by Linda Boateng | Jul 4, 2024 | News
Boahemaa Ruth, a 38-year-old farmer from Kwabenkrakrom Dormaa West, has been nominated for the prestigious Diamond in the Rough Award at Agrihouse Foundation’s the 6th Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards. Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, this event celebrates the resilience, innovation, and contributions of women in agriculture across Ghana.
Boahemaa’s journey into farming began two decades ago at the young age of 18. Starting with plantain and cocoa, she expanded her agricultural ventures to include a diverse range of crops such as rice, vegetables, maize, onion, pepper, tomatoes, mango, avocado, and palm trees. Today, she cultivates a total of 10 acres, dedicating 5 acres specifically to rice farming.
The path to successful rice cultivation is fraught with challenges. From the meticulous process of seed planting to protecting young seedlings from birds and pests, every step demands unwavering attention. The application of fertilizers must be precisely timed to ensure healthy growth, and climate change introduces unpredictable elements that can drastically affect yields. Adequate water supply is crucial, as rice is a water-intensive crop.
Despite these challenges, Boahemaa has consistently demonstrated resilience and innovation. She once managed to produce 20 bags of rice independently but now employs a more strategic approach under the guidance of an agricultural master and supervisor. This has allowed her to maintain productivity and manage her resources more effectively. However, issues like low local rice prices and the lack of modern machinery for efficient processing continue to pose significant obstacles, increasing labor costs and reducing overall efficiency.
Boahemaa’s ingenuity is evident in her unique solutions to these challenges. She barters her homemade palm soup in exchange for labor, ensuring she has the necessary help to manage her farm. This creative approach not only sustains her farming operations but also strengthens community bonds. Her dedication to farming and her ability to find innovative solutions exemplify the resilience needed to thrive in agriculture.
The WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards aim to address such challenges by providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support to over 8,000 women across the agricultural value chain. This year’s event, themed “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” will feature over 600 participants engaged in breakout panel discussions, training workshops, exhibitions, trade shows, speed networking, and mentorship sessions.
A highlight of the event will be the Gold in the Soil Awards, honoring exceptional women farmers and those with disabilities whose contributions have made a significant impact on the agricultural industry. The continued efforts of Agrihouse Foundation, in partnership with Global Affairs Canada and Yara, emphasize the critical role of women farmers and those with disabilities in ensuring food security, promoting sustainable practices, and driving economic growth.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 3, 2024 | News
Madam Ernestina Yeboah, a 48-year-old from Apenkro in Dormaa East, has demonstrated remarkable determination and creativity in the world of farming. Her story is a testament to the power of innovation and hard work in overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Fifteen years ago, Ernestina and her two siblings pooled their family savings to purchase 6.5 acres of land, embarking on a farming journey that would transform their lives. Today, she cultivates both maize and cocoa on this land, achieving impressive harvests. In the minor season, she harvests 6-7 bags of maize, while in the major season, she produces 13-15 bags.
Ernestina’s ingenuity shines through in her ability to diversify her income streams. Recognizing the potential of cocoa pods, she began turning them into soap, a unique innovation that provides her with additional income, especially when cocoa is out of season. This creative approach has become a vital part of her business, allowing her to support her family and provide for her children’s needs.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Ernestina is a nominee for both the “Gold in the Soil Award” and the “She Innovates Award,” recognizing her contributions to agriculture and her innovative spirit.
Farming, however, is not without its challenges. according to her Pests and insects pose a constant threat to her crops.
Despite the hurdles, Ernestina remains a fervent advocate for farming, especially for young people and women. She believes that agriculture holds the key to improving lives and boosting the economy. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to see the vast opportunities that farming can offer.
Ernestina Yeboah’s journey from investing family savings into a successful farming enterprise showcases how hard work, creativity, and innovation can lead to remarkable achievements in agriculture. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination and resourcefulness, one can turn dreams into reality and make a significant impact on their community and beyond.
This have earned her nomination at Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Gold in the Soil Awards. For the ’she innovates awards category.
with support from Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana limited , the women in food and agriculture leadership training forum and gold in the soil awards have for the past 6 years d celebrated, empowered and honour outstanding women in agriculture for their resilience, innovation, and dedication to farming practices that significantly contribute to the agricultural sector.
Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, the 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards to be held Under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” will gather stakeholders, industry leaders, women farmers, and advocates to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and advocate for a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector.
As the Agrihouse Production Team travels through the Bono Region, they will capture stories of resilience, innovation, and success among women farmers. These efforts highlight the immense talent and hard work of female farmers and farmers with disabilities, paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous agricultural sector that recognizes the vital role of women in ensuring food security.
About WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards: The Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & The Gold in the Soil Awards is an annual celebration that empowers and honors women across Ghana’s agricultural value chain, including farmers, processors, marketers, and others. These awards not only recognize excellence but also promote sustainable agricultural practices and food security, ensuring a prosperous future for farming communities nationwide.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 3, 2024 | News
Madam Akua Benipour, a 43-year-old farmer from Asuatia in the Sunyani Municipality of Ghana, has been nominated for the Diamond in the Rough Award Category of Agrihouse Foundation’s Gold in the Soil Awards at the 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards, to be held in Sunyani in the Bono Region from Tuesday 9th July to Wednesday 10th July 2024.
In just two years, Madam Akua Benipour has transformed her modest 5-acre farm into a flourishing 70-acre agricultural enterprise. Her farm boasts a diverse array of crops including maize, yam, rice, cabbage, onion, cowpea, cassava, cashew, and cocoa, showcasing her dedication to sustainable farming practices and enhancing local food production.
Alongside her crop cultivation, Madam Benipour manages a thriving poultry business with 150 chickens, 70 goats, 45 guinea fowls, and 30 pigs. Her farm employs 14 workers from the community, providing vital local employment and serving as a mentor to aspiring farmers. The profits from her farm support her family, including the education of her eight children, underlining her commitment to both agricultural excellence and community welfare.
Despite her successes, Madam Benipour faces challenges, particularly in accessing affordable fertilizers essential for optimizing farm productivity. She hopes to receive support in the form of seeds, fertilizers, a spraying machine, and Wellington boots to further enhance her farming endeavors and increase yields.
“I am passionate about farming and strive to produce the highest quality crops,” she affirms. “However, the lack of accessible fertilizers has been a hindrance. I hope for assistance in this regard to boost my farm’s productivity.”
The Gold in the Soil Awards aim to recognize and celebrate the hard work and achievements of women in agriculture. The Diamond in the Rough category specifically honors women who have shown resilience, innovation, and dedication in their farming practices, making significant contributions to the agricultural sector in the Bono Region and beyond.
Agrihouse Foundation, in collaboration with sponsors including Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana, is committed to supporting smallholder farmers like Akua Benipour. Their joint efforts aim to make a lasting impact on farming communities, promoting growth and prosperity across the nation.
As the Agrihouse Production Team travels through the Bono Region, they will capture stories of resilience, innovation, and success among women farmers. These efforts highlight the immense talent and hard work of female farmers and farmers with disabilities, paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous agricultural sector that recognizes the vital role of women in ensuring food security.
The 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards, scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, promises to be a significant event. Under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” these gatherings will bring together stakeholders, industry leaders, women farmers, and farmers with disabilities to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and advocate for a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector.
About WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards: The Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & The Gold in the Soil Awards is an annual event that celebrates and strengthens women farmers, processors, marketers, and individuals contributing to the agricultural value chain. These awards recognize outstanding efforts across various sectors including transportation, packaging, technology, and input supply. Each year, the event moves across regions in search of extraordinary women who play pivotal roles in ensuring food security and advancing the agricultural sector’s growth.
by Linda Boateng | Jul 3, 2024 | News
In Chiraa-Sunyani, in the Bono Region, 33-year-old Asantewaa Louisa serves as an extension service officer with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture in Sunyani. Her mission is clear: to empower local farmers with knowledge and support to enhance their agricultural practices. Beyond her official role, Asantewaa manages a thriving 10-acre farm, cultivating rice across 6 acres alongside maize, coconut, and various vegetables. Her farm also hosts 25 sheep and goats, and 200 poultry birds.
Asantewaa’s journey into agriculture began four years ago with a determination to uplift Ghana’s rice industry. Through innovative farming techniques and dedicated research, she has not only improved crop quality but has also bolstered local economic opportunities. By employing three casual workers and two permanent staff on her farm, Asantewaa not only increases agricultural productivity but also fosters community development through job creation.
Despite her successes, Asantewaa faces challenges familiar to many small-scale farmers: fluctuating crop prices and the high costs of essential inputs like fertilizers. These obstacles underscore the critical need for improved support systems and fair pricing policies tailored to sustain small farmers, ensuring their resilience and success in Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
Asantewaa’s dedication to agriculture has earned her nomination for the Outstanding Woman in Extension Services at Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Gold in the Soil Awards. These awards, organized by the Agrihouse Foundation with support from Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana, celebrate outstanding women in agriculture like Asantewaa. They honor individuals for their resilience, innovation, and dedication to farming practices that significantly contribute to the agricultural sector .
As the Agrihouse Production Team travels through the Bono Region, they will capture stories of resilience, innovation, and success among women farmers. These efforts highlight the immense talent and hard work of female farmers and farmers with disabilities, paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous agricultural sector that recognizes the vital role of women in ensuring food security.
Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, the 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards to be held Under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” will gather stakeholders, industry leaders, women farmers, and advocates to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and advocate for a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector.
About WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards: The Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & The Gold in the Soil Awards is an annual celebration that empowers and honors women across Ghana’s agricultural value chain, including farmers, processors, marketers, and others. These awards not only recognize excellence but also promote sustainable agricultural practices and food security, ensuring a prosperous future for farming communities nationwide.
by Linda Boateng | Jun 19, 2024 | News
Ghana’s poultry sector is at a critical juncture, with industry experts and stakeholders calling for increased support and patronage to unlock its full potential. Predominantly driven by small to medium-scale producers, the sector is essential for providing affordable protein and creating employment opportunities across the country.
Data from the Ghana National Association of Poultry Farmers (GNAPF) and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency reveal that there are 40 large-scale commercial poultry farms in Ghana, mainly located in the Ashanti, Bono, and Ahafo regions. Despite this progress, Ghana spends close to $254 million on imported poultry meat, making it the 24th largest importer of poultry meat in the world.
Despite its significance, the industry faces numerous challenges. One major issue is the high cost of poultry feed, which accounts for about 70% of production costs. The reliance on imported maize and soybean meal, coupled with the absence of local feed mills, makes feed prices prohibitively expensive for many farmers.
Inadequate infrastructure also hampers productivity and affects the quality of poultry products. Many farms lack modern facilities, including proper housing for birds, efficient waste management systems, and cold chain logistics to maintain meat quality.
Access to finance remains another significant challenge. Small and medium-scale poultry farmers often struggle to secure loans due to high-interest rates and stringent collateral requirements, preventing them from expanding their operations and investing in better technology.
Disease management is yet another pressing issue. The sector is vulnerable to outbreaks of diseases like Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease. Inadequate veterinary services and poor biosecurity measures exacerbate these problems, leading to significant losses for farmers.
To help improve Ghana’s poultry sector, Agrihouse Foundation introduced the Ghana Poultry Day initiative four years ago to promote the consumption and patronage of Ghana’s poultry sector, raise awareness about the pivotal role played by the poultry industry in areas such as employment generation, food security, and economic growth to help foster a greater appreciation for this sector among stakeholders and the public and fortify its growth and sustainability.
The Ghana Poultry Day event have for the part years also help promote the nutritional and medicinal values of Ghanaian produced poultry, highlighting its lower toxin levels, reduced fat content, and higher Vitamin D. The event also educates the public on the benefits of consuming locally bred poultry including its anticancer properties and lower cholesterol levels.
Speaking at the launch and mini stakeholder meeting of the 4th Ghana Poultry Day, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, highlighted the critical role of patronage in overcoming challenges faced by Ghana’s poultry sector. She stated, “Encouraging Ghanaians to patronize Ghana produced poultry is crucial for the industry’s growth by this we do not only supports the economy by keeping money within the country but also creates jobs and reduces the outflow of foreign exchange used for imports.”
Ms.Akosa also urged Ghanaians to start domestic poultry rearing and home gardens to enhance food security.
Looking forward to the event, Ms Akosa mentioned that the upcoming Ghana Poultry Day, scheduled for July 1, 2024, at the forecourt of the State House in Accra, will feature a dynamic program of activities including personality -advocate chef cooking competition; where MP’s, Footballers, Ambassadors, Queen mothers, media personalities, schools and women farmers will use our poultry product to prepare different recipes which will be shared to the public for free ,there will also be town hall discussions and Exhibitions.
Dr. Comfort Acheampong, Coordinator of the Ghana National Egg Campaign Secretariat and Chairperson for the Ghana Poultry Day, stressed the importance of advocacy and promotion to strengthen Ghana’s poultry industry.
She explained, “We must collectively work to overcome the challenges facing our poultry sector through strategic advocacy and promotion. Our efforts should focus on creating awareness and encouraging the consumption of locally produced poultry products. This not only supports local farmers but also ensures that our economy benefits from reduced import dependence.”
Dr. Acheampong called upon stakeholders, policymakers, and the public to rally behind initiatives like the Ghana Poultry Day to strengthen the sector and increase the consumption of locally produced poultry products. She asserted, “With concerted effort, the industry can overcome its current challenges and thrive.”
Adding to the discussion, Mr. Bright Manye, Deputy Director for the Animal Production Directorate at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, emphasized the need for collective action. He pointed out, “The high cost of feed, which constitutes about 70% of production costs, makes it difficult for local farmers to achieve profitability. Any marginal change in feed prices significantly impacts the farmers’ bottom lines.”
Manye highlighted that in 2020, domestic chicken meat production in Ghana was around 40,000 metric tons, while imported chicken meat reached 150,000 metric tons. He noted, “Farmers also struggle with the costs of day-old chicks, vaccines, utilities, and the lack of quality processing facilities.”
He went on to discuss government initiatives aimed at tackling these challenges, such as the Livestock Development Project, the National Livestock Services Project, the Ghana Poultry Project, the Rearing for Food and Jobs Programme, and the Savannah Investment Programme. He mentioned, “One of the new initiatives, the West Africa Food System Resilience Project, aims to support anchor farmers in producing about 2 million broilers. Additionally, under the Planting for Food and Jobs II program, funding has been secured to produce 6 million birds, with more support anticipated through the Harnessing Agriculture Productivity and Prosperity for the Youth (HAPPY) Project.”
Manye concluded by emphasizing the potential of the poultry industry to create jobs and stimulate economic activities. “A thriving poultry industry can create jobs, particularly for women and youth, and stimulate economic activities,” he said. “This includes input supply, production, processing, marketing, and auxiliary services like husbandry, veterinary services, transportation, and equipment maintenance.”
Finally, Mr. Jones Aruna Nelson, Director of Corporate Affairs at the Ghana Tourism Authority, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with Agrihouse Foundation.
“Our collaboration with Agrihouse Foundation for the 4th Ghana Poultry Day highlights our dedication to promoting agriculture as a key driver for enhancing Ghana’s tourism industry. This initiative marks a new era of celebration, and we are excited that the conversation on Agri-Tourism has begun with the Ghana Tourism Authority through the Ghana Poultry Day. The celebration of Ghana Poultry Day perfectly aligns with our mission to promote Ghana’s cultural heritage. Events like these attract both local and international tourists, significantly boosting our tourism sector. “He remarked
The 4th Ghana Poultry Day is organized by Agrihouse Foundation in partnership with the Ghana Tourism Authority and supported by various organizations, including the World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH), the Ghana National Egg Campaign Secretariat, the Ghana National Association of Poultry Farmers, and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. Key sponsors include Amas Farms, Labianca Company Limited, 10th September Spices, Agrogenics Ghana Limited, and Maphlix Trust Ghana Ltd, Ghana Incentive-Based Risk-Sharing System for Agricultural Lending Project and Wilmar International.
Agrihouse Foundation invites poultry farmers, agribusiness professionals, policymakers, students, stakeholders in the poultry value chain, and the general public to mark their calendars for July 1, 2024, at the Forecourt of the Statehouse and join in championing poultry excellence. The event will celebrate achievements, address challenges, and chart a course towards a thriving and sustainable poultry industry in Ghana
For more information and registration, please contact Deborah at 0541555606, Alberta at 0244623012, or click on the link to register: https://bit.ly/ghanapoultryfest2024.
by Linda Boateng | Jun 18, 2024 | News
Agrihouse Foundation, in collaboration with the Bono Regional Agricultural Directorate and Bono Regional Coordinating Council, has officially opened nominations for the sixth edition of the annual Gold in the Soil Awards. Over the past six years, this prestigious awards scheme has gained immense credibility among agricultural stakeholders and development partner organizations. It is dedicated to recognizing, empowering, celebrating, and rewarding small-scale women farmers and persons with disabilities who contribute significantly to their communities through farming and agribusiness activities.
In a press statement, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, highlighted the awards’ impact. She noted that the initiative has recognized and supported over 8000 smallholder women farmers and farmers with disabilities across various regions, including the Volta, Ashanti, Upper East, Upper West, and Eastern Regions. This year, the mission continues in the Bono Region.
“Annually, we shortlist and feature forty-five (45) women for the Gold in the Soil Awards Documentary. We select three (3) women from each of the fifteen (15) categories. It is our policy and mandate to award and support all persons with disabilities who are nominated, reaffirming our commitment to empower these individuals,” said Ms Akosa.
The awards span fifteen categories, including: Super Woman Farmer Award, Passion for Farm Award, She Innovates Award, Climate Smart Women Project Award, Outstanding Woman in Extension Services Award, Royal Agro Award, Diamond in the Rough Award, Feed to Foods Award, Change Champion Award, Development Partner Award, Lady of the Export Region Award, Star Woman Agripreneur Award, Princess Carla Award and the ultimate Gold in the Soil Award.
This year, two new categories have been introduced which is the Supportive Agri-Man: Recognizes a man who continuously supports rural women producers, women-led agribusinesses, agro-processors, and more within communities and the Agri-Input Sales Woman of the Year which seeks to Honor a young woman who has significantly impacted her community by ensuring farmers have access to essential agricultural inputs, enhancing farm activities, and transforming livelihoods.
“We believe the Gold in the Soil Award is a crucial event that highlights the vital contributions of women farmers to Ghana’s agricultural sector. By celebrating their achievements, we aim to inspire more women to pursue careers in agriculture and provide them with the necessary support to succeed,” added Madam Akosa.
The awards receive an average of five hundred (500) nominations annually. Out of these, forty-five women are shortlisted and interviewed for the Gold in the Soil Awards documentary series, produced by Agrihouse. The documentary tells the inspiring stories of these agriwomen, showcasing their journeys, successes, and the impacts of their work on their lives and communities.
The Gold in the Soil Awards will be held on the second day of the annual Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC). This year, the two-day event will take place from Tuesday, July 9, to Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Sunyani, Bono Region, under the theme: “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders.”
For more information or to submit your nominations, please visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfSgdPbKyMi8ce0nMguAk0xfOl6Zg75ntdiqIRnX7WRvUIZFA/viewform?usp=sf_link: or contact Alberta at 0244623012, Regina at 0241371179, or Annibel at 0544704684.
