by Bismark | Dec 4, 2023 | Article, News
In an effort to elevate Ghana’s cassava industry onto the global stage, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, delivered a compelling address to a global audience at the recently concluded International Cassava Fair in Brazil.
Addressing the topic “Securing Ghana’s Future Through Cassava” at the International Cassava Fair in Brazil, Ms. Akosa passionately advocated for a transformative approach to Ghana’s cassava industry, emphasizing the critical need to reshape the narrative around cassava cultivation in the country and the necessity for value addition.
The international cassava fair (FIMAN) 2023, organized by Podium Alimentos, was held from Tuesday, November 21st, to Thursday, November 23rd, 2023, aiming to foster knowledge exchange, networking, and collaborative exploration in the cassava sector. Ms. Akosa highlighted the crucial role of Ghana-Brazil collaboration in propelling advancements within Ghana’s cassava industry to significantly contribute to food security and economic growth in the country.
Ms. Akosa also shed light on the unique opportunities and challenges facing Ghana’s cassava industry, exploring avenues for collaboration with international partners, adoption of best practices, value addition, mechanization, and innovative strategies. The goal is to position Ghana as a major player in the global cassava market.
CELEBRATING CASSAVA: A DEFICIT IN GHANA: Despite its immense potential, Ms. Akosa highlighted the startling reality that Ghana is not celebrating cassava enough. The majority of cassava farming is directed towards domestic consumption, with limited emphasis on value addition. While there are noteworthy industries engaged in starch and alcohol production, the broader cassava sector struggles to secure the attention it deserves, particularly in comparison to the historically dominant cocoa and gold industry. With an annual production of 22 million metric tonnes, the time is ripe for a paradigm shift.
“Despite the abundance of opportunities in our cassava value chain, it remains underrated and under-celebrated. We all know how easy it is to grow cassava here in Ghana. Our country, our youth, our women, and the industry as a whole stand to gain more if we fully explore and embrace the vast potential within the cassava value chain, it is time for Ghana to mine Cassava as it mines Gold. Our country needs more cassava factories, farms, varieties, and equipment, such as planters, harvesters, dryers, and washers’’. ,” stated Ms. Akosa.
CULTIVATING CASSAVA’S HIDDEN RICHES: Ms. Akosa also underscored the need for a paradigm shift in Ghana’s agricultural focus. Cassava, often relegated to subsistence farming, stands on the precipice of a transformative revolution. The abundance of this resilient crop represents an untapped resource that, with the right attention, could blossom into a driving force for economic growth and food security.
With a production capacity that rivals cocoa, the time is ripe for Ghana to seize the opportunity and usher in a new era of cassava appreciation. Ms. Akosa’s call for a paradigm shift extends beyond the agricultural landscape; it beckons a recalibration of societal perceptions, urging Ghanaians to recognize the economic and nutritional potential that cassava holds.
While notable industries engage in starch and alcohol production, there remains immense scope for diversification. The versatility of cassava extends far beyond the traditional, offering a canvas for innovative products and industries. Encouraging value addition not only benefits local farmers but also positions Ghana on the global stage as a key player in the cassava market.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES: NAVIGATING THE CASSAVA LANDSCAPE: The Executive Director outlined the current challenges facing Ghana’s cassava industry. Traditional farming methods, predominantly through the use of cutlasses and hoes, remain prevalent. However, she noted a positive trend with an increasing number of women smallholder farmers contributing to the sector.
The existence of 32 cassava varieties developed by research institutions reflects the genetic diversity available for exploration,Yet challenges persist, A lack of machinery and equipment for processing, drying, and planting hinders efficiency. The knowledge gap for value addition and the absence of diverse recipes to encourage farmers to explore alternative uses of cassava contribute to the stagnation of the sector.
PROPOSED MEASURES: CATALYZING A CASSAVA REVOLUTION: Ms. Akosa laid out a comprehensive set of proposals to propel the cassava sector forward. This includes the urgent development and availability of domestic and edible seed varieties, the infusion of machinery and equipment at every stage of the production process, and a robust effort to address the knowledge gap hindering value addition. The call for capacity building and know-how to commercialize cassava effectively was underscored, along with increased investment in inputs and technology.
GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION: A significant portion the address was dedicated to advocating for government intervention. A strategic focus on cassava, the establishment of cassava farms, and support for farmers with improved seeds and markets are crucial steps. She urged the exploration of partnerships for industrialization and commercialization, positioning cassava as the next economic powerhouse akin to cocoa and gold. The initiative, she emphasized, would not only create more employment opportunities but also generate much-needed revenue.
LEARNING FROM BRAZIL’S CASSAVA SUCCESS STORY: In highlighting Brazil’s advanced cassava industry, Ms. Akosa provided a blueprint for Ghana’s future. Brazil’s utilization of cassava for starch, ethanol, and the creation of over 1000 food recipes showcase the boundless potential of this crop. The adoption of biogas production from cassava waste further illustrates the versatility that can be harnessed.
“Brazil’s cassava industry is budding and booming with a high level of value addition. This is an area Ghana can adopt to improve the value chains. Our women and beginner agribusinesses stand to gain a lot in terms of job creation by adding value to cassava. Brazil currently has over 1000 cassava food recipes. Ghana’s climate is much similar to Brazil and I am confident, transferring of knowledge and know-how in cassava food nutrition recipes will be an added value.
According to her, the Cassava industry is a huge jackpot in Brazil. Brazilian Agric manufacturers have been able to develop and manufacture equipment, such as cassava dryers, washers, planters, harvesters, etc., that enhance speed and bring about efficiency. This is a big leap for Ghana, should we be able to partner with Brazilian Manufacturers to develop machinery and equipment as these for our sector.
CONCLUSION: A TRANSFORMATIVE VISION FOR GHANA’S CASSAVA FUTURE: Ms. Akosa concluded her address with a powerful call to action. Beyond showcasing Ghana’s cassava sector, the initiative seeks to foster connections and explore sustainable business opportunities within the dynamic global cassava value chain. With the potential for Ghana to emerge as a key player in the international cassava market, the time is ripe for a Cassava Revolution—a transformative vision to secure Ghana’s agricultural future.
‘’ As we celebrate our agricultural diversity, let us not overlook the golden potential that cassava holds in propelling our nation towards a more sustainable and prosperous future. It is my desire to see Ghana mining Cassava in the next three to five years. Partnering with Brazilian Cassava players is one sure step to get there. We need the exchange of ideas, transfer of knowledge, and all that is needed to grow the sector.’’ She concluded
by Bismark | Nov 23, 2023 | Article, Press Release
The Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, is poised to address a global audience at the International Cassava Fair in Brazil today, Thursday, November 23rd, on the topic “Leveraging International Platforms to Commodify Cassava in Ghana.”
Emphasizing the significance of commodifying cassava in Ghana, Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa’s keynote address will underscore the pivotal role of international collaboration in catalysing advancements within Ghana’s cassava industry. This insightful discourse aims to position Ghana as a key player on the global agricultural stage.
This strategic initiative goes beyond showcasing the ingenuity within Ghana’s cassava sector; it also aims to foster invaluable connections and explore sustainable business opportunities within the dynamic global cassava value chain.
Ms. Akosa, will also shed light on the unique opportunities and challenges facing Ghana’s cassava industry, exploring avenues for collaboration with international partners, the adoption of best practices, value addition ,mechanization and the implementation of innovative strategies to position Ghana as a major player in the global cassava market.
This focus on the immense potential of cassava as a cash crop aims to contribute significantly to food security and economic growth in Ghana.
Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa ,will also delve into how Ghana can leverage the International Cassava Fair platform, to enhance value addition in processing transportation and mechanization among others .
Moreover, she will emphasize the collaborative potential of the International Cassava Fair in facilitating capacity building. This includes bringing resource persons from Brazil to Ghana, imparting valuable knowledge and skills.
Attendees at the International Cassava Fair will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the present and future of Ghana’s cassava industry and the crucial role that collaboration on the global stage can play in its success. The event promises to be a milestone in the ongoing efforts to position Ghana as a key player in the international cassava market.
The International Cassava Fair (FIMAN), organized by Podium Alimentos in Brazil which opened on Tuesday, November 21st and expected to end on Thursday, November 23rd, 2023, represents a pivotal moment for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaborative exploration in the cassava sector .
Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to showcasing Ghana’s cassava industry on the global stage, Agrihouse Foundation, the official franchise holder for the International Cassava Fair in Ghana, lead a delegation of 17 esteemed figures across diverse sectors of the Ghanaian agricultural landscape at the International Cassava Fair in Paranavaí, Brazil.
This fair provides a unique platform for the Ghanaian delegation, comprising visionaries from various segments, including farmers, processors, input dealers, Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs), aggregators, and other key players in the agricultural value chain.
the Ghanaian delegation are actively participating as exhibitors, engaging in illuminating Business Matchmaking sessions, and pursuing collaborative initiatives with international counterparts. This multifaceted approach underscores the delegation’s dedication to not only showcasing the present capabilities of Ghana’s cassava industry but also fostering future growth through strategic partnerships.
This diverse and influential delegation not only serves as ambassadors for Ghana’s cassava industry but also positions the nation as a key player in the global agricultural landscape.
As Agrihouse Foundation continues to lead the charge, the future of Ghana’s cassava sector looks promising, marked by innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth.
by Bismark | Nov 20, 2023 | News, Press Release
Agrihouse Foundation has been honoured with the prestigious American Chamber of Commerce Ghana (AmCham) Award for its exceptional organization and promotion of the 2023 U.S-Ghana Business Expo.
The distinguished accolade was presented during the 2023 AmCham Ghana Thanksgiving Dinner and Awards Night held at the Labadi Beach Hotel on Saturday, November 18, 2023, themed “U.S. and Ghana Diaspora: Agents of Development and Prosperity.”
Known for its commitment to acknowledging excellence in initiatives fostering global partnerships, the American Chamber of Commerce, Ghana (AmCham), commended Agrihouse Foundation’s unwavering dedication, contribution, and hard work in organizing and promoting the 2023 Maiden edition of the U.S-Ghana Business Expo, held at the Labadi Beach Hotel from the 10th to 11th of August 2023, under the theme “Leveraging U.S-Ghana Trade Relations for Growth and Prosperity.”
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, stated, “We are honoured to receive this award from the American Chamber of Commerce. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and the collaborative spirit that propels our mission. Serving as the event organizers for the 2023 U.S-Ghana Business Expo was both a privilege and a tremendous opportunity. We extend our sincere thanks to the American Chamber of Commerce Ghana for believing in us and entrusting us with the organization of the maiden U.S-Ghana Business Expo.”
The 2023 U.S-Ghana Business Expo, meticulously executed by Agrihouse Foundation, provided a platform for fostering bilateral trade collaborations and economic growth between the United States and Ghana.
The Expo had in attendance over 800 participants, including key industry stakeholders, entrepreneurs, government officials, business leaders from both nations, and the general public.
The expo also had in attendance, trade delegation from the U.S. Department of Commerce led Global Diversity Export Initiative (GDEI) trade delegation that included 19 companies and six trade associations, including the National Black Chamber of Commerce, the National Business League, U.S. Black Chambers Inc., Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, the National Centre for American Indian Enterprise Development, and the Organization for Women in International Trade.
The GDEI delegation represents diverse communities and industries across the United States with a focus on information and communications technology, consumer goods, and the automotive sectors.
A significant highlight of the Expo was the trade pavilion, which featured more than 40 companies. It showcased the products and services of visiting U.S. companies and trade associations, AmCham Ghana member companies, and local companies from various industries. It also provided an opportunity for participants at the event to engage in networking activities and establish strategic relationships.
The Expo yielded tangible outcomes, facilitating strategic partnerships, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and laying the foundation for sustained economic development.
Agrihouse Foundation remains committed to its mission of fostering sustainable development through initiatives that bring nations together for mutual prosperity.
by Bismark | Nov 15, 2023 | News, Press Release
Yara Ghana Limited has once again demonstrated its commitment to the agricultural sector by donating an amount of twenty thousand Ghana cedis (GHS 20,000.00) to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture in support of the upcoming 39th National Farmers’ Day Celebrations.
The donation, presented by Yara Ghana’s Country Manager, Ms. Theresa Randolph, is part of the company’s long-standing tradition of contributing to the annual event, scheduled to take place on Friday, December 1, 2023, under the theme ‘Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience,’ reflecting the ongoing efforts to enhance agricultural practices in the country.
In her statement during the donation presentation, Ms. Theresa Randolph emphasized Yara Ghana’s dedication to supporting farmers and fortifying the agricultural sector in Ghana. She highlighted the company’s consistent contributions to the National Farmers’ Day Celebrations, both in cash and kind, as part of their broader initiatives to uplift the farming community.
“As a farmer-centric company with the farmers at the core of our business, Yara Ghana always recognizes the important role they play in the country’s development, and any intervention that seeks to reward farmers deserves our support,” said Ms. Randolph.
In addition to the financial donation for the National Farmers Day Celebrations, Yara Ghana has also been actively involved in supporting farmers at various levels by donating fertilizers to farmers on a national, regional, and district level, further contributing to the growth and sustainability of agriculture in Ghana.
Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo, the Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture in charge of Crops and Chairman of the National Farmers’ Day Planning Committee, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Ministry for Yara Ghana’s consistent support to farmers over the years.
He commended the company for its continuous contributions to the celebration of the National Farmers’ Day and encouraged them to continue driving positive change in the agricultural sector through their various interventions, including extension support, crop clinics, research and development for cost-effective fertilizer protocols, and support for farmer-based organizations.
Yara Ghana’s ongoing commitment to the agricultural community reflects the collaborative efforts needed to ensure sustainable food security and resilience in Ghana. The company’s support goes beyond monetary contributions, encompassing a holistic approach to empower and uplift farmers across the nation.
ABOUT YARA GHANA
Yara Ghana, is a leading fertilizer company established in 2007, to strengthen the high quality of input supply and related services along the agricultural value chains in Ghana.
Yara Ghana’s key focus have always been on providing Ghanaian farmers with knowledge, crop nutrition solutions, and digital technologies that can help them improve their yields and quality in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. This helps farmers achieve enhanced livelihoods while contributing to local, regional, and national food production, and to ensuring Ghana’s long-term food security.
by Bismark | Nov 14, 2023 | News, Press Release
On Wednesday, November 1st, 2023, Former Nebraska Senator and Co-founder of GhaNeb LLC, Ken Schilz, as part of his seven days’ work visit to Ghana toured the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant. with the primary objective exploring collaborative opportunities in waste management, initiating a strategic effort to foster partnerships and exchange best practices between Ghana and Nebraska.
the initiative Organized by Agrihouse Foundation and GhaNeb LLC, aimed at facilitating the exchange of expertise and establishing enduring partnerships between the two nations, with a particular emphasis on advancing sustainable waste management solutions.
During his visit, Mr. Schilz engaged in insightful discussions with the management team of the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant, led by Mr. Michael Padi Tuwor, the Managing Director.
Highlighting the significance of cross-border cooperation in environmental sustainability, the former Senator emphasized the shared responsibility in fostering globally eco-friendly practices.
“Our primary objective is to establish a robust partnership between Ghana and Nebraska in sustainable waste management,” articulated Mr. Schilz, underscoring the necessity for shared learning and joint efforts to realize common environmental conservation goals.
Accompanied by Mr. Michael Padi Tuwor, the Managing Director for Accra Compost and Recycling Plant and Team, the former Senator thoroughly examined the intricacies of the facility, meticulously studying the recycling and compost production processes.
Mr. Micheal Padi Tuwor elaborated on the plant’s innovative methods for converting organic waste into high-quality compost, making substantial contributions to Ghana’s environmental conservation efforts.
“The Accra Compost and Recycling Plant is dedicated to sustainable waste management practices. Our expertise in transforming organic waste into premium compost significantly contributes to environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture in Ghana,so partnerships between ghana and nebraska in waste management will be a step in the right direction .” stated the managing director, emphasizing the plant’s commitment to promoting environmentally friendly practices.
The meeting was followed by a comprehensive tour of the plant with provided invaluable insights into effective and sustainable waste management practices, symbolizing the potential for mutual learning and progress between Ghana and Nebraska.
the Fmr. Senator Schilz’s exploration at the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant played a pivotal role in igniting the potential for collaborations between Ghana and Nebraska. By delving into the operational intricacies of the facility, he gained valuable insights into the efficient recycling and compost production processes.
The visit facilitated an in-depth understanding of the plant’s methods for converting organic waste into high-quality compost, which significantly contributes to environmental conservation efforts in Ghana.
Pictures from the Tour of the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant
