt sustainable farming practices and innovative solutions that cater to its diverse agricultural environments, creating a platform to share rich resources, experiences, and perspectives on food security and sustainability with the global community.

Frankly, I must confess that I am truly humbled by the organizers’ kind decision to honour me with the AgriFood Future Prize award for my contributions to strengthening agri-food systems across Africa, particularly in Ghana. Truly, this recognition assures me that no effort made for good, especially for the good of a society, is ever wasted or unappreciated. This can only encourage people like me, and others who have been so recognized, to do more because, there is so much work to be done out there.

Mr. Andrea Prete’s recognition and commendation of our initiatives in Ghana is particularly appreciated.

The future of Food and particularly, the AgriFood Future is promising and powerful, with its positioning to have an inclusive representation and participation and increasing African voices on the dialogues is essential.

This I believe, would allow for a more comprehensive approach to solving the challenges specific to the continent, such as climate change adaptation, modern agritech adoption, value chain development, and financing for smallholder farmers.

By broadening the scope and discussions and increasing opportunities for African stakeholders to contribute, the program would surely become a vital platform for solving other critical issues like food security, as well as fostering stronger partnerships, thus creating a more interconnected and mutually beneficial global agricultural community.

On the summer school session for students, I think that the event could make room for educational exchanges for students.

This initiative will certainly  provide  start-ups, students and beginners across the globe, the unique opportunity to learn from leading experts and My experience with the beginners is a true reflection of beginners I work with and those who annually participate in our Agrihouse Foundation’s Agricultural Student Career Guidance and Mentorship Bootcamp.

Youth who keep pushing the boundaries and demonstrating beyond reasonable doubts, that when given the platform or provided the needed resources, they would be able to contribute innovatively to the advancement of our food systems.

Mr. Andrea Prete, the President of Unioncamere, again and appropriately underscored the importance of sustainability and technological innovation in shaping the future of the agri-food sector; with a good stress on the vital place of technological innovation in addressing attendant challenges. Coming from the continent where I come from, I consider all of that a rich takeaway from this forum; and I seriously look forward to the future where Agrihouse Foundation and Unioncamere would be on the field in Africa executing the application of their technological innovation to address our challenges.

The whole conversation on Agriculture and AI was very strong for me, and I believe in the crucial role it can play in helping countries around the world develop cutting-edge agriculture.

I consider it imperative that accessibility to AI should not be the preserve of any particular region of the world but “to everyone…for future growth” as he rightly said.

Africa is a key player in the future of global agriculture and with this understanding, my optimism in strengthening our collaborations with Agrifood Future becomes stronger.

In conclusion, I believe that my participation in the second AgriFood Future in Selormo, Italy, marks a significant step forward for Africa’s agrifood systems.

Surely, this global platform offers Africa a better forum to address its agricultural challenges whilst contributing to the broader conversation on the future of food systems. The program offers not only immediate benefits but also long-term opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and sustainable development that will shape the future of agriculture for generations to come.

Indeed, the Future of Food collaborations to strengthen our Food systems have arrive and I am eager to be part of the 2025 AgriFood Future event and of course, with strong African, Caribbean and a mediterean representation.

The World Gathers In Rome For FAO’s World Food Forum Flagship Event…

The World Gathers In Rome For FAO’s World Food Forum Flagship Event…

by | Oct 7, 2024 | Article

Rome is all set to host and witness once again, a gathering of over seven thousand (7000) world experts, impassioned changemakers and visionary leaders of all ages including youth, for the 2024 World food Forum Flagship event.

Mr Victor Muiru, Head of Local Youth Action,World Food Forum -FAO
Mr Victor Muiru, Head of Local Youth Action,World Food Forum -FAO

Slated to be held from October 14 to 18, 2024, the World food Forum flagship event has over the years, remained as a premier global agrifood platform to leverage the power of intergenerational collaboration, on  the power of intergenerational collaboration, as well as partnerships and action across policy, science, innovation, education, culture and investment.

Moreover, it is also committed to supporting and growing youth initiatives in the agrifood sector, with a collective mission to co-create actionable solutions to advance agrifood systems transformation, across the globe.

Organized around three pillars – Global Youth Action, Science and Innovation and Hand-in-Hand Investment, the 5-day World Food Forum flagship event is driving behind the thematic focus -“Good Food for All, for Today and Tomorrow”.

This light but deep-rooted theme put us all on the spotlight to further assess, how our actions are contributing to the future of food and the vision we have for the sustenance of the agrifood sector.

Throughout the week, attendees will participate in a Youth Forum where a Youth Assembly involving young people discussing specific policy topics and issues within agrifood systems will take center stage. The Youth Forum will also feature live pitching sessions, workshops and exhibitions that will highlight groundbreaking agricultural startups and youth-led initiatives, all aimed at driving innovation in the sector. It will also include a Global School Assembly inspiring the next generation of agrifood enthusiasts, advocates and practitioners.

Over fifty(50) WFF National Youth Chapter leaders will also be present best practices in building all-inclusive national youth-led agrifood platforms that would be able to address localized challenges, within the agrifood systems.

Some other key events in the Forum include the Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum, a platform for national authorities to present investment opportunities to investors, development banks, the private sector and donors. The Forum will also involve the Rome Water Dialogue, where experts will address the pressing issue of water scarcity in agriculture and feature a dedicated session on Family Farming.

Within the week is also the slated celebrations of World Food Day. This global event will underscore the commitment to ending hunger and building resilient food systems that can withstand the challenges of tomorrow.

Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa National Lead, World Food Forum Ghana Chapter
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa National Lead, World Food Forum Ghana Chapter

From Ghana, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, World Food Forum Ghana Chapter Lead and Agrihouse Foundation’s Founder, will mount the stage, together with other National Youth Chapter leads from Indonesia, Brazil, Egypt and Ireland to share an African regional perspective and highlight best practices in mobilizing youth-led action at the local level to achieve more sustainable agrifood systems

“I am excited about this impactful opportunity to join, share and engage extraordinary global leaders and youth at the WFF flagship event. It presents an opportunity to further highlight our works as the Ghana Chapter and our interventional modules at Agrihouse Foundation”.

I am equally excited about the learnings from this event and remain committed to leveraging the knowledge and networks acquired to implement local solutions that address the unique challenges our agricultural sector faces. By investing in youth-led initiatives, we can create a more resilient and sustainable future for food systems in our communities.” We are eager to build on these learnings to strengthen the World Food Forum Ghana Chapter – Alberta emphasized.

Anthony AidooSteering Committee Chair , world food forum Ghana Chapter
Anthony Aidoo Steering Committee Chair , World Food Forum Ghana Chapter

Adding his voice, the Steering Committee Chair for the world food forum Ghana Chapter, Anthony Aidoo said, “This event will provide us the unique opportunity to learn and grow the World Food Forum Ghana Chapter.Our International Youth Day activity made significant impact, with intensive media waves and we have a mandate to sustain the gains and impact.The WFF Ghana Chapter is committed to inspiring the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture.We believe that by involving young people in decision-making processes, we can ensure that their perspectives and innovations are reflected in the agrifood system that we develop.