The Deputy Director of the Greater Accra Agricultural Directorate, Mrs. Rogatta Antwi-Baadu, has commended Agrihouse Foundation for its dedication to enhancing the Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions since assuming leadership from the USAID Advance Project in 2018.
Speaking at the launch of the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Event, Mrs. Antwi-Baadu highlighted the foundation’s pivotal role in fostering collaboration among key agricultural stakeholders, including farmers, agribusiness professionals, input suppliers, processors, and buyers.
“Agrihouse Foundation has created an invaluable space for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and innovation, all of which are essential to addressing the challenges facing our agricultural sector,” she remarked.
Agrihouse Foundation, through the Pre-Harvest Conference, continues to be an essential partner in driving these changes. The event has become a key platform for showcasing technological advancements, modern farming practices, and new business opportunities. By focusing on “Connecting the Unconnected,” Agrihouse ensures that even the smallest farmers in the most remote areas have access to resources and opportunities to be part of this agricultural transformation.
This year’s theme, “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches,” encapsulates the transformative direction of the agricultural industry.
The future of agriculture depends on how effectively new technologies and innovations are integrated into traditional systems. From precision farming to digital platforms that directly connect farmers with markets, the sector is undergoing a significant transformation in how food is produced and distributed.
Agrihouse Foundation has been at the forefront of this movement, actively seeking ways to bridge the gap for smallholder farmers, rural agribusinesses, and underserved communities.
Through the Pre-Harvest platform, they have successfully connected these key players to vital information, tools, and resources that empower them to thrive.
Mrs. Antwi-Baadu also emphasized the Government of Ghana’s commitment to transforming the agricultural landscape through initiatives like the Phase Two of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program. This phase not only focuses on enhancing productivity but also on improving market access and adding value to agricultural produce, resonating strongly with the event’s focus on innovation and technology.
“Phase Two of PFJ embodies the innovative approaches we are celebrating today,” she said, noting how it connects smallholder farmers to value chains, expands access to technology, improves market infrastructure, and creates an enabling environment for agribusiness growth. With initiatives like these, Ghana is positioning itself not only to feed its own population but also to play a significant role in global food security.
Nebraska State Governor, Jim Pillen has praised the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) as a pacesetter in strengthening agricultural infrastructure, facilitating agribusiness trade, knowledge sharing, capacity building and development of activities, aimed at unlocking new opportunities and push the agribusiness sectors in both Ghana and Nebraska towards a flourishing agricultural future.
Speaking at a Meet-and-Greet session with the 30-member Ghanaian delegation that recently participated in the just-ended Husker Harvest Days experience and trade and investment event, Governor Pillen placed high importance on Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) success in facilitating trade opportunities and fostering collaboration that greatly place value between the two regions.
Governor Jim Pillen equally applauded the chamber for acting as a key platform for American businesses seeking to engage with Africa, especially Ghana and for helping Ghanaian companies navigate the Nebraska agricultural market.
“I am impressed about this growing trade and business linkages between our two regions and we are opened to work with you to identify business gaps and what we can collectively do for our mutual business growth”.
In his key remarks, Governor Jim Pillen also highlighted some major areas, he expect collaboration between Ghana and Nebraska.
He spoke on how Nebraska’s bio economy and sustainable practices could greatly benefit Ghana’s agriculture, stating that, “what we do here in Nebraska can be a game-changer for Ghana’s agriculture.”
The Governor also emphasized on how Ghana can tap in into the seven generations of innovation that have shaped the state of Nebraska agricultural landscape, exemplified by Husker Harvest Days and other agricultural programs as a key to achieving long-term success.
The major highlight of the Meet-and-Greet event was the symbolic presentation of a Governor’s Coin to the Ghanaian delegation led by Hon Deputy Minister, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, signifying the growing bond between Ghana and Nebraska.
“I see the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) as a valuable gate path for companies looking to enter the U.S. agricultural market” and called for attention to Nebraska’s vast agricultural potential, the richness of opportunities and readiness to deepen its partnerships with Ghana.
Honorable Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, also extended his gratitude to Governor Jim Pillen for his support of the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber (GNEBCham) and commended him for his dedication to strengthening the chamber’s vision.
The Honorable Deputy Minister also commended Nebraska’s openness for collaboration, which he said is a major factor in advancing trade relations and unlocking mutual opportunities for agribusiness growth between the two regions.
The 30-member Ghanaian business delegation, who are all members of the Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations Chamber, were in Nebraska to participate in the Husker Harvest Days and a Trade and Investment Activity.
As part of their 5-days business trip, the delegation were matched with key Nebraskan agricultural companies, including Bayer, Nebraska Star Beef, chief Industries, and Nebraska state universities, championing agriculture.
Some other delegates also were matched with Beef and Poultry producing companies, Grain producers, irrigation, commercial farm experts, machinery and equipment, financial institutions and business consultants, among others.
The overall goal is to ensure the delegation, are strategically linked to ensure measurable business outcomes, by leveraging on Nebraska’s agricultural strengths and its advanced practices in bio-economy, innovative and technological approaches.
The Ghana-Nebraska Agribusiness Growth and Trade Relations (GNEBCham) is an International representative arm of selected Nebraska Senators, Farmers, Agribusinesses and subsidiaries voluntarily working together with their Ghanaian partners to create an environment where Agribusiness and Trade can thrive between Ghanaians and Nebraskans and beyond.
The Chamber is a non-for-profit organization, established in 2023, as a joint venture between Ghana and Nebraska public and private sector officials to strengthen, encourage, promote, foster and facilitate agribusiness trade relations between Ghana and Nebraska.
The Chamber aims to create strong linkages, foster trade relations and promote sustainable growth by connecting businesses in Ghana and Nebraska, serving as a dynamic hub for trade exchange and development opportunities.The chamber is committed to creating relationships that strengthen the Agricultural sector and we do this through Exchange programs, webinars, workshops, sector-focused Capacity building sessions, Trade fairs, matchmakings and membership community project activities, among others.
Agrihouse Foundation will on Tuesday 29th October 2024 to 30th October 2024, host the 14th Annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibition.
The event Set to take place at the Alhaji Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale, under the theme “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches,” will focus on strengthening market linkages, promoting technological innovations, and enhancing productivity in the agricultural sector.
Speaking at the launch, The Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa reflected on the remarkable growth of the Annual event, which was initiated under the first phase of USAID’s ADVANCE project in 2011.
Over the past 13 years, the event has evolved into a major fixture on Ghana’s agricultural calendar, fostering networking and business relationships across the agribusiness value chain.
“Since Agrihouse Foundation took over the organization of the interventional initiative in 2018, we have seen incredible growth,” Ms. Akosa noted. “Today, the event brings together thousands of value chain actors, including farmers, buyers, equipment dealers, input suppliers, financial institutions, and policymakers, all working together to build a resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.”
She further highlighted that over 100,000 value chain actors and stakeholders have participated in the Pre-Harvest event since its inception, representing various sectors such as agribusinesses, ICT, aggregators, transporters, and civil society organizations.
Theme for the 14th Edition: “Connecting the Unconnected – Feeding the Future through Innovative and Technological Approaches”
Ms. Akosa outlined the theme for this year’s event, which emphasizes the need for improved market linkages and the adoption of innovative technologies to increase productivity and ensure food security.
“Our focus this year is on bridging gaps in the agricultural value chain,” Ms. Akosa explained. “We aim to work with our partners to identify areas where connections are lacking and establish a path forward that strengthens business relationships between value chain actors.”
She stressed the importance of innovation in addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, particularly in the context of climate change, market volatility, and food insecurity. “Innovation is at the heart of agricultural growth,” she said. “By incorporating technological tools like precision farming, digital platforms, and modern mechanization, we can help farmers improve productivity and build resilience.”
The 14th Annual Pre-Harvest event will feature a wide range of activities, including the Farmer-to-Farmer Apprenticeship, Farmer-to-Buyer Matchmaking, Commodity Breakout Sessions, Exhibitions, and Field Demonstrations. The event will also provide a platform for value chain actors to engage in practical sessions and demonstrations, which will educate farmers on how to leverage innovative products and services to improve farm business speed and expansion.
“With over 100 exhibitors expected to participate, this year’s event will bring together the entire agribusiness ecosystem,” Ms. Akosa stated. “From farmers and farmer groups to input dealers, financial institutions, tractor and machinery companies, government agencies, and processors – we will have a full representation of the agricultural value chain.”
She added that the field demonstrations, which will take place at Agrihouse Foundation’s Demonstration Center in Kudula, will offer participants hands-on exposure to new farming technologies and practices.
Ms. Akosa expressed optimism about the outcomes of this year’s 14th annual Pre-Harvest event, emphasizing its potential to strengthen agricultural networks, foster new business relationships, and increase the adoption of technological innovations across the sector.
“Throughout the two days event, we will facilitate important discussions between farmers and commodity buyers, allowing them to establish indicative purchase and supply terms for the upcoming harvest season,” she said. “We also aim to create opportunities for smallholder farmers to connect with larger market players, enabling them to sell their produce at competitive prices.”
Moreover, the event will place a strong emphasis on capacity building, equipping farmers with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in modern agriculture. “Participants will benefit from training in financial literacy, agribusiness management, and value chain development, which are critical to their success,” Ms. Akosa added.
In concluding she, reiterated Agrihouse Foundation’s commitment to advancing the agricultural sector through collaboration and innovation. “We believe that by connecting the unconnected and harnessing the power of technology, we can feed the future and create a more sustainable agricultural ecosystem for Ghana and beyond,” she said.
The 14th annual pre-harvest agribusiness conference and exhibitions is supported Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC), GIZ EUGAP, Yara Ghana, Kanu Equipment, Horticulture Business Platform, ADB, GML Green Energy, and Farm Radio.
For more information, please contact Blessed: 0551623862 or Alberta: 0244623012, click on the link below to sign up as an Exhibitor https://forms.gle/yRdaqDgE7VNRG3VX8 .
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation has been honored with the 2024 Agrifood Future Prize Award at the Agrifood Future event in Salerno, Italy.
Agrifood Future Prize recipient, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa was recognized for her exceptional contributions to strengthening Agri-food systems across Africa, particularly in Ghana.
This premier event, organized by Unioncamere and the Chamber of Commerce of Salerno, with the patronage of European parliament, Italian ministries of Agriculture Food Sovereignty and Forestry, Environment and Energy Security, Google and Made in Italy, redefines Italy’s AgriFood sector with practical, reform-oriented discussions, expanding the global conversation on Agri-food systems.
In presenting this prestigious award, Directed by Professor Alex Giordano, President Andrea Prete praised Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa for her passion and determination.
President Andrea Prete said, “Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa has a clear vision for the future of food. We appreciate her attention to young people and women. For this reason, we can imagine a collaboration also in Africa, with Agrifood Future and between the Chamber of Commerce of Salerno, European Parliament, Italian Ministries and Agrihouse Foundation.”
President Andrea Prete and Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa
Upon receiving the Agrifood Future Prize, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa emphasized, “Food unites the world! Where there is food, there is peace; where there is peace, there is development; and where there is development, there is sustainability.”
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa continued, “I am deeply encouraged by all the wonderful people here. Thank you for welcoming me so warmly and making me feel at home. I am incredibly grateful.
I also want to extend my deepest appreciation to my entire Agrihouse Foundation team for their outstanding contributions and support.
This recognition is also dedicated every woman committed to the act of service to humanity, through Agriculture.
It is also to all women who are continuously demonstrating the acts of courage, passion, compassion, determination, boldness and consistency to advancing the AgriFood systems. I believe we share a common bond with this Prize, Alberta added.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa further reflected, “The subject of food is extremely important, considering that it is the first work God gave to man, to work in the Garden of Eden.
Now, you and I have one major assignment to protect the future of food. “But the future is already here, the future is now, the future is me and the future is you. “1.2 billion of the world’s present population are between the ages of 15-24 years; of these, 600 million are rural youth, whose main challenge is unemployment.
Additionally, one in five people globally depends on animal agriculture for their livelihoods. Therefore, our actions and inactions will highly influence our present food systems and generations ahead.
“In my country Ghana alone, agriculture employs 39.49% of our population, with 70% being smallholder farmers living in rural communities.
This is why I want us all to take key innovative and sustainable actions to secure and lay the needed foundations for the Food and Agricultural bodies as a whole.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa expressed her confidence that in 2025, Agrihouse Foundation would strengthen its working relationship with, President Andrea Prete, Professor Alex, Unioncamere and the Rural Hack Team to ensure a global community is created by having a greater representation of Ghanaians, Africans and the Caribbean to join the conversations in advancing innovative Agri-food practices.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa also applauded the high youth representation at the event, stating, “It brings my spirit alive and gives me so much hope for the future of our food systems.” The youth in my country also keep demonstrating through their brilliant innovations and approaches in technology, value addition, farming techniques and sustainable solutions they keep developing within the sector, that they can conquer the world and stand alongside their peers globally, to find common solutions to secure our future food.
She noted, “The youth and women possess great ideas and dreams, but unfortunately, many of us lack opportunities. This Prize, I know, will inspire many of our youth to stay focused and keep pushing forward. I am hoping some of them would be able to join us here in 2025 and be part of the Agrifood Future Youth Summer and some of the other sessions.
In conclusion, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa proposed the establishment of an Academy to train sustainable farmers and leaders, stating, “Let us adopt a resolution to create an Academy to train and develop a youth movement of sustainable farmers. Let us work together to connect the unconnected.
Salerno is set to become the center of Agrifood innovation and sustainability from September 8 to 10, 2024 as it hosts the highly anticipated 2nd AgriFood Future 2024.
This premier event, organized by Unioncamere and the Chamber of Commerce of Salerno, with the patronage of European parliament, Italian ministries of Agriculture Food Sovereignty and Forestry; Environment and Energy Security; Businesses and Made in Italy, is set to redefine Italy’s AgriFood sector with practical results-oriented speeches and workshops to contribute in reforming and expanding the global discussion on Agrifood systems.
The AgriFood Future will offer a unique opportunity to leverage its rich agricultural heritage, integrating modern technologies to enhance productivity, reduce environmental impact and strengthen its position as a global leader in sustainable food systems.
Leading this year’s transformative AgriFood Future initiative, Alex Giordano, Scientific Director with visionary leadership is set to drive AgriFood Future 2024 into a new era of innovation and sustainability. This year’s theme, “Building a Business in the Food System 5.0,” reflects Giordano’s commitment to merging cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices to advance the AgriFood industry.
Under Giordano’s guidance, AgriFood Future 2024 will highlight groundbreaking business models and strategies designed to address critical issues such as food waste reduction, supply chain resilience and sustainable farming.
Andrea Prete, President of Unioncamere and Chamber of Commerce of Salerno, leads this year’s event on the theme “Building a Sustainable Business in the Food System with AI.” His leadership is key to highlighting the development of a sustainable and innovative business approach within the food industry.
Andrea Prete is an entrepreneur in the industrial automation sector. Today at the helm of Unioncamere he aims to support the transformation in the Italian agri-food sector, focusing on sustainability and digital transformation. He advocates for practices that reduce the environmental impact of agri-food operations, while promoting the adoption of new technologies to improve efficiency and productivity. His efforts have helped streamline operations and increase resource use, ensuring the sector remains competitive in Europe, Italy, Africa and the Caribbean.
In a statement, the President of Unioncamere and promoter of AgriFood Future, Mr. Andrea Prete, expressed his excitement about having Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa as a keynote speaker for the event.
Under Ms. Akosa’s leadership, Agrihouse Foundation has been instrumental in executing initiatives designed to unlock the potential of youth, women and men for innovation in the agricultural sector.
These initiatives include the Gathering of the Royals, Agricultural Student Career Guidance and Mentorship Dialogues Bootcamps, Monthly Agriwoman Marketplaces, Executive Beginner Agribusiness Masterclasses, Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Forums, and the Gold in the Soil Awards.
Her expertise in leveraging technology and fostering collaboration for the sector aligns perfectly with the themes of our conference,” he added
Her participation is a testament to her exceptional leadership and pioneering contributions to the agri-food sector.” Mr. Prete further acknowledged.
“We look forward to her keynote address and the rich discussions that will follow as we work together to build a more sustainable and inclusive AgriFood Future”.
As Salerno prepares to host this landmark event, AgriFood Future 2024 is promise to be a transformative event, bringing together leading voices and decision-makers to shape the future of the Agri-food sector in the Caribbean and Africa as well.
Agrihouse Foundation, in collaboration with the 1 Household 1 Garden initiative and the Monthly Executive Agribusiness Masterclass, is set to host the 4th edition of its transformative one-day training session on backyard farming.
Scheduled for Friday, September 27, 2024, at the Agrihouse Training Centre in Dzorwulu, this event aims to promote sustainable agriculture and empower individuals with essential skills in backyard farming, contributing to improved agri-food systems in Ghana.
Under the theme “Enhancing Nutrition, Ensuring Household Food Security,” the 1 Household 1 Garden Masterclass has, for the past three months, equipped participants with a comprehensive understanding of backyard farming, enhancing nutrition, and boosting household incomes.
By enabling individuals to grow their own fresh produce, this initiative reduces dependence on store-bought goods and ensures access to nutritious food options. Additionally, it offers a pathway to economic empowerment, as surplus produce can be sold or traded within communities, generating additional income for households.
Recognizing the critical importance of practical agricultural skills, the training will cover a wide range of topics, including nursery establishment, seed nursing, transplanting, selecting planting mediums, mulching, water management, and irrigation techniques.
Speaking ahead of the event, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, emphasized the significance of this Masterclass in empowering communities and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
“The One Household One Garden Maserclass on backyard farming initiative has proven to be a powerful tool in transforming how individuals view and engage in agriculture. By equipping people with the skills and resources to start their own backyard farms, we are not only improving food security but also creating opportunities for economic empowerment within our communities.
This 4th edition is a milestone for us, and we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on participants to help them kickstart their backyard farming journeys, participants will receive a starter pack filled with essential resources, including seedlings, compost or manure, organic neem insecticide, and seed trays.
The Executive Agribusiness Masterclass promises a rewarding experience for all attendees, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in their backyard farming endeavors.
Prospective participants are encouraged to secure their spots early, with a registration fee of 300 Ghana cedis. For more information and registration, interested individuals can contact Joseph at 0570246813 or Deborah at 0541555606.
Join us on Friday, September 27, 2024, at the Agrihouse Training Centre in Dzorwulu as we lead the evolution of agriculture and empower communities through the art of backyard farming!
