Food and Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong has expressed scepticism about recent data released by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) on food prices and inflation, questioning the sources of their information.
Speaking on PM Express Business Edition on Joy News, he said his Ministry’s own tracking of food prices paints a different picture than what has been reported.
“I don’t know where Statistical Service collected their data from,” the Minister stated bluntly.
“I am in every part of this country daily. I get data on farm gate prices of almost 22 commodities that we are tracking. I get market prices of these items daily.”
Bryan Acheampong highlighted the fact that while maize prices have indeed risen due to the dry spell, prices for other essential food items such as plantain, tomatoes, onions, and cassava have dropped significantly.
“Plantain has dropped by 27%, tomatoes by 30%, onions by 11%, and cassava by 13%,” he said, dismissing the idea that food prices are spiralling out of control.
He added, “This is what is happening on the ground… If you go to the market, the prices of everything, except maize, are coming down.”
The Minister also pointed out the misunderstanding in how inflation figures are presented.
According to him, the Ghana Statistical Service’s method of comparing September 2024 prices to those of September 2023 doesn’t reflect the more recent downward trend in food prices.
“Inflation figures for September are comparing prices from September this year to last year September. But I am telling you, from January to date, the price of food is going down,” Bryan Acheampong clarified.
He elaborated further by noting that despite the dry spell, food prices had largely stabilised, especially during September.
“Notwithstanding the announcement of the dry spell, we’ve seen a significant decrease in the prices of food on the market. The foods that we eat—tomatoes, onions, peppers, cassava, plantain, soya, sorghum, millet—except for maize, everything is going down.”
Bryan Acheampong concluded by reaffirming his commitment to keeping his finger on the pulse of Ghana’s food systems and ensuring accurate data is provided.
He suggested that the Statistical Service’s methods may not capture the day-to-day realities of the markets as closely as his Ministry’s data.
Many perishable food items on the market have been observed to be deteriorating at a faster rate than usual in recent times.
The alarming revelation has been attributed to the abuse and misuse of inorganic fertilizer applications.
The situation is heavily impacting the marketing of such produce as traders bemoan post-harvest losses, particularly of vegetables such as okra and pepper.
At the Ayigya market in Kumasi, traders are noticing the declining quality of vegetables they purchase from various farming communities.
Felicity Osei, a trader at the market, indicated that her baskets of pepper lasted longer and only shrunk in size before rotting, but now they deteriorate within just three days.
She notes the vegetable barely changes colour or dry out as they did previously before perishing.
“In the past, you could see a color change before they spoiled. Nowadays, tomatoes are visibly coated with a lot of pesticides. The vegetables do not change in color before they rot, but earlier the vegetables would change in color before rotting. The visibility of weedicide on tomatoes is much,” she stated.
The traders fingered the excessive application of fertilizer on farms as the possible cause of the disturbing trend.
Causes of early deterioration
Scientists at the Crops Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-CRI) confirmed the situation, asserting that the pesticides are not the only contributing factor.
Weed Scientist, Dr. Stephen Arthur, explains the application of pesticides distort the biochemical structure of the crops, weakening their natural ability to withstand certain weather conditions or external factors.
“Any part of the plant where the herbicide touches their deterioration is. It destroys the cells and causes necrosis and general distraction of the plant,” he said.
He noted some herbicides like the paraquat, otherwise called Gramazone, are known to deteriorate the crop’s shelf life.
Dr. Arthur stated that the farmers do not go by the recommended dosage and time use.
“I observed farmers using paraquat on fruits today and harvesting them the following day for the market. In this situation, the fruit is still alive, so once it is picked, it begins to deteriorate,” he said.
Pathogens have also been identified to contribute to the early spoilage of the vegetables.
Plant pathologist, Dr. Akwasi Aidoo, observed pathogens aid the destruction of the crops after pesticide destroys the plant tissues, leading to premature aging and destruction of the plant’s defense mechanism.
“This makes the plant more vulnerable to pathogens and disrupts the regulation of plant hormones, ultimately affecting respiration since the fruit is still alive,” he said.
Climate change is also not an overruled contributory factor as the warming climate and humid conditions are reported to aid in rapid deterioration.
The warning
Dr. Arthur is warning farmers against the use of the herbicide, paraquat, on any plant during fruit setting and/or flowering as they are said to have a carry-over effect – the transfer of unwanted materials to another organism.
He is advising farmers to observe the pre-harvest interval to avoid the deterioration and harmful exposure of the crops to chemicals.
“The whitish substance observed on fruits results from farmers not applying paraquat in a timely manner. In our interactions with some farmers, they said the market women are the ones asking to see the whitish substance on their vegetables; otherwise, they won’t buy them at a reasonable price, which leads to losses for the farmers,” he said.
The condition not only affects the freshness and appeal of the produce, but also begs the question about food safety and the health implications for consumers. How to store the crops
There are however ways both farmers and vegetable vendors can adopt to prevent their crops from deteriorating at a faster pace.
Farmers are advised to harvest at dawn and dusk when temperatures are lower as the higher degrees of heat can cause plant stress.
Abigail Amoa-Owusu, a Post Harvest Technologist, highlighted the essence of storing the harvested crops in a cool environment.
“Right after harvesting, the produce must be stored in a farmhouse or a very cool place to prevent heat from building up on the produce. Farmers should sort the produce by separating the leaves from the mother plant and distinguishing the ripe ones from the unripe ones.
“After separating, you should use a good packaging material like a plastic crate and place it in a truck, either a cool van or a truck with a white trampoline to reflect the heat from the produce,” she said.
However, for rapidly perishable vegetables like pepper and okra, storing them at around 8 to 10°C is optimum.
Onions, on the other hand, must be dried under the sun for 12 to 24 hours after being uprooted from the ground under the process known as field curing.
Ms. Amoa-Owusu explains the process prevents disease infestations, wounds, and maintains the colour of the onion ensuring it lasts for more than 6 months.
As an individual, storing these food items is crucial for healthy living.
The scientists advised washing of the vegetables in white vinegar and water to minimize pesticide residue.
“For pepper and tomato, they are high in ethylene, so you should not put them in one packaging material because it causes fast deterioration.
Amidst these prevailing challenges, the traders want stricter surveillance by the Food and Drugs Authority in ensuring the farmers adhere to the proper use of the fertilizers and other good farming practices.
“The food and drug authorities should do more research about the chemicals being used because humans’ beings are very wicked and would purchase the wrong products and sell them for a higher price,” said Mary Ahenkrah, a trader.
The government has agreed to revoke the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L. I. 2462) as part of a new move in the fight against illegal mining commonly known as galamsey [gather and sell].
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has directed that the necessary steps to revoke the L.I. should be taken when Parliament reconvenes this October.
This is following public calls for government to take a decisive move against illegal mining and the notice by Organised Labour to embark on a nationwide strike beginning Thursday, October 10.
Following the call by Organised Labour and other stakeholders on the government to take action on the menace of illegal small-scale mining in the country, President Akufo-Addo has also directed that the enforcement measures should be ramped up.
This means all those currently mining in prohibited areas are to stop, particularly those engaging in mining in water bodies and forest reserves are to stop.
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor has told Graphic Online that the military is being deployed to go and demobilise all machinery of illegal miners.
Demobilisation of the equipment means the military are to destroy all such machines being used for illegal mining, the minister said.
This means “Water bodies and Forest Reserves remain Red Zones for mining, and all forms of mining in water bodies, as well as reconnaissance, prospecting, exploration and/or small scale mining in Forest Reserves remain banned.”
The Law enforcement agencies of the State are fully mandated to rid our water bodies and Forest Reserves of all forms of mining, a statement dated October 7, 2024, signed and issued Monday night by the Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar communicating the President’s directive said.
Attached below is a copy of the statement
RE: OUTCOME OF PRESIDENT’S MEETING WITH ORGANISED LABOUR
1. Following the call by Organised Labour and other stakeholders on Government to take action on the menace of illegal small-scale mining in the country, the President of the Republic, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, convened a meeting with Organised Labour on Thursday, 3rd October, 2024 at the Jubilee House.
2. The meeting discussed the long-standing issue of illegal mining, reviewed the situation and Government’s effort thus far. It was agreed between the parties that:
A. Government will collaborate with Organised Labour and other stakeholders in the fight against illegal mining.
B. Government will take steps, when Parliament reconvenes, this month, to revoke the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L. I. 2462).
C. Government would ramp up its enforcement measures, particularly as it relates to prohibiting illegal mining in water bodies and forest reserves.
D. Water bodies and Forest Reserves remain Red Zones for mining, and all forms of mining in water bodies, as well as reconnaissance, prospecting, exploration and/or small scale mining in Forest Reserves remain banned. Law enforcement agencies of the State are fully mandated to rid our water bodies and Forest Reserves of all forms of mining.
E. The Attorney-General will collaborate with the Chief Justice to ensure swift adjudication of illegal mining cases.
F. Government supports the call for all Presidential Candidates to sign a pact committing to the fight against illegal mining so as to depoliticise this national problem.
3. In light of the above, Government is surprised by the decision of Organised Labour to proceed on an industrial action from 10th October, 2024.
Government will, however, continue to engage Organised Labour and other stakeholders in a constructive dialogue in finding solutions for this national menace.
4. Government reiterates its commitment to the fight against illegal small-scale mining and calls on all stakeholders to join the fight.
The leadership of the Cocoa Carriers Association has instructed its members at the Tema, Takoradi, and Kumasi depots of the Cocoa Marketing Company Limited to commence an indefinite sit-down strike starting Monday, October 7, 2024, over issues related to their conditions of service.
In 2022, members of the Association undertook a similar strike, demanding wage increases and improved working conditions.
The previous strike led to thousands of bags of cocoa beans being left unattended at various Cocoa Marketing Company Limited warehouses.
National Chairman of the Cocoa Carriers Association, Raymond Atanga Abobiga, in an interview with Citi News on Sunday, issued the directive, urging all members to participate fully in the upcoming indefinite strike.
“We are going to report at work but will be at the gate of the various warehouses and then we are not going to work until they attend to our needs and our demands.
“I want the management of COCBOD and our directors to know that we are not against an individual and that we are fighting a just cause,” he stated.
US-based Licensed Professional Engineer, Dr Juliet Ohemeng-Ntiamoah, has clarified that the process of treating polluted water from contaminated water sources does not include the removal of heavy metals.
According to her, the standard water treatment process addresses turbidity but fails to eliminate harmful metals.
Speaking on Newsfile on Saturday, October 5 on the sideline of the effect of illegal mining which has caused pollution of water bodies, Dr Ohemeng-Ntiamoah outlined the steps involved in water treatment, starting with coagulation, where a chemical such as alum is added to cause small particles that create turbidity to clump together.
She mentioned flocculation as the next step, during which these particles combine to form larger clumps, or “floc,” that settle at the bottom, leaving clearer water at the top.
Following this, she mentioned the disinfection process, where chlorine or other chemicals are used to kill pathogens such as bacteria and viruses.
The final step involves filtration to remove any remaining particles, ensuring the water is clear and safe to use.
In light of this, Dr Ohemeng-Ntiamoah stressed, “All these processes that I have described, none of them remove heavy metal. The typical water treatment process does not include the removal of heavy metals.”
She further explained that water sources contaminated with heavy metals should ideally not be used as drinking water.
According to her, the issue is far more serious than just the muddiness seen in polluted rivers across the country.
“With the treatment process of muddy waters, we remove the muddy side or the turbidity but then there is still residual heavy metals concentration that is not removed by the water treatment process and to be able to remove that, we need to add an additional process unit,” Dr Ohemeng-Ntiamoah added.
“Unlocking the Potential of Rural Youth: Harnessing Agricultural Technology for Sustainable Growth”
Africa’s rural youth communities hold the key to unlocking the continent’s agricultural potential. With over 70% of Africa’s population residing in rural areas, and 60% of the workforce engaged in agriculture, the sector’s growth is crucial for poverty reduction and economic development (AFDB, 2020). However, rural youth face significant challenges, including limited access to education, training, and resources, resulting in a brain drain and urban migration (FAO, 2019).
Yet, a new era of agricultural technology (AgTech) offers unprecedented opportunities for rural youth to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth. According to a report by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), digital agriculture could increase agricultural productivity by up to 70% and reduce poverty by 20-30% (IFAD, 2020).
This article explores the transformative potential of AgTech for rural youth communities, highlighting successful initiatives, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the policy support needed to overcome barriers to adoption.
CHALLENGES FACING RURAL YOUTH COMMUNITIES
Rural youth communities in Africa encounter numerous challenges that hinder their potential and limit their opportunities.
1. Limited Access to Education and Training
40% of rural youth lack access to secondary education (UNESCO, 2020)
Limited vocational training and skills development programs (ILO, 2019)
2. Insufficient Job Opportunities and Career Advancement
60% of rural youth are unemployed or underemployed (AFDB, 2020)
Limited access to markets, finance, and technology (FAO, 2019)
3. Brain Drain and Urban Migration
50% of rural youth migrate to urban areas in search of better opportunities (UNDP, 2020)
Loss of skilled and educated youth, exacerbating rural poverty (IFAD, 2020)
4. Limited Access to Resources and Infrastructure
30% of rural communities lack access to electricity (IEA, 2020)
Inadequate transportation, storage, and irrigation facilities (FAO, 2019)
5. Social and Cultural Barriers
Limited participation of women and girls in decision-making processes (UN Women, 2020)
Cultural norms and expectations constraining youth innovation and entrepreneurship (ILO, 2019)
These interconnected challenges perpetuate poverty, inequality, and social exclusion, undermining the potential of rural youth to drive Africa’s agricultural transformation.
THE ROLE OF AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY
Agricultural technology (AgTech) has the potential to revolutionize the agricultural sector in Africa, particularly for rural youth. By leveraging digital solutions, precision agriculture, and innovative business models, AgTech can increase productivity, improve decision-making, and enhance market access.
Digital Agriculture
Digital agriculture, which involves the use of digital technologies such as mobile apps, satellite imaging, and big data analytics, has shown significant promise in improving agricultural productivity. For instance, a study by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) found that digital agriculture can increase agricultural productivity by up to 70% and reduce poverty by 20-30% (IFAD, 2020). Similarly, a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlights the potential of digital agriculture to improve agricultural efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance decision-making (FAO, 2019).
Precision Agriculture
Precision agriculture, which involves the use of advanced technologies such as drones, satellite imaging, and precision irrigation, can significantly improve crop yields and reduce waste. According to a report by the African Agricultural Transformation Initiative, precision agriculture can increase crop yields by up to 20% and reduce water usage by up to 30% (AATI, 2020).
Mobile Applications
Mobile applications have also emerged as a key tool for rural youth to access agricultural information, markets, and financial services. For example, the Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Agency’s (ATA) mobile app has reached over 1 million farmers, providing them with critical information on weather, soil health, and market prices (ATA, 2020).
E-Extension Services
E-extension services, which involve the use of digital platforms to provide agricultural extension services, have also shown significant promise. A study by the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) found that e-extension services can increase farmers’ knowledge by up to 40% and improve agricultural productivity by up to 25% (CIAT, 2019).
Impact on Rural Youth
The adoption of AgTech has significant implications for rural youth. By providing access to digital platforms, precision agriculture, and mobile applications, AgTech can:
Improve agricultural productivity and income
Enhance decision-making and market access
Increase access to financial services and markets
Provide opportunities for entrepreneurship and job creation
Support climate-resilient agriculture
According to a report by the African Development Bank (AFDB), the adoption of AgTech can create up to 1 million jobs for rural youth in Africa by 2025 (AFDB, 2020).
OPPORTUNITIES FOR RURAL YOUTH
The adoption of agricultural technology (AgTech) presents numerous opportunities for rural youth to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Rural youth can leverage AgTech to establish innovative businesses, creating employment opportunities and improving livelihoods. For instance, a study by the International Labour Organization (ILO) found that agricultural entrepreneurship can provide up to 50% higher income for rural youth compared to traditional farming (ILO, 2020). In Africa, agricultural entrepreneurship has created over 1 million jobs for youth, with the potential to create up to 5 million more by 2030 (AFDB, 2020).
Digital Agriculture Services
Rural youth can provide digital agriculture services, such as precision agriculture consulting, drone-based crop monitoring, and mobile-based agricultural advisory services. According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), digital agriculture services can generate up to $1.5 billion in revenue annually in Africa (FAO, 2020).
E-Commerce and Market Access
AgTech enables rural youth to access global markets through e-commerce platforms, increasing their income and improving livelihoods. For example, the African Agricultural Transformation Initiative (AATI) has established an e-commerce platform connecting rural farmers to global markets, resulting in a 30% increase in income for participating farmers (AATI, 2020).
Agricultural Innovation Hubs
Rural youth can establish agricultural innovation hubs, providing incubation services, training, and mentorship to fellow youth. The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has established innovation hubs, supporting over 500 youth-led agricultural startups and creating up to 2,000 jobs (KALRO, 2020).
Skill Development and Employment
AgTech requires specialized skills, creating opportunities for rural youth to develop expertise in areas such as precision agriculture, data analysis, and digital marketing. According to a report by the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), AgTech can create up to 100,000 skilled jobs for youth in Africa by 2025 (CIAT, 2020).
Policy Support and Investment
To harness these opportunities, policymakers and investors must provide supportive policies, funding, and infrastructure. The African Development Bank (AFDB) has committed $1.5 billion to support AgTech development in Africa, while governments such as Rwanda and Kenya have established AgTech-friendly policies and regulations (AFDB, 2020).
OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO ADOPTION
Overcoming Barriers to Adoption: Enhancing Agricultural Technology Uptake among Rural Youth
Despite the potential of agricultural technology (AgTech) to transform rural youth livelihoods, several barriers hinder its adoption.
Infrastructure Challenges
Limited access to electricity, internet, and mobile networks hampers AgTech adoption. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), 50% of sub-Saharan Africa’s rural population lacks access to electricity (IEA, 2020). Similarly, the African Development Bank (AFDB) reports that 70% of rural Africa lacks access to internet services (AFDB, 2020).
Digital Literacy and Skills
Rural youth often lack the digital literacy and skills required to effectively utilize AgTech solutions. A study by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) found that 60% of rural youth in Africa have limited digital skills (FAO, 2019).
Cost and Affordability
AgTech solutions can be expensive, making them inaccessible to many rural youth. Research by the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) shows that 50% of rural youth in Africa cannot afford AgTech solutions (CIAT, 2020).
Policy and Regulatory Frameworks
Weak policy and regulatory frameworks hinder AgTech development and adoption. The African Agricultural Transformation Initiative (AATI) reports that 40% of African countries lack clear policies supporting AgTech (AATI, 2020).
Social and Cultural Barriers
Social and cultural norms can limit rural youth participation in AgTech. A study by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) found that 30% of rural youth in Africa face social and cultural barriers to AgTech adoption (IFAD, 2020).
Strategies to Overcome Barriers
To address these challenges:
Governments and industry players need to Invest in rural infrastructure development, including electricity, internet, and mobile networks. Implement digital literacy and skills training programs for rural youth. Develop affordable and context-specific AgTech solutions. Strengthen policy and regulatory frameworks supporting AgTech and promote social and cultural inclusivity in AgTech adoption.
Initiatives and Success Stories
Several initiatives have successfully addressed these barriers:
The African Development Bank’s (AFDB) $1.5 billion investment in rural infrastructure development.
The Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) digital literacy program, reaching 100,000 rural youth.
The International Centre for Tropical Agriculture’s (CIAT) affordable AgTech solutions, benefiting 50,000 rural youth.
The African Agricultural Transformation Initiative’s (AATI) policy support, resulting in 20% increase in AgTech adoption.
CONCLUSION
The potential of agricultural technology (AgTech) to transform rural youth livelihoods in Africa is vast. By leveraging digital solutions, precision agriculture, and innovative business models, AgTech can increase productivity, improve decision-making, and enhance market access.
However, overcoming infrastructure, digital literacy, cost, policy, and social barriers is crucial for widespread adoption. Strategic investments in rural infrastructure, digital skills training, affordable AgTech solutions, policy support, and social inclusivity can address these challenges.
The success stories and initiatives highlighted in this article demonstrate that AgTech can:
Create employment opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures
Improve agricultural productivity and income
Enhance decision-making and market access
Support climate-resilient agriculture
To realize the full potential of AgTech, stakeholders must:
1. Prioritize rural youth in AgTech development and implementation.
2. Foster public-private partnerships for infrastructure development and funding.
3. Develop context-specific AgTech solutions.
4. Strengthen policy and regulatory frameworks.
5. Promote digital literacy and skills training.
Together, we can unlock the potential of rural youth and AgTech, driving sustainable growth, poverty reduction, and food security in Africa.
Call to Action:
Let us join forces to:
Support AgTech initiatives and innovations
Advocate for policy and regulatory reforms
Invest in rural infrastructure and digital skills training
Empower rural youth to drive agricultural transformation
RECOMMENDATIONS
Policy Recommendations:
1. Governments should prioritize rural infrastructure development, including electricity, internet, and mobile networks.
2. Establish clear policies and regulatory frameworks supporting AgTech development and adoption.
3. Implement tax incentives and subsidies for AgTech startups and entrepreneurs.
4. Develop programs for digital literacy and skills training for rural youth.
Private Sector Recommendations:
1. Invest in AgTech research and development, focusing on context-specific solutions.
2. Collaborate with governments and organizations to develop affordable AgTech products.
3. Establish mentorship programs and incubation hubs for rural youth entrepreneurs.
4. Develop public-private partnerships for rural infrastructure development.
Civil Society Recommendations:
1. Advocate for policy reforms supporting AgTech adoption.
2. Provide training and capacity-building programs for rural youth.
3. Establish networks and platforms for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
4. Support AgTech entrepreneurship and innovation.
Development Partners Recommendations:
1. Provide funding and technical assistance for AgTech initiatives.
2. Support policy reforms and regulatory frameworks.
3. Collaborate with governments and private sector to develop sustainable AgTech solutions.
4. Monitor and evaluate AgTech impact on rural youth livelihoods.
Research and Development Recommendations:
1. Conduct studies on AgTech adoption and impact on rural youth.
2. Develop context-specific AgTech solutions.
3. Investigate emerging technologies (e.g., AI, blockchain) for AgTech applications.
4. Establish research partnerships between academia, industry, and governments.
Youth Empowerment Recommendations:
1. Develop youth-led AgTech initiatives and organizations.
2. Provide training and mentorship programs for rural youth entrepreneurs.
3. Establish networks and platforms for youth knowledge sharing and collaboration.
4. Support youth participation in AgTech policy development.
GHANA IN PERSPECTIVE
Ghana has made significant progress in agriculture, but challenges persist:
25% of Ghana’s population lives below the poverty line (GSS, 2020)
50% of youth are unemployed or underemployed (MoYC, 2020)
Agriculture contributes 20% to Ghana’s GDP, but productivity remains low (MoFA, 2020)
Taking climate action through agrifood systems presents a unique opportunity to address all at once multiple global and local challenges, making it imperative that actors around the world exchange their experiences and information to foster a world with better solutions for hunger and human resilience.
“Advancing climate actions through sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems,” a side event hosted by FAO, Azerbaijan, Italy the United Arab Emirates and the World Bank on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on Sunday, provided a platform for all Member States to present actions they have implemented to enhance their agrifood systems and to share their perspectives on what can be achieved at COP 29, the next international climate summit, and related fora.
“The science is clear,” said QU Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) in his featured intervention at the round table. “The consequences are evident.”
Qu emphasized how the climate crisis is already impacting agricultural production and productivity and undermining food security and rural livelihoods, noting that climate variability and extremes are one of the main drivers behind the current trends in global hunger, a scourge affecting more than 730 million people today. More than 40 percent of the world’s population is highly vulnerable to the impacts of the climate crisis, which demonstrably correlates to higher levels of undernourishment. “We must ensure that agrifood systems are fully integrated into national climate and biodiversity planning processes and strategies”, Qu added.
The challenges are inseparable and so are the solutions, the Director-General insisted, noting they lie at the core of FAO’s action plans and set out in the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-2031. He emphasized that transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable will require action in a host of areas ranging from livestock and the re-carbonization of soils to aquatic food value changes and ending deforestation.
Senior officials from various countries and institutions participated in the round table, which wrapped up with a presentation of the priorities for the upcoming COP29 to be hosted by Azerbaijan in November.
Qu hailed the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers, saying it “provides an important platform to foster collaboration for action and greater coherence”. He added that FAO was “pleased to host this initiative at its headquarters” as it would serve as an effective reporting mechanism from one COP to the next and focuses on FAO priorities such as empowering women farmers and youth.
New frontiers in Artificial Intelligence
Making sure the exciting prospects of Artificial Intelligence applications benefit smallholders is essential to achieving the best and most equitable agrifood systems transformation.
The UAE, which has committed sizable resources to the development of open-access platforms in this space, held another side event on Sunday devoted to “Agriculture in large language models (LLMs) and AI for smallholders.”
FAO Chief Economist Maximo Torero noted that FAO has already embedded AI in a number of digital capabilities and that it could bring even more positive results if used widely and for the right purpose, benefiting all rather than exacerbating current divides. FAO is a signatory to the Rome Call for Ethics in AI since early 2020.
In that regard, Foundation Models, which are large deep-learning neural networks trained on massive data sets that help data scientists develop machine learning models for specific tasks more quickly and cost-effectively, and can accelerate the accessibility of high-performance AI solutions in a wide array of sectors.
FAO is enthusiastic about Foundation Models for agrifood systems to leverage FAO’s technical expertise through AI models to generate public goods and services, especially for small family farmers, Torero said. This would be beneficial for research, digital advisory and extension services and policy making, he said.
Defining the roles and responsibilities of key actors in such a collaborative effort will be key, he added.
World Food Programme, through the Food Systems, in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation is embarking on a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening Ghana’s food systems with the goal of promoting increased value chains and generating employment opportunities specifically for the youth.
Over a projected period of five years, this program is designed to support 100,000 smallholder farmers while significantly reducing post-harvest losses and improving the income of these farmers.
This ambitious project was underscored during a graduation ceremony held at Ohawu Agric College on September 20, 2024.
The event celebrated the achievements of approximately 165 beneficiaries who graduated a six-week training program on Agricultural Engineering.
Speaking to Agric Today at the graduation ceremony, Stephen Odarteifio, the Food Systems Coordinator of WFP, Ghana, emphasized the importance of building the capacity of young people to guarantee economic freedom and sustainability.
He highlighted the striking contrast in practical skills acquired through targeted training compared to traditional university education.
“The skills you have acquired to manage agricultural equipment supersede those who have gone to university for four years,” Odarteifio noted.
He expressed his surprise at the disparity in practical training, stating, “it still baffles me as to how you can go through four years of university education, spending about 3,000 Ghana cedis on tuition every year and close to 10,000 Ghana cedis on food, yet not know how to operate a tractor.”
His comments shed light on the urgent need to reevaluate agricultural education in the country.
Odarteifio drew a comparison between medical professionals and agricultural engineers “a Medical Doctor who has studied medicine for about six years can operate on a human being, yet an agricultural engineer undergoes a similar length of study without the practical skills to operate essential machinery.”
He asserted that agricultural engineers are among the most underserved and underprivileged groups within Ghana’s workforce.
Recognizing the importance of practical skills, Odarteifio announced an investment initiative stating, “over the next two years, WFP Ghana, through the Food Systems Unit in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, will invest $100,000 in every agricultural colleges in this country.”
This investment aims to enhance the infrastructure and resources available for training future agricultural professionals, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges facing the sector.
Sitsofe Nutsukpui, the Director of Finance and Programs of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana reinforced the significance of the graduation ceremony.
He described it as a moment to celebrate not only the beneficiaries but the advancement of the agricultural sector as a whole.
“This ceremony marks not only the culmination of hard work and dedication but also the beginning of a new opportunities in the field of post-harvest mechanization,” he noted.
Nutsukpui articulated the Chamber’s mandate in fostering growth in the agribusiness sector, which is essential for creating substantial job opportunities for Ghanaian youth.
He acknowledged that post-harvest losses continue to pose significant challenges within the agricultural sector and the broader economy. By equipping the beneficiaries with the necessary skills and mechanization, the program addresses critical issues related to food security and livelihoods in Ghana.
Nutsukpui further shared that approximately 60% of the beneficiaries have already secured placements across fourteen regions within various agribusiness enterprises, marking a promising start to their careers.
In an interview with Agric Today Media, Ambrose Entsiwah Jnr., the Volta Regional Director of the National Service Authority commended the graduates for their achievements and underscored the value of training programs that provide practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
“Such training programs give the opportunity to experience the practical aspect of the theories,” he stated.
Entsiwah highlighted the necessity for beneficiaries to engage in a one-year mandatory National Service, positioning it as a means of mobilizing young people into the workforce effectively.
He reiterated the program’s objective of reducing post-harvest losses, urging graduates to enter the workforce with enthusiasm and a commitment to driving change in the agricultural sector.
The beverage industry is facing a severe threat from an influx of smuggled soft drinks, prompting urgent calls for government intervention.
The American Chamber of Commerce and the Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce have jointly issued a statement containing stark warning about the illegal importation of canned and PET (polyethylene terephthalate) packaged beverages into the country, citing grave concerns for both the economy and public health.
The illicit trade, which reportedly involves products from neighboring countries, is undermining legitimate manufacturers and depriving the government of crucial tax revenue.
This comes as revenue for that segment of the market is estimated to reach US$1.24 billion this year, according to data aggregator, Statista.
Of particular concern are Coca-Cola products, which the chambers claim are “among the most affected” by this smuggling operation.
Industry insiders reveal that these contraband beverages are often sold without the required tax stamps and at prices that significantly undercut the market, suggesting a sophisticated operation that bypasses customs duties, excise taxes, and other mandatory levies.
“The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) cannot verify the quality of these beverages, as they bypass established health regulatory processes,” the statement warned.
Moreover, the reputation of authorised dealers and franchisees is at stake. The chambers noted that these legitimate businesses “suffer reputational damage when inferior products are passed off as their own in the market.”
The scale of the problem appears to be nationwide, with the Chambers calling for action in major urban centers including Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi.
This widespread distribution network suggests a well-organised smuggling operation that has managed to penetrate key markets across the country.
In response to this growing crisis, the chambers are calling for a multi-pronged approach involving several government agencies.
They have urged the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), particularly its Customs Division, to “take decisive action to halt the smuggling of these PET and canned beverages.”
The chambers are also seeking intervention from the Food and Drugs Authority, local authorities, and market leaders to protect brands and preserve government revenue.
Additionally, they have appealed to the Ministry of Trade and Industry, through the Ghana International Trade Commission (GITC), to address what they term as “unfair trade practices.”
This call to action underscores the complex nature of the problem, which straddles multiple jurisdictions and requires coordinated efforts across various government bodies.
“It is imperative that all stakeholders collaborate to combat this issue effectively,” the chambers emphasised.
In light of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) , analysts say the situation highlights the challenges facing Ghana’s efforts to foster a competitive business environment and protect its growing manufacturing sector.
Ghana stands to lose approximately $50 million in revenue if the European Union (EU) enforces a ban on the export of vegetables and other produce from the country, due to the continued devastation caused by illegal mining activities.
The Vegetable Producers and Exporters Association of Ghana (VEPEAG) has expressed concerns over the severe consequences a potential EU ban would have on their industry.
In October 2014, the EU imposed a three-year ban on the import of gourds and Asian vegetables, including chillies and aubergines, to the union from Ghana, citing concerns over pest infestations that posed risks to the EU’s ecosystem.
This resulted in a revenue loss of approximately $30 million for Ghana. After an assessment by the EU’s Food and Veterinary Office, the ban was lifted. However, the Vegetable Producers and Exporters Association fears a repeat of this situation due to the ongoing pollution of water bodies used for irrigation, a consequence of illegal mining activities.
In an interview with the Association’s President, Dr. Felix Mawuli Kamasah urged the government to act swiftly to prevent further damage to the sector.
“We want to tell the government that they should quickly come out with a policy in terms of standard and quality and the measures we can put in place. This will enable us to secure what we are doing. Because when the ban is enforced, a lot of people will lose their jobs because most of the youth have a lot of interest in vegetable farming or agribusiness. With little knowledge we have, if the ban is enforced, what we are doing, we are looking around 50 million dollars which will be lost, “he noted.
VEPEAG also reaffirmed their commitment to join Organized Labour by the end of September in a demonstration against the government if no decisive policy is introduced to tackle the illegal mining menace.
“If the president does not come out with a policy by the close of the month, if we don’t hear anything from him, we will join the Labour people. This is because we work closely with the labour. We will join them for the demonstration because what we are telling the president is that he should come out like what he did to the COVID-19 issue.
