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.
AgriFood Future 2024 will further explore the connection of technological innovation and sustainability, all aimed at demonstrating how cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices can be integrated forward-looking Agri-food businesses.
AgriFood Future 2024 is expected to attract over 300 speakers who will contribute into digital transformation and expanding AgriFood systems within the African and the Caribbean regions.
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 addition to these initiatives, Prete has worked to improve market access for Italian Agri-food products, both domestically and internationally.
This year’s AgriFood Future will feature Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the first Ghanaian speaker at AgriFood Future. As the founder of the Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta As a leading advocate for women and youth in the agriculture value chain in Ghana. Her participation will highlight the global commitment to foster the collaboration within African and the Caribbean’s on the role of women in advancing global food systems.
Leading this transformative AgriFood Future initiative, Alex Giordano, a Scientific Director for Agrifood Future 2024, whose visionary leadership is set to drive AgriFood Future 2024 into a new era of innovation and sustainability.
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.
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.
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.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, will deliver a keynote address at the 2nd AgriFood Future 2024 in Salerno, Italy.
The Agrifood Future, a premium event scheduled from September 8 to 11, 2024, will feature her keynote on the topic “Women Leading in Agritech” is expected to highlight the vital role women are playing and will play and can play in advancing global food systems if given the platform.
Alberta will also be sharing Agrihouse Foundation’s Agri interventions and the growth and impacts the interventions have been making within the African Region.
The AgriFood Future is organized by Unioncamere and the Chamber of Commerce of Salerno, with the patronage of the European parliament, Italian ministries of Agriculture Food Sovereignty and Forestry; Environment and Energy Security; Businesses, and Made in Italy, this year’s event will focus on the theme “Building a Business in the Food System 5.0 with AI“ it will highlight and explore innovative practices, partnerships and collaborations that can drive growth and efficiency within the agri-food sector.
Alberta’s participation becomes very strategic this year as the AgriFood Future seeks to broaden its scope to cover the African and Caribbean Regions in the short and long term.
This major event is expected to lead to the expansion and participation of more African and Caribbean and offer the opportunity to delve into the global business in food systems and how we can collectively build it.
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.
According to her, participating in AgriFood Future 2024 will help promote and create opportunities for Ghana, Africa, and the Caribbean regions on the global stage.
“Ms. Akosa has been at the forefront of transforming agricultural practices in Africa, particularly through her work in promoting innovation, sustainability, and capacity building within the agricultural community in Ghana.
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”.
Adding his voice, the Scientific Director, for AgriFood Future, Alex Giordano Stated that Ms. Akosa’s selection to speak at AgriFood Future 2024, is in recognition of the substantial impact Agrihouse Foundation has made in Ghana’s agricultural sector, particularly in youth advocacy, women empowerment, and enhancing market accessibility through their initiatives and interventions.
‘’As a leading advocate for women, youth, and men in Ghana’s agriculture sector, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa embodies the spirit of innovation and progress that AgriFood Future aims to celebrate’’.
Her insights and participation at this year’s 2nd Agrifood Future will no doubt provide an invaluable perspective on the role of women in advancing global food systems and highlight how Africa can contribute to and benefit from global AgriFood advancements.
Sharing her excitement, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Unioncamere for the opportunity to deliver a keynote address at the 2nd Agrifood Future 2024.
“I am honored to be the first Ghanaian to address attendees at this year’s AgriFood Future, and I look forward to discussing how women leaders in Agritech are driving innovation and how Ghana and Africa can harness these advancements to create a more sustainable and equitable food system.”
She further emphasized that her insights aim to position Ghana and Africa as key players in the global agricultural arena, fostering valuable connections and business opportunities across international borders.
” The AgriFood Future 2024 provides an invaluable platform for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration, by this I will also explore how Africa can leverage global platforms like AgriFood Future to enhance agricultural practices,” stated Ms. Akosa.
Under Ms. Akosa’s leadership, the 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.
Additionally, Agrihouse Foundation hosts the annual Pre-Harvest Agribusiness Conference and Exhibitions, the Livestock, Poultry, and Fisheries Tradeshow, Ghana Agrochemical and Crop Protection Exhibitions and Awards (GACA), 1Household 1Garden, and Ghana Poultry Day. These initiatives have and continue to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders, particularly in rural communities where the innovation potential is vast but often untapped.
Tomatoes are an indispensable part of Ghanaian cuisine, featuring prominently in a myriad of daily dishes. However, the escalating cost of tomatoes has become a heavy burden for many Ghanaians, straining household budgets and threatening food security. Prices can surge dramatically, often doubling or tripling during off-peak seasons. These price hikes are driven by several factors, including the seasonal nature of production, substantial post-harvest losses, and a heavy reliance on costly imports.
The financial strain from high tomato prices has extensive implications. Low-income families, in particular, may reduce their tomato consumption, leading to potential nutritional deficiencies. Street food vendors and small restaurant owners, faced with increased costs, often pass these expenses on to consumers, further exacerbating food insecurity. The root causes of these high prices lie in deeper systemic issues within Ghana’s agricultural sector, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to quality inputs, and inconsistent government policies.
The Tomato Industry: A Microcosm of Agricultural Woes
Despite favorable climatic conditions for growing tomatoes, Ghana relies heavily on imports to meet domestic demand. This dependency highlights critical weaknesses in local agricultural practices, infrastructure, and policy support. Seasonal production variability, high post-harvest losses, and insufficient investment in cold storage and transportation infrastructure further exacerbate the problem, forcing reliance on imports from countries like Burkina Faso and Morocco.
Agriculture is the backbone of Ghana’s economy, providing employment for over half of the population and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. Yet, despite its vital role, the sector struggles with numerous challenges that hinder its full potential. The plight of the tomato industry in Ghana exemplifies the broader issues plaguing the agricultural sector. This article delves into the harsh realities faced by tomato farmers, the systemic problems caused or ignored by the government, and explores actionable steps to transform Ghana into a self-sufficient and net exporter of tomatoes.
Government Neglect and Policy Failures
Inconsistent Agricultural Policies
Lack of Long-Term Planning: The government has often implemented agricultural policies that lack long-term vision and consistency. Initiatives like the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program, while well-intentioned, have suffered from poor implementation and inadequate follow-through.
Regulatory Challenges: The regulatory environment is often cumbersome and inconsistent, deterring investment and innovation in the agricultural sector.
Infrastructure Deficits
Neglected Rural Infrastructure: The government has not prioritized the development of essential infrastructure in rural areas. Poor road networks and lack of reliable transportation systems hinder the efficient movement of tomatoes from farms to markets, leading to high post-harvest losses.
Inadequate Storage Facilities – Cold Chain: Despite the known perishability of tomatoes, there has been little investment in cold storage facilities. This neglect results in significant post-harvest losses and forces farmers to sell their produce quickly at lower prices.
Limited Support for Research and Development
Underfunded Agricultural Research: The government has not sufficiently funded research institutions to develop high-yield, disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant tomato varieties. Without these advancements, farmers continue to struggle with low productivity and high vulnerability to pests and diseases.
Lack of Extension Services: Extension services are crucial for educating farmers on best practices. However, these services are often under-resourced and poorly managed, leaving farmers without the necessary support to improve their yields and profitability.
Access to Inputs and Financing
High Cost of Inputs: Farmers face high costs for quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, with minimal subsidies or financial support from the government. This lack of assistance limits their ability to adopt modern farming techniques.
Scarce Credit Facilities: The government has not facilitated adequate access to affordable credit for smallholder farmers. Without financial support, farmers cannot invest in necessary inputs and infrastructure.
Seasonal Production and Perishability
Tomato farming in Ghana is highly seasonal. Peak harvests occur from January to March, while the rainy season, spanning from April to September, sees a sharp decline in production. This seasonal variability creates significant supply gaps that are filled by imports, particularly from Burkina Faso and Morocco. The perishability of tomatoes exacerbates the problem. With inadequate storage and cold chain infrastructure, a significant portion of the local harvest is lost post-harvest. Farmers are forced to sell their produce quickly at lower prices to avoid spoilage, resulting in minimal profits and substantial food waste.
Quality Mismatch
The types of tomatoes produced locally are often not suited for the needs of the market, especially the processing industry. Local varieties, such as the popular Roma tomato, have high water content and short shelf life, making them less suitable for processing into paste, sauces, and canned products. In contrast, imported varieties are preferred for their firmer texture, lower water content, and consistent quality, which are ideal for industrial use.
The Economic Impact of Tomato Imports
Ghana spends a substantial amount of foreign exchange on importing tomatoes. The country spends approximately $400 million annually to import fresh tomatoes, primarily from Burkina Faso. This significant outflow of foreign exchange highlights the economic cost of the country’s dependency on imports and underscores the urgent need to bolster local production (National Food Buffer Stock Company) (AgricToday).
Pathways to Self-Sufficiency and Export Potential
Varietal Improvement and Adoption
Demand for Processing Varieties: The market demands tomatoes with lower water content and firmer texture, suitable for processing into paste and sauces. Hybrid varieties that meet these criteria, such as those developed in research institutions, should be promoted.
Partnership with research institutions in European, South American, and Asian countries that have adopted “seed without borders” to provide tomato lines that have undergone initial breeding trials for Ghana to evaluate within 2-3 years to get the right varieties that suit our climatic conditions so we avoid the long term (8-9 years breeding) work.
Research and Development: Investing in research to develop high-yield, disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant tomato varieties is crucial. Collaborations with agricultural universities and international research bodies can expedite this process.
The Ghana Food Research Fund.
The fund’s establishment will drive Research into smart technologies such as IoT and satellite imaging to detect pests and diseases. R & D in horizontal and vertical ecosystems must be implemented in greenhouse technologies.
Infrastructure Development
Cold Storage Facilities: Establishing cold storage facilities at key production sites and markets can significantly reduce post-harvest losses and extend the shelf life of tomatoes and Processing equipment.
Improved Transportation: Upgrading road networks and transportation systems will facilitate the efficient movement of tomatoes from farms to markets, reducing spoilage and cost.
Access to Inputs and Financing
Subsidies and Incentives: Providing subsidies for high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides can improve productivity. Incentives for adopting modern farming techniques, such as drip irrigation and greenhouse farming, can also boost yields. For example, in Japan, the government gives 50% subsidies to farmers. Ghana should learn from Japan.
Microfinance and Credit Facilities: Expanding access to affordable credit through microfinance institutions and agricultural banks can empower farmers to invest in necessary inputs and infrastructure.
Extension Services and Training
Farmer Education: Strengthening agricultural extension services to educate farmers on best practices for tomato cultivation, pest management, and post-harvest handling is essential.
Adoption of the use of infographics, and mobile apps in different languages for building the capacity of farmers’ agricultural best practices should be mandatory.
Capacity Building: Training programs focusing on modern agricultural techniques, financial literacy, and market access can enhance the capacity of farmers to operate efficiently and profitably.
Market Development and Policy Support
Domestic and Export Markets: Developing both domestic and international markets for Ghanaian tomatoes can enhance profitability. Establishing quality standards and certifications can make local tomatoes competitive in global markets.
Supportive Policies: Implementing policies that promote investment in the tomato value chain, including tax incentives for agro-processors and exporters, can drive industry growth. Ensuring consistent and supportive agricultural policies will create a stable environment for farmers and investors.
Pest and Disease Management
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Promoting IPM practices can help manage pests and diseases sustainably. Research into biological control methods and resistant varieties should be prioritized. The application of satellite services in pest and disease detection is key.
Extension Support: Providing timely and effective support to farmers through extension services can help mitigate the impact of pests and diseases on tomato crops. AI prompts must be adopted and privatization of extension must be affected.
Conclusion
The sad reality of the agricultural sector in Ghana, exemplified by the tomato industry, underscores the need for comprehensive and strategic interventions. Ghana can transform its tomato industry by addressing the challenges of varietal suitability, infrastructure deficits, access to inputs and financing, and market development. The government’s neglect and policy failures have exacerbated these issues, but with concerted efforts from the government, private sector, and international partners, Ghana has the potential to become self-sufficient in tomato production and emerge as a net exporter, contributing significantly to food security and economic growth.
IN SUMMARY
1. Post-harvest losses: Many tomatoes rot before reaching the market due to inadequate storage and transportation facilities.
2. Lack of irrigation: Tomato farming relies heavily on rainfall, which can be unpredictable. Irrigation systems are scarce, making it difficult for farmers to maintain consistent yields.
3. Pests and diseases: Tomato crops are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as the tomato leaf miner and bacterial wilt, which can significantly reduce yields.
4. Limited access to markets: Smallholder farmers often struggle to connect with buyers, leading to low prices and income instability.
5. Outdated farming practices: Many farmers still use traditional methods, which can lead to low productivity and decreased quality.
6. Climate change: Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns affect tomato yields and quality.
7. Competition from imports: Cheap tomato imports from other countries can flood the market, making it difficult for local farmers to compete.
8. Greenhouse technologies, smart farming techniques utilizing IoT, Satellite and robotics, and nutrient solution technology will make tomato production sexy and attractive.
To transform Ghana’s agribusiness ecosystem credibility, the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana in collaboration with the Business Advisory Service Providers Association of Ghana (BASPAG), with support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through Feed the Future Ghana Trade and Investment have launched Business Development Service (BDS) application and the Ghana Business Directory for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.
According to the CEO of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana, Farmer Morrison the Directory will provide SMEs with enhanced opportunities for accessing credit facilities more easily and will facilitate partnerships with key stakeholders across the Agribusiness value chain.
“We have developed an Agribusiness Directory and a service provider network to improve the credibility, accessibility, and affordability of services for these businesses,” He elaborated.
He emphasized that the BDS application and the Ghana Business Directory will serve as a critical platform, helping to establish a credibility bureau within the SME sector.
He further noted the importance of implementing a robust verification system to ensure the legitimacy of applicants and the services they offer, including trade, financial advisory, and business development services.
Moreover, Morrison announced that the Chamber plans to establish the Ghana Agribusiness Club One-Hundred aims to assist Agribusinesses and SMEs in securing substantial loans from credit facilities.
Farmer Morrison underscored the Chamber’s commitment to ongoing partnerships with entities such as Ghana Trade and Investment, Feed the Future, USAID, and other collaborators.
He acknowledged the support received from these partners, which has been instrumental in their programs, particularly in the Northern region. There, they engaged with farmers through what they refer to as the Farmer Policy initiative, aimed at educating farmers on agricultural policies and practices.
The Ghana Soybeans Farmers and Aggregators Association wants the government to as a matter of urgency, withdraw the ban on the exportation of grains.
The association says the ban is not the best for farmers whose livelihoods depend on grain exportation.
The government on Tuesday, August 27, announced a ban on grain exportation to address the drought spell in the northern part of the country.
Director of Administration for the Ghana Soybeans Farmers Aggregators Association, Abdul Hakeem Issah, said the ban is not the best.
“The recent ban on grains cannot solve the problem. And what we are saying is that the situation can still be resolved. It is not bad yet.
“What we are saying is that Buffer Stock was created to accumulate grains, grains in the peak season, and store them at their warehouses and release those grains during the lean season which the government has failed to do over the years. So we are saying that as the situation exists currently, we shouldn’t put in the ban.”
The Business Advisory Service Providers Association of Ghana (BASPAG) and the Chamber of Agribusiness of Ghana, with support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through Feed the Future Ghana Trade and Investment, have unveiled the Business Development Service (BDS) application and the Ghana Business Directory for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.
This initiative is designed to transform, support, and empower SMEs, ensuring their success and sustainability.
Speaking on the theme “Empowering Ghanaian Agribusiness: Unlocking Growth through Digital Innovation,” Nikaj Van Wees, Chief of Party of the Ghana Trade and Investment program, affirmed that the BDS application and the Ghana Business Directory represent crucial catalysts for development and improvement in the agribusiness sector.
Van Wees highlighted that the application is designed to leverage existing resources to help all businesses thrive.
He emphasized that the BDS application is not just a tool but a means to foster inclusivity within the sector. Allowing all stakeholders to subscribe to the platform, it aims to bring together various partners and facilitate collaboration.
Van Wees stressed that the application will play a key role in joining forces, sharing resources, unlocking new opportunities, and shaping a brighter future for the agribusiness sector.
The CEO of the Chamber of Agribusiness, Farmer Anthony Morrison, underscored the importance of the newly launched BDS application.
He pointed out that the application is set to play a crucial role in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 9, which is centred on the fostering industry, driving innovation, and enhancing infrastructure.
Additionally, it will contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 17, which is aimed at bolstering global partnerships.
Farmer Morrison highlighted that the BDS application aligns with these goals by promoting technological advancements and fostering collaborative efforts, thereby supporting broader economic and developmental objectives.
Juliana Asante-Dartey, Deputy CEO of Agri Impact Group, addressed the stakeholders gathered, emphasizing the significance of embracing technological advancements.
She underscored that the traditional methods of agribusiness are becoming outdated and that technology is the future.
Asante-Dartey expressed optimism about creating approximately 360,000 jobs in the next four years through this initiative.
“We can not continue to rely on the traditional ways of agribusiness,” she asserted, highlighting the need for modern approaches to meet evolving demands and improve productivity.
The President of the Business Advisory Providers Association of Ghana, Sam Atiemo, commended the BDS application.
He noted that the application represents more than just a platform—it signifies a fundamental change in how business is conducted.
Atiemo explained that with the convenience of a digital platform, businesspersons can connect with clients at minimal costs, significantly enhancing productivity.
“Let’s unlock the potential of our SMEs as enablers of growth and change; it’s not only an application but a bridge,” he stated, underlining the transformative impact the application is expected to have.
Franklin Karikari, Director of Business Support at the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Plan (NEIP), discussed the application’s role in supporting young entrepreneurs aiming to contribute to the country’s food supply.
Karikari noted that the BDS application offers a valuable opportunity for the government to engage with young people in the agribusiness sector.
He expressed strong governmental support for the initiative and anticipated its successful implementation and utilization.
The launch of the BDS application and the Ghana Business Directory marks a significant step forward in supporting and empowering SMEs within Ghana’s agribusiness sector.
The initiative promises to facilitate modernized practices, foster collaboration, and drive economic growth by leveraging digital innovation.
Through the collective efforts of various stakeholders, this project aims to unlock new potential, enhance productivity, and contribute to a thriving agribusiness ecosystem in Ghana.
The BDS application is available on Google Play Store and App Store with the name BDSGH.
In recent days, I’ve been deeply engrossed in reading Manasseh Azure Awuni’s 409-page book, “The President Ghana Never Got”. The book’s ironic title mainly highlights the political developments under Ghana’s current president. Every night at 21:00 GMT +2, I make it a point to stream JoyNews live to catch the major news bulletin from Ghana.
On August 22, 2024, while browsing the internet, four significant news headlines grabbed my attention, reminding me of how I could apply MaxQDA to identify patterns, categorisation, themes etc., during content analysis, as discussed in our qualitative lecture—all the news headlines related to the country’s food security threat.
1. “Farmers Count Their Losses as Dry Spell Jeopardises Crop Yields” – Source: Adomonline.com, August 19, 2024
2. “Techiman Muslims Hold Islamic Prayer and Rain Ritual to End Drought” – Source: JoyNews 12pm News, August 21, 2024
3. “Bagre Dam Spillage: Limited Relief Items Available, Move to Higher Ground” – Source: Myjoyonline.com, August 19, 2024
4. “Drought: GHS 1.18 Billion Agriculture Investment at Risk” – Source: Graphic.com News, August 22, 2024
Food security in the West African subregion is a critical issue that needs collaborative efforts from the political actors and the scientific communities.
As I said a collaborative effort is needed, and Ghana as a key player in the region, is well-positioned to take a lead role in such endeavour. Ensuring food and nutritional security should be a fundamental priority any nation should strive to achieve.
Just as the economists say, “money is the lifeblood of every economy” and so is food also the fuel for a healthy and active population. Without a well-nourished populace, no meaningful economic activities can take place, and hence a zero-sum game in game theory.
The other day, I found myself wondering whether crop growth depends solely on the availability of freshwater or specifically on rainwater. Of course, fresh water in any form, including rivers, lakes, streams, etc., is essential for plant growth. But when I came across the first, second, and third news reports, I couldn’t help but ask myself, has the same God cursed us? Farmers are counting their losses as the dry spell jeopardises their crop yields, despite the claim that the meteorological agency’s forecast predicts such weather conditions. The question is whether the farmers were not informed due to a failure in agricultural extension services, or if they were informed but chose not to believe in the predicted outcome.
In today’s world, we cannot continue to do things the way our grandparents and those who came after them did. We have access to tried and tested technologies that should empower us to make precise weather predictions over an extended period.
Although, I acknowledge some efforts have been made, however, we understand the metaphorical expression that says, “put money where your mouth is,” we would recognise that the current investment in the Meteorological Agency is woefully inadequate. In most parts of the world, one would have to check the weather conditions before going out.
The Bible in Luke 10:19 KJV states, “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” We have been blessed with everything we need to conquer hunger, poverty, and unemployment. What we truly need is leadership—strong and effective leadership. It would be frustrating to keep asking your earthly father for help with something he has already empowered you to overcome. So I think it would be for God.
For all these years, the potential benefits from the annual spillage of the Bagre Dam remained untapped. As an agriculturist, I had read and believed the NPP’s 2016 manifesto promise of “1 district, 1 dam” as a potential game changer in boosting the country’s irrigational scheme– offering smallholder farmers much-needed irrigation opportunities.
That notwithstanding, I had hoped that the groundbreaking for the multipurpose Pwalugu Dam would finally put an end to the devastating effects of the Bagre Dam spillage. Unfortunately, it turned out to be nothing more than a phantom project.
Why do we continually allocate funds for relief items in anticipation of future disasters, rather than investing in solutions to prevent those catastrophes? We could draw inspiration from Henry Kissinger, the German-born American bureaucrat and 1973 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who once said; “There can’t be a crisis next week; my schedule is already full.” This mindset underscores the importance of proactive measures addressing problems before they escalate into crises.
Again, why wouldn’t the Techiman Muslims in the Bono East Region muster the same determination to demand accountability from their leaders on the 1 District 1 Dam promise, instead of turning to Allah for propitiation?
We should not be pleased that the rains have started pouring down, as crop production follows a specific calendar period.
I recall how my former District Director of Agriculture (DDA), Mr. Lovelace Kudoto, currently the DDA at Ketu North Municipality Assembly, Dzodze, would consistently press the honourable District Chief Executive (DCE) to release the Modernising Agriculture in Ghana (MAG) fund promptly.
The timely release of budgeted funds was essential to ensure that the interventions outlined in the department’s work plan were implemented, enabling farmers to fully benefit from the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) programme.
When the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) programme began in 2017, subsidised fertilisers and seeds were sold to farmers at 50% of the original cost.
However, even now, some farmers across the 216 departments of agriculture have not fully settled their debts, and the departments have not fully recovered the funds. The farmers just refused to pay under numerous reasons, some cogent but majority refused paying because the inputs came from the government.
Those debts are still sitting on the books of the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District (MM/D) Department of Agriculture. I believe this led to a policy shift in subsequent years, where private businesses were allowed to manage PFJ inputs while the various departments focused on providing technical assistance.
Fast forward, in 2024, as part of the Ghana Agriculture and Agribusiness Platform (GhAAP) farmer registration, the ministry is distributing free inputs (fertiliser and seeds) to farmers in the various MM/D Assemblies at GHS1.18 billion, I think. If we can distribute free inputs to farmers today, why didn’t we do this long ago? And why now—could it be because we are in 2024?
Although the government may intend well, the current delay in the rain is making it difficult for farmers to utilise those inputs effectively. My advice to those planning to cultivate cereals now should consider using early-maturing seeds, such as Omankwa (maize), Jasmine 85 (rice), Bance (rice), Togo Marshall (rice). The list is not exhaustive, so consult your extension agent in your operational area for further guidance to maximise your chances of a successful harvest.
As a matter of urgency, we need policies that will boost crop production in the short to medium term. This can be achieved through two main approaches: expanding the cropped area and enhancing agricultural practices to increase productivity per unit area. Targeted subsidies can significantly improve production among smallholder farmers.
However, we must also address the needs of experienced commercial farmers, who have often been overlooked in our agricultural policies. It’s time to consider coupled payments for commercial farmers.
While we encourage smallholder farmers to improve their practices to boost productivity per unit area, commercial farmers could be supported with coupled payments to incentivize them to expand their production. This balanced approach will ensure that all farmers regardless of their scale of production are empowered to contribute to national food security and economic growth.
The Chairman and Chief Executive of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana, Anthony Kofituo Morrison, has criticised the government’s decision to ban the exportation of grain.
He described the ban as a “knee-jerk reaction” arguing that it was unnecessary.
Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story, Mr. Morrison argued that the available data on grains does not justify the ban.
“We at the Chamber find the ban a bit unnecessary. We think it is a knee-jerk reaction from the government. If you look at the data the government is presenting, we are importing 300,000 metric tonnes of maize and 150,000 metric tonnes of rice.
“Our national consumption for maize is around 3.2 million metric tonnes, with a deficit of about 900,000 metric tonnes. For rice, the consumption is around 1.92 million metric tonnes, with a deficit of nearly 1 million metric tonnes,” he explained.
This follows the announcement of an immediate ban on the export of key grains, including maize, rice, and soybean in response to the ongoing dry spell that has devastated agricultural production in eight regions.
According to the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, this measure will ensure food security within the country.
But Mr. Morrison noted that the current dry spell is indeed a national security issue.
He pointed out that many warehouses near the northern borders are hoarding grains, and he believes this is an opportunity for the government to engage with grain traders to mop up grain out of the system.
In a bid to address the disconnect between Ghana’s youth and the burgeoning opportunities in agriculture, Jobberman Ghana is set to host the Jobberman Ghana Career Fair and Employer Forum on Wednesday, August 28- Thursday, August 29, 2024. The event, which will be held at the UPSA Auditorium from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm each day, is a key component of the Agriculture Innovation for Africa (AIA) Conference.
The career fair, themed “Beyond the Fields: Exploring Agribusiness and Job Opportunities for Young People,” aims to illuminate the vast potential within Ghana’s agricultural sector and to foster engagement between industry stakeholders, employers, and job seekers. This initiative aligns with Jobberman Ghana’s ‘Discover the New Agric’ initiative under the Harnessing Agricultural Productivity and Prosperity for Youth (HAPPY) Program. This program seeks to unlock agri-business employment opportunities for young Ghanaian women and men.
“In Ghana, agriculture is the bedrock of our economy, yet there remains a notable disconnect between its potential and the career opportunities it presents,” said Jemima Ashietey, Head of Marketing at Jobberman Ghana. “Our goal with this career fair is to shift that narrative and show young people that agribusiness is not only viable but rich with diverse career paths.”
She further emphasized, “The Jobberman Ghana Career Fair is crafted to be a comprehensive platform for dialogue and interaction between aspiring professionals and agribusiness employers. We aim to showcase the wide range of career options within agriculture and address the challenges faced by employers in this vital sector.”
The event, a collaboration between Jobberman and Kosmos Innovation Center, is anticipated to attract approximately 500 job seekers and will feature 50 employers who will exhibit and engage with attendees. Highlights of the event include networking opportunities, panel discussions, and skill-building workshops.
In addition to addressing the knowledge gap, the fair will also provide insights into the numerous underappreciated career opportunities within agribusiness. By connecting job seekers with industry leaders, the event seeks to inspire and prepare the next generation of professionals in the agribusiness value chain.
In a statement, the Executive Director of Kosmos Innovation Center, Mr. Benjamin Gyan-Kesse highlighted the importance of empowering young people to interact with industry stakeholders on work-readiness skills and available opportunities within the agricultural value chain, contributing to the nation’s economic growth. “We are excited to support this initiative and look forward to its positive impact on Ghana’s agribusiness landscape” he remarked.
For more information on the Jobberman Ghana Career Fair and Employer Forum, visit Jobberman Ghana’s Career Fair and Employer Forum website www.jobberman.com.gh/career-fair-2024 or call 0270176662.
