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
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.
Recognizing agriculture as a vital lifeline that sustains populations, economies, and National development, Reuben Binpori, the Inclusive Business Models Expert for the European Union Ghana Agricultural Programme (EUGAP) and the Market-Oriented Agricultural Program in North West Ghana (MOAP NW), passionately urged the agricultural sector to redouble its efforts in constructing a more sustainable and resilient agricultural framework.
Speaking at the 13th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition’s closing ceremony held at the Agrihouse Agri-Village Learning, Training, Innovation, and Demonstration site in Kudula, Northern Region, Mr. Reuben Binpori emphasized the urgent need for renewed purpose and commitment in cultivating a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector. This imperative is especially pressing in the face of escalating concerns regarding climate change and food security. Adopting sustainable agricultural systems is crucial.
Mr. Binpori highlighted significant advancements made by EUGAP, noting that over 70,000 farmers, agro-input dealers, and agro-processors have undergone capacity-building initiatives. These efforts have heightened the necessity for market systems, certifications, and the promotion of integrated business models to fortify the sector.
“As development partners in Ghana’s agricultural sector, our focus lies in creating robust, competitive, and sustainable platforms that interconnect value chains. Through these platforms, our aim is to achieve higher quality and quantity of farm produce reaching markets, ensuring collective food security, and providing improved access to capital for smallholder farmers and other value chain actors,” expressed Binpori.
“Sustainable agriculture is not a choice but a necessity. We must wholeheartedly embrace innovative solutions, from precision farming techniques to organic farming methods, to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” he added
He also highlighted that the European Union Ghana Agricultural Programme continues to support their partners with resources and practical knowledge, empowering them to promote and adopt intelligent climate and good agricultural practices. Additionally, numerous initiatives introduced by EUGAP through the MOAP-NW and REACH component project continue to have a significant impact on the agricultural sector.
Throughout the 3-day 13th annual pre-harvest conference and exhibition, a diverse array of experts shared insights encompassing sustainable business and farming practices, climate-sensitive agricultural production, and technological advancements. He used the opportunity to call for more collaborations among farmers, researchers, policymakers, and industry players to drive meaningful change within the agricultural industry.
Expressing deep gratitude, he commended Agrihouse Foundation for their enriching contributions in improving the agricultural sector through ,the annual pre-harvest agribusiness conference and exhibition .
He also encouraged farmers and actors in the agricultural value chain to embrace a renewed sense of purpose and commitment, marking a vital step towards establishing a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
Alhaji Alhassan Issahaku, the Chief Director of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council, speaking on behalf of the Northern Regional Minister Hon. Shani Alhassan Saibu, at the 13th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conferences and Exhibition organized by Agrihouse Foundation in Kudula, Tamale. conveyed an emphatic call to the youth to take an active role in agribusiness, underscoring the need for robust youth engagement in agriculture, citing it as a pivotal cornerstone of the economy and a primary source of livelihood for a significant proportion of the population.
Addressing participants, at the 13th annual pre-harvest agribusiness conference, held under the theme: connecting the unconnected the farmer, the input dealer and the processor, Alhaji Alhassan issahaku elucidated on the compelling reasons behind the advocacy for greater youth participation in agribusiness. Central to his address was the economic contribution that the young generation could offer.
He emphasized how the active involvement of the youth in agriculture could markedly enhance regional economic development. Youth engagement, he emphasized, could bolster employment opportunities, foster entrepreneurship, and augment income, thereby advancing the economic landscape of the region. Upholding Food Security and Technological Innovation The Chief Director of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council emphasized the vital role of the younger generation in maintaining consistent food production. He underscored that their active participation could bring innovative farming practices into effect, meeting the burgeoning demands of an ever-growing population. Further, he pointed out the potential for technological innovation, highlighting that the tech-savvy skills of the youth could revolutionize traditional farming methods, resulting in enhanced productivity and efficiency in the agricultural sector.
Stressing that the youthful demographic brings fresh outlooks and environmental awareness, integral in promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices. The sustainability of farming, he suggested, rests on the shoulders of the younger generation who are well-equipped to adopt practices that foster long-term environmental balance. He also deliberated on the significance of youth engagement in addressing rural development. By encouraging the youth to take part in agriculture, rural areas can be revitalized, promoting economic opportunities and curbing mass migration to urban centres.
Yara Ghana ,has once again demonstrated substantial progress in advocating for the efficient and effective use of fertilizers by spearheading farmer training and practical demonstrations at the 13th annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 13th annual Pre -Harvest Agri-Business Conference and Exhibitions hosted by Agrihouse Foundation at the Agrihouse Agri-Village Learning Training Innovation and Demonstration site in Kudula on Tuesday, October 26th, 2023, Ms. Theresa Randolph, the Country Director for Yara Ghana, underscored the Yara Ghana’s dedication to empowering farmers with the knowledge and tools essential for optimal fertilizer utilization.
Ms. Randolph highlighted the crucial role of adequate training and practical demonstrations in securing the best outcomes for farmers.
“Yara is committed to supporting Ghanaian farmers through vital training and practical demonstrations on the effective application of fertilizers. We firmly believe that equipping farmers with the right knowledge is pivotal in improving agricultural practices and increasing crop yields,” stated Ms. Randolph.
The training and demonstration sessions orchestrated by Yara Ghana at the 13th annual pre-harvest agribusiness conference and exhibitions aimed at providing farmers with practical skills and knowledge to optimize fertilizer usage, promoting cost-effectiveness and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.
Yara’s proactive approach in farmer education and empowerment signifies a broader commitment to fostering a more knowledgeable and robust agricultural community, promising a positive impact on Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
The event witnessed the active participation of numerous farmers, agricultural experts, and stakeholders engaging in interactive sessions, workshops, and live demonstrations aimed at illustrating best practices in fertilizer application.
She also added that ,Yara has continually supported food production and farmer profitability, evident in the results from farmers adopting Yara’s crop nutrition solutions. Apart from providing quality, crop-targeted fertilizer solutions, Yara prioritizes farmer trainings and demonstrations to ensure the effective and efficient use of fertilizers for quality food production while preserving the planet, fostering a nature-positive food future.
”Yara’s commitment to the agricultural sector growth transcends farming; it encompasses the entire value chain – connecting farmers to inputs, markets, financing, and more. The company’s role in supporting programs that link the agriculture value chain has consistently yielded impactful results. The Preharvest event presents yet another opportunity to make a significant impact”.she added.
The annual Pre -Harvest Agri-Business Conference and Exhibitions serve as a platform for industry stakeholders, farmers, and experts to exchange ideas and showcase innovative agricultural practices. Yara’s proactive engagement in this event underscores their dedication to enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in Ghana.
The Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Ms. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, has urged the Government to establish more Agri-village training centers in the country, in support of local farmers nationwide.This call to action was delivered during her welcome address at the 13th Annual Pre-harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition, hosted at the Agrihouse Agri-Village Learning Innovation Training and Demonstration site in Kudula, Tamale, in the Northern Region under the theme “Connecting the Unconnected: The Farmer, The Input Dealer, and The Processor.”
The Executive Director , emphasized the pivotal role these Agri-village training centers would play in advancing farmers’ skills and knowledge, whiles connecting stakeholders within the agricultural value chain.
“The provision of at least one Agri-village training center in every region would be transformative. It will offer our farmers essential resources, training, and innovative practices, creating a hub uniting farmers, input dealers, and processors.
This initiative is a crucial step in bolstering the agricultural sector’s capabilities and creating a more interconnected and sustainable ecosystem for farming communities nationwide,” she emphasized.
She highlighted the potential and impact of dedicated agricultural hubs, unifying previously disparate elements within the agricultural community. Ms. Akosa underlined the urgent need for resources for farmers and the vital connection between Farmers ,input dealers and processors to establish a more cohesive and efficient agricultural network.
“The provision of Agri-village training centers in every region is not merely an option but a necessity,” Ms. Akosa emphasized. “It’s about creating a unified platform for farmers across the nation to benefit from shared knowledge and best practices, significantly advancing the agricultural sector.”
emphasizing the pressing need for educational support and resources, as well as stronger connections between farmers and the stakeholders in the entire agricultural value chain ,to succeed in the dynamic agricultural sector, she called on government to as a matter of urgency help provide agri-village training center in every region in the country .
The call for Agri-village training centers in every region echoes Agrihouse Foundation’s commitment to promoting innovation, knowledge sharing, and sustainable practices. Their pursuit is not merely regional but a national effort toward empowering and unifying farming communities across the country.
Speaking at the 13th annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition,hosted by Agrihouse Foundations, The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture (Crops )Hon.Yaw Frimpong Addo ,stated that the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Government is committed to fostering crucial connections ,market linkages and improvement within the agricultural value chain .
”We recognize the importance of bridging the gaps that often exist within the agricultural value chain. By connecting the farmer, the input dealer, and the processor, and every stakeholder we can create a more integrated and efficient system that benefits all stakeholders”.
According to him, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture is also taking significant steps to improve infrastructure, provide access to credit facilities, and enhance extension services. These efforts he said ,is aimed at ensuring that farmers, input dealers, and processors and every stakeholder in the agricultural value chain is equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.” We are also investing in research and development to boost crop yields, promote climate-smart agriculture, and reduce the impact of climate change on our food systems.He added .
Agrihouse Foundation’s Agri-Village Learning Training Innovation and Demonstration Site in Kudula:
Agrihouse Agri- Village Learning Training Innovation and Demonstration Site in Kudula, Tamale, is a ten-acre land acquisition by the Agrihouse Foundation in 2021, scheduled for comprehensive development over the next 3-5 years. The objective is to establish it as the Premier Agribusiness Training, Exhibitions, and Demonstration Centre.
Anticipated facilities on the site includes crop and livestock stations, a central processing center, dedicated conference and workshop halls, restroom facilities, specialized exhibition stores for agricultural companies, as well as training and recreational centers, among other essential amenities.
This strategic initiative aims to serve as a focal point for fostering innovation, education, and practical demonstrations within the agricultural domain, aimed at enhancing skills, knowledge, and sustainable practices within the farming community.
