The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo, has reiterated government’s dedication to supporting the poultry industry and recognizing its invaluable contributions to the agricultural sector. He expressed this commitment during the Ghana Poultry Day and 3rd Ghana Chicken Festival.
The event, organized by the Agrihouse Foundation and held at the forecourt of the State House on July 1st, 2023, provided a platform to celebrate the poultry industry and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo, in his address, highlighted the pivotal role played by poultry farmers in driving agricultural development and stimulating economic growth in Ghana. He commended their dedication and unwavering efforts, underscoring their significant contributions to meeting the nation’s food demands and creating employment opportunities.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing the necessary support and resources to ensure the success and growth of poultry farmers. He emphasized the importance of accessible and affordable inputs, improved production techniques, and market access for poultry products. Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo stressed the need for continuous training and capacity-building programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of poultry farmers, empowering them to adopt best practices and innovative approaches.
Highlighting the essential role of collaboration, Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo acknowledged that the poultry industry’s success relies on the joint efforts of the government, private sector, and farmers. He asserted,
“The future of Ghana’s poultry industry depends on our ability to work together. Collaboration between the government, private sector, and farmers is the foundation for achieving sustainable growth and prosperity. We recognize the immense potential of the poultry industry and are dedicated to creating an enabling environment for its growth.”
The Deputy Minister further emphasized the importance of continuous capacity building and knowledge-sharing programs to empower poultry farmers. He announced the government’s plans to facilitate training initiatives, equipping farmers with the necessary skills and tools to adopt modern techniques, enhance productivity, and seize emerging market opportunities.
Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyapong, Presidential hopeful for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has emphasized the need for enhanced government backing, attention, and support for Ghana’s poultry sector .
He made these remarks during the Ghana Poultry Day and 3rd Ghana Chicken Festival, organized by the Agrihouse Foundation at the forecourt of the State House.
The presidential candidate hopeful , highlighted the significance of promoting the consumption of local poultry products, emphasizing their crucial role in strengthening the nation’s economy and creating sustainable job opportunities for Ghanaians. He encouraged citizens to prioritize the consumption of locally-produced poultry products.
Recognizing the need to foster sustainable growth and prosperity, he has called for strategic investments, policy reforms, and collaborative efforts to propel the poultry industry to new heights.
He also called upon the youth to explore the vast potential of the agricultural sector. adding that the entire agricultural value chain has a promising avenue for job creation, enabling the younger generation to actively contribute to the country’s economic growth and food security. By embracing agriculture, the youth can secure their own future while simultaneously benefiting the nation as a whole.
As part of his advocacy for the agricultural sector, he proposed the designation of July 1st as Ghana Poultry Day, a movement spearheaded by the Agrihouse Foundation. This initiative aims to honour the significant contributions of poultry sector and raise awareness about the vital role of the poultry industry in Ghana’s development. Adding that, commemoration of Ghana Poultry Day holds the potential to inspire greater interest in the poultry industry and attract increased investments, benefiting the entire value chain.
Agrihouse foundation,is set to host the third edition of the Ghana Chicken Festival/ Ghana Poultry Day, at the forecourt of the State House on Saturday, July 1, 2023.
The festival aims to promote the rich heritage of Ghana’s poultry sector and the culinary talents of influential personalities in an exciting cooking competition.
The festival not only celebrates the vibrant poultry industry of Ghana but also serves as a platform to educate and inspire people about the importance of local poultry farming and the incredible flavours it offers.
This year’s festival will feature a line-up of renowned figures who are esteemed in their respective fields as politicians, media personalities, musicians, and Chief Executive Officers among others.
Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa said, the participation of MPs,Media Personalities ,Musicians and CEOs emphasizes their pivotal role in promoting Ghana’s poultry industry. She said that their involvement would bridge the gap between policymakers and industry leaders, fostering collaboration and a shared commitment to sustainable growth.
This year’s personality chefs include Hon. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Hon. Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, Hon. Zenator Agyeman-Rawlings, Hon. Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, Mr. Captain Smart, and Empress Gifty, among other.
Hon. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, a presidential hopeful for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), will delight the audience with his culinary finesse.His participation in the cooking competition demonstrates the importance of bridging politics and culinary arts, fostering a connection with constituents through shared experiences and the joy of delicious food. Hon. Agyepong’s dish will serve as a testament to the richness and diversity of Ghanaian flavours, inviting all to appreciate the country’s culinary heritage.
Hon. Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, the respected Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, will highlight the significance of supporting local farmers and sustainable food practices.
Through his culinary creation, he aims to promote the Ghanaian poultry industry and raise awareness about the benefits of consuming locally sourced chicken. Hon. Appiah-Kubi’s dish will embody the essence of Ghanaian agriculture, highlighting the delicious and nutritious possibilities that Ghanaian chicken offers.
Hon. Zenator Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey-Korley, is known for her dedication to healthy living and balanced diets.
Her participation in the cooking competition serves as an opportunity to promote the importance of incorporating locally sourced ingredients into everyday cooking,By displaying the flavours of Ghanaian chicken and combining them with fresh herbs and organic vegetables, Hon. Agyeman-Rawlings will inspire festival attendees to embrace nutritious and delicious meals.
Captain Smart, the charismatic Executive Producer of Onua Maakye on Onua TV, brings his vibrant personality to the kitchen as he competes in the cooking competition.
His participation highlights the universal appeal of culinary arts and the power of food to unite people. Captain Smart’s dish will fuse traditional Ghanaian flavours with innovative techniques, exemplifying the culinary innovation that can arise when different perspectives and experiences converge.
As participants prepare to display their culinary skills, a panel of esteemed judges including gospel musician Piesie Esther, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie,Member of parliament for ketu south, Nii Amartei, Lead Dietitian, Nimart Nutrition, Chef Ralph, Dainess Chef School will evaluate their dishes based on creativity, presentation, and taste.
This exciting competition promises to be a platform for the exchange of culinary knowledge and the celebration of Ghanaian poultry excellence.
The Ghana Chicken Festival on Ghana Poultry Day is not only a culinary spectacle but also an educational experience,t hrough cooking demonstrations, workshops, and informative exhibits, attendees will learn about the importance of supporting local poultry farmers, sustainable food practices, and the economic impact of the Ghanaian poultry industry.
Join us at the Ghana Chicken Festival, where Hon. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Hon. Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, Hon. Zenator Agyeman-Rawlings, Hon. Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, Captain Smart, Empress Gifty, Piesie Esther, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Nii Amartei, Chef Ralph, and other notable personalities will ignite a culinary revolution, tantalize taste buds, and celebrate the flavors and traditions of Ghanaian poultry.
The Communications Officer for RDF Ghana LBG, Seli Abena Azanku have underscored the vital importance of extending technical and financial assistance to marginalized groups, particularly women farmers , youth, and individuals with disabilities, to enable their success in agriculture.
Seli Azanku’s remarks were delivered during the 5th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and the Gold in the Soil Awards, hosted by the Agrihouse Foundation on the 26th to 27th July at the Bedtime Hotel in Koforidua, Eastern Region.
Under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women’s Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” The forum provided an essential platform for honoring the exceptional contributions of women in agriculture while exploring strategies to further empower their growth and influence.
“RDF Ghana LBG is fully committed to providing access to funds and capacity-building services for women farmers, agribusinesses, and all stakeholders involved in the agricultural value chain. Our specific focus on women farmers and those with disabilities is rooted in their pivotal roles within Ghana’s agricultural landscape. RDF Ghana LBG’s funding seamlessly aligns with initiatives such as WOFAGRIC and the Gold in The Soil Awards,” she emphasized.
The communications officer also highlighted the urgent need to engage with the younger generation, imparting invaluable advice that resonates deeply with their aspirations. She passionately urged the youth to wholeheartedly embrace the realm of agriculture, recognizing it as not merely a profession but a profoundly fulfilling vocation.
RDF Ghana LBG has for over the years shown a continued commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of women farmers by sponsoring Agrihouse Foundation’s Annual Regional Rotational Intervention ,The Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards which seeks to recognize, honour and celebrate women farmers and farmers with disability.
The steadfast commitment of RDF Ghana LBG to equip women and other participants in the agricultural sector with essential resources and skills demonstrates their unwavering dedication to nurturing a flourishing farming community. By empowering farmers, RDF Ghana LBG envisions a positive ripple effect that contributes significantly to the overall prosperity and progress of the nation.
A moment of celebration and recognition unfolded at the 5th Women in Food and Agriculture Training Forum and gold in the soil awards as Margaret Agyei, a 38-year-old female farmer from Akim Achiase, stood proudly as the recipient of the coveted Gold in the Soil Award. The event, held at the Bedtime Hotel in Koforidua, not only showcased the remarkable achievements of women in the farming sector but also promoted gender equality and sustainable farming practices.
Margaret Agyei’s farming prowess is nothing short of extraordinary, as she adeptly manages a diverse range of crops and livestock on her impressive 94-acre farm. From a Palm Plantation, plantain, cassava, maize, cocoa, poultry, goat, grass cutter, rabbit, to cows, her integrated farming approach reflects a harmonious blend of agricultural activities contributing to a sustainable and productive farming landscape.
The 5th Women in Food and Agriculture Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards provided a significant platform to celebrate the accomplishments of women farmers and agripreneurs. Amongst the pool of talented participants, her dedication, hard work, and innovative farming methods stood out, earning her the ultimate recognition through the Gold in the Soil Award.
Margaret’s triumph in the face of numerous challenges exemplifies the resilience and determination of women in farming. Her outstanding achievements have not only inspired other women in the field but also garnered admiration and support from various stakeholders, including government officials and agricultural institutions.
Expressing her joy and gratitude, Margaret Agyei stated that , “I am truly honored and humbled to receive the Gold in the Soil Award. Farming has been my passion, and I am dedicated to making a positive impact on our community and the farming sector as a whole. This award is not just for me; it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of women farmers like me who strive to make a difference.”
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa Sarpong, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, commended Margret’s contributions, stating, “her remarkable success in farming exemplifies the spirit of the Gold in the Soil Award. It recognizes and celebrates the outstanding efforts of women farmers who play a critical role in driving our nation’s agricultural growth and food security.”
Margaret Agyei’s victory shines a spotlight on the significant contributions of women farmers in shaping Ghana’s farming landscape. The Gold in the Soil Award stands as a beacon of hope, encouraging and empowering more women to pursue their passions in farming and make a lasting impact on their communities and the nation as a whole. The fifth WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards was proudly brought to you by Agrihouse Foundation in partnership with Global Affairs Canada, YARA, RDF Ghana LBG, and the World Food Program with collaborating institutions including the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA),Eastern Regional Agricultural Directorate, Women in Agriculture Development (WIAD), the National Farmers and Fishermen Award Winners Association (NFFAWAG),and the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council .
Other sponsors for the 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards included Interplast Limited, Ghana Exim Bank, Browngi Tractors and Implements, RST Machinery Limited, Rainbow Agrosciences, HJA Africa, Moudlyne Gh. Ltd, The Hunger Project, and C-Mativents OTHER WINNERS OF THE PRESTIGIOUS GOLD IN THE SOIL AWARDS INCLUDES: *Passion for Farm Award: Nana Felicia Akyeamah
*Change Champion Award: Mrs. Dzidzinyo K Fianu
*Outstanding Woman in Extension Services: Delali Esi Agyeman
In a significant celebration of women’s contributions to the agricultural landscape, the 5th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) and Gold in the Soil Awards took center stage in Koforidua, Eastern Region. hosted by Agrihouse Foundation, The intervention served as a resounding testament to the empowerment and recognition of women farmers and women farmers with disabilities and agribusiness owners. From the 26th to the 27th of July, over 500 participants, including three hundred women farmers and farmers with disabilities, gathered to share knowledge,learn , foster collaboration, and commemorate the outstanding achievements of these remarkable women.
Hosted at the Bedtime Hotel in Koforidua, the two-day event centered around the theme, “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders.” This year’s forum celebrated, recognized, and supported the exceptional achievements of women farmers and women with disabilities while fostering collaborative efforts towards gender equality and sustainable agricultural practices.
The fifth edition of the Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) and Gold in the Soil Awards proved instrumental in providing practical training and mentorships to women farmers, thereby enhancing their capacity in farming and agribusiness. The intervention, also served as a platform to honour these remarkable women through the prestigious “Gold in the Soil Awards.”
In the past four years, the Regional Rotational Intervention,Have been successfully held in the Volta Region, Ashanti Region, Upper East and Upper West Regions and Western and Western North Region. This year, Koforidua was the chosen destination, attracting stakeholders from various sectors, including government officials, corporate leaders, policymakers, development partner organizations, agricultural institutions, and resource persons. The event provided a unique opportunity for women farmers and agribusiness owners in the Eastern Region to be celebrated and empowered with business knowledge and industry innovations, enabling them to excel further within the sector.
Global Affairs Canada, YARA, RDF Ghana LBG, and the World Food Program Partnered the event, with collaborating institutions including the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA),Eastern Regional Agricultural Directorate, Women in Agriculture Development (WIAD), the National Farmers and Fishermen Award Winners Association (NFFAWAG),and the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council .
Other sponsors for the 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards included Interplast Limited, Ghana Exim Bank, Browngi Tractors and Implements, RST Machinery Limited, Rainbow Agrosciences, HJA Africa, Moudlyne Gh. Ltd, The Hunger Project, and C-Mativents.
In her welcome address, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, emphasized the significance of inclusivity and empowerment for women with disabilities in the agricultural sector. She passionately spoke about the immense contributions of women farmers to Ghana’s agricultural landscape, highlighting how their dedication and resilience have played a pivotal role in advancing the sector.
“We must recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women farmers who form the backbone of our agricultural communities. Their hard work and unwavering commitment have ensured food security and economic prosperity for our nation. Through WOFAGRIC and the Gold in the Soil Awards, we aim to empower and uplift these women, providing them with the resources and recognition they deserve,” Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa Sarpong expressed with enthusiasm.
She further stressed the importance of supporting women farmers with disabilities, stating, “This year, we have given particular attention to women farmers with physical disabilities who have demonstrated extraordinary determination and resilience. We want to empower them to rise above their challenges and thrive in the agricultural sector.”
The event served as a thriving platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and showcasing innovations in the agricultural sector. With active participation and collaboration from stakeholders, the 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards successfully advanced its mission of empowering women in agriculture and promoting sustainable practices in the region.
The 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards not only celebrated the achievements of women in agriculture but also underscored the importance of their continued support and recognition to build a vibrant and inclusive agricultural landscape in Ghana.
