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Rainforest Alliance trains trainers on climate certification circle.

The Rainforest Alliance is an international non-profit organization working at the intersection of business, agriculture, and forests to make responsible business the new normal. They are building an alliance to protect forests, improve the livelihoods of farmers and forest communities, promote their human rights, and help to mitigate and adapt to the climate crisis across the globe. 

As part of the Alliance core mandate, they work with third-party authorized certification bodies (CBs) who provide auditing services for their certificate holders.

The organization additionally provides support to these certification bodies (CBs) and their auditors to be able to audit the Rainforest Alliance standard and add value to the auditor’s work which is a priority for the Rainforest Alliance team in Ghana and West Africa at large.

Speaking at 3-day training organized here in Accra which focused on Traceability, Assess and Address (A&A), Integrated Pest Management, Deforestation and Encroachment, and Auditing Ethics, Manager, Certification Partner Support for Rainforest Alliance, Leslie Adwoa Agyapong explained that the 2020 certification program introduces numerous innovations to ensure that certification is more context-specific and data-driven across cocoa growing communities and companies.

According to her, continuous improvement is a key mantra of the certification program and the Rainforest Alliance will continue to provide targeted training to authorized certification bodies operating in Ghana and Nigeria to foster improved audit quality.

“This year’s training was based on priority themes or topics for Ghana as well as the training needs assessment carried out by the Quality of Implementation (QoI) team in West Africa.

“The drive for these certification bodies training is to ensure that all auditors are updated and abreast with the Rainforest Alliance requirements before the commencement of the full certification and 2023/2024 audit season for 2023.

“We have systems in place to assess and address issues of child labor, forced labor, workplace violence and harassment, as well as discrimination.

“The Rainforest Alliance introduced the Assess and Address (A&A) system as part of their organizational tool.

“For it to function properly, we need to commit to eradicate human right abuses and communicate policies, procedures regarding human right abuses, assess their risk and implement mitigation measures at all levels of implementation within the supply chain and help remediate identified cases” she said.

Manager, Team Member Monitoring for Rainforest Alliance, Maurice Amooh, explained that as part of efforts to support their auditors to better assess the traceability system of certificate holders (CHs), their organization has developed a traceability monitoring and guidance tool to serve as a guide for auditors.

“The tool guides auditors on what to check and which traceability documents to prioritize during the audit.

“The tool is unique in that it’s the first of its kind to be used by auditors; it’s also the first time Rainforest Alliance is introducing such a tool to the certification bodies in Ghana” he mentioned.

The Officer, Standards & Assurance West and Central Africa for Rainforest Alliance, Dickson Baan, explained that this training will help to strengthen the CBs auditors and certifiers capacity in terms of RA’s new requirements and competence to deliver quality audits for the certification programme ahead of the full season.

“It helps forester’s closer collaboration with stakeholders, especially the CBs and their auditors who are Rainforest Alliance’s eyes in the field.

“I believe that with the auditor’s competence and confidence enhanced they are able to deliver quality audits which in turn strengthen and safeguard the credibility of the certification programme” he said.

Technical Lead, Africert Ghana, Helena Ampofo Onyame expressed her excitement about the Assess and Address (A&A) system introduced to auditors and certification bodies across the country.

“We believe that this Assess and Address (A&A) approach will make our work more meaningful and help us tackle these labour violations rather than hiding them.  

“With the introduction of the new EU deforestation regulation in cocoa growing regions, this training organized by RA was very timely for us and it would also help certificate holders on their journey to complying with the EU regulations.

“We recognize that sustainability is a long-term journey and to make all sectors truly sustainable, all supply chain actors have a role to play; that’s why we are very excited about these training and knowledge sharing sections” she said.

Chief Executive Officer, Smart Cert Ghana, Dr. Bernard Nsiah, said that the training has been an eye-opener for them as auditors and certification bodies because it has taught them to pay attention to traceability,  deforestation, and the social issues in their work as auditors.

“Being trained on Rainforest Alliance’s position on IMP and how they want IPM to be implemented and audited to the latter, was great” he said.

The discussion came at a time when actors within the value chain believe that the government must help to address low cocoa price concerns and poor living situations of cocoa farmers in Ghana and help guarantee them sustainable livelihoods.

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LIFESTYLE: The amazing health benefits of strawberries to the body.

Berries are beloved and strawberries are no exception. Not only do strawberries taste amazing, but they’re also full of antioxidants like vitamin C, as well as key nutrients like fiber and folate. 

Here are seven major health benefits of strawberries, plus simple ways to add more of the nourishing fruits to your diet. 

Full of Antioxidants

Strawberries are full of antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules present in the body and found in plant-based foods that counteract oxidative stress. Oxidative stress happens when there are more free radicals in the body but fewer antioxidants available to remove them. By reducing oxidative stress and tissue damage, antioxidants help reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases over time.

Strawberries contain multiple antioxidants, including anthocyanins (which give the berries their vibrant color) and vitamin C.

Support Immune Health

Just one cup of strawberries provides 100% of your daily vitamin C needs.3

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that supports the cells of the immune system. Research suggests that vitamin C promotes the proliferation of both T- and B-cells.4 T-cells and B-cells are white blood cells that help fight off disease-causing invaders, including viruses, bacteria, and even cancers.

Eating foods rich in vitamin C has also been associated with a lower risk of common health conditions like cataracts and cardiovascular disease.

Bolster Heart Health

The antioxidants found in strawberries support heart health as well. A large epidemiological study reported an inverse relationship between anthocyanin consumption and risk of heart attack among young and middle-aged women.

The researchers found that women who ate more than three servings of berries weekly had a significantly lower risk of heart attack compared to women who ate the fruits less frequently. 

It’s worth noting that observational studies cannot establish causation, and women who consume higher amounts of antioxidant-rich foods, like strawberries, may also be more likely to lead healthier overall lifestyles that reduce their risk of heart attacks.

May Protect Against Cancer

Strawberries’ high antioxidant content may help lower cancer risk. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, researchers suggest that the fruits’ natural antioxidants can minimize cancer-driven inflammation and inhibit the spread of cancer cells in the body.

Rich in Folate

Strawberries are a good source of folate, also known as vitamin B9. Folate is required for key reactions, including DNA synthesis and the breakdown of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. The B vitamin is also critical for healthy neural tube development during early pregnancy, which is why it is one of the most important nutrients in prenatal vitamins. 

Naturally occurring vitamin B9 that’s found in foods is called folate, whereas synthetic, or man-made, vitamin B9 (which is the type found in supplements) is called folic acid.

Just one cup of strawberries provides nearly 10% of your daily needs for folate.

Low in Sugar

Strawberries are relatively lower in the natural sugar fructose compared to other fruits. For example, whereas one cup of grapes can contain 23 grams (g) of natural sugar, one cup of strawberries provides about 7 g of natural sugar.

There’s no reason to vilify the natural sugars found in fruit, but if you’re looking to lower your sugar intake due to a medical condition such as insulin resistance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or type 2 diabetes, choosing lower sugar fruits like berries can be helpful

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World rice price index jumps to near 12-year high in July: FAO report

As reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the FAO All Rice Price Index witnessed a 2.8 percent escalation in July compared to the preceding month, with an average value of 129.7 points. This reflects an approximate 20 percent surge from the same period in the previous year and marks the most elevated level observed since September 2011.

Factors affecting the increase in rice prices

The escalation in rice prices is being propelled by various factors, including:

  • Robust rice demand is among the key drivers behind the increasing rice prices.
  • An additional factor is India’s recent decision to limit exports, causing a reduction in the global rice supply.
  • Unpredictable weather patterns in certain rice-producing nations have resulted in diminished yields, exacerbating the supply shortage.

Impending Impact of Rising Rice Prices on Global Food Security

The escalating cost of rice is poised to exert a substantial influence on food security across numerous nations. Rice stands as a fundamental dietary item for millions of individuals worldwide, and the elevated prices could create challenges in affording this vital nourishment.

Global Rice Trade Dynamics: Exporting and Importing Nations with Focus on India

  • Countries such as India, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Pakistan are prominent rice exporters, whereas China, the Philippines, Benin, Senegal, Nigeria, and Malaysia play a crucial role as rice importers.
  • In the fiscal year 2022-23, India’s exports of non-basmati white rice amounted to USD 4.2 million, a notable increase from the previous year’s USD 2.62 million. Noteworthy destinations for India’s non-basmati white rice exports encompass the US, Thailand, Italy, Spain, and Sri Lanka.

About Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

  • The Food and Agriculture Organization serves as a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to spearheading global initiatives aimed at eradicating hunger and enhancing both nutrition and food security.
  • The FAO consists of 195 members, which encompass 194 nations along with the European Union. Its headquarters is located in Rome, Italy, and it oversees various regional and field offices globally, functioning across more than 130 countries.
  • Additionally, it conducts research, delivers technical support for projects, organizes educational and training initiatives, and gathers data on agricultural output, production, and development.

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5 ways to prevent powdery mildew on tomato plants

Tired of that powdery mildew on those tomato plants every season? Don’t worry, there are a few ways to save those plants before the fungus spreads!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  •  Spacing tomato plants 2 to 4 feet apart and pruning low-hanging leaves can help prevent powdery mildew by increasing airflow and decreasing moisture.
  •  Using conventional fungicides every 7 to 14 days before infection occurs can help prevent the spread of the fungus on tomato plants.
  •  Constant air circulation, achieved through staking and tying tomato plants, can help kill the fungus and prevent powdery mildew from developing and spreading.

When the warm season rolls around, gardeners already have an idea of the fruit and vegetables they want to grow throughout the spring, so they’re ready for harvest by summer. One of the more popular fruits to grow are tomatoes. Because of their bountiful harvest, tomatoes are the perfect first crop to grow at home.

The downside to growing tomatoes is that they’re victims of powdery mildew that coats the skin or attacks the leaves. This mildew is a fungus, and because fungi love humidity and a moist environment, tomatoes can be affected as the fungus travels via the soil or wind.

The fungus starts as yellow spots on leaves before turning white (looking like baking flour). Plants that are stressed and aren’t taken care of properly are more susceptible to getting this fungus, but is there a way to protect home-grown tomatoes and keep the fungus at bay? Yes! There are a few easy ways to keep that evil mildew away.

Space and Pruning

The best way to prevent the white powdery mildew on tomato plants is to start at the beginning when planting. Because this fungus enjoys humidity and close quarters, spacing tomato plants about 2 to 4 feet apart is best. By spacing them 2 feet apart – and rows 4 feet from each other — the plant gets more natural light (at least six to eight hours of full sun) and oxygen. Therefore, decreasing moisture and powdery mildew.

Once the tomato plant starts growing branches and sprouting leaves, it’s important to focus on the foliage closest to the soil. Because fungus cells start in the soil, the spores can easily attach to low-hanging foliage or branches. By pruning the low-hanging leaves, it decreases the chances of the fungus growing up the plant.

Conventional Fungicides

If a gardener needs help keeping the white mildew away from their plants, choosing conventional fungicides can be prudent. Fungicides will not cure a plant after its infection, but a gardener can prevent disease by spraying fungicides every 7 to 14 days before the likeliness of illness begins.

Before buying a fungicide, make sure that it’s safe for tomatoes and follow the instructions for how much fungicide to spray. When tomato plants are 10 to 12 inches tall, spraying the fungicide is encouraged. While gardeners can spray the fungicide on the plant, they can also mix it with one gallon of water for better coverage. You can continue spraying the plant throughout the growing season (March through September). Spraying the fungicide before infection occurs is the best way to avoid it altogether.

Improve Air Circulation

To kill the fungus, tomato plants need constant air circulation. Circulating air can start as early as planting the seeds. By staking the plant, it will have enough space from other plants for air circulation and the ability to grow, and it won’t be too low for the soil to be compromised by disease.

Using a stake, a gardener should place it about 6 to 12 inches into the ground before tying the plant loosely to the stake. As the plant grows taller, continuing to tie it to the stake will make space for ventilation, while the plant gets ample sun (at least six hours a day) and space from other plants. Proper airflow will help keep powdery mildew from developing and spreading.

Get Rid of Diseased Plants

To ensure the white mildew on tomato plants doesn’t spread, it’s best to get rid of the infected plant. Moisture on leaves only helps spread the spores more. If fungicides weren’t used or the mildew spread too rapidly, it’s best not to eat the tomatoes and destroy the plant before the mildew rips through the garden.

Dig the tomato plant out of the soil and toss it in the garbage or burn it instead of composting it. Composting the diseased plant only further spreads the disease into whatever is being composted, thus infecting new soil before a tomato plant can even get started safely.

Try Approved Natural Oils

Multiple different fungi diseases can infect tomato plants. If the powdery mildew is in small amounts and hasn’t infected the entire plant, horticultural oils can be the way to go. Oils like Saf-T-Side Spray Oil, neem, or Sunspray Ultra-Fine Spray Oil can be a huge help. It should be noted that oils shouldn’t be applied if the plants are in distress from heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit or are in a drought.

The oil can wind up burning the leaves when interacting with the sun, thus stressing the plant all the more. The best time of day to apply oils like neem is at dusk or early evening to avoid possible burns.

While Saf-T-Side Spray and Sunspray Ultra-Fine Spray should be used as directed, natural oils like neem and jojoba differ. If using neem (which can also defer insects), gardeners can add 2½ Tbsp. per gallon of water and spray the plant and the soil every 7 to 14 days. It’s important to remember the undersides of the leaves as well!

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Tema MESEC committee to present report on death of two fishers on Friday.  

The five-member committee investigating the circumstances leading to the death of two fishers has said the report on the inquiry will be ready on Friday, August 11, 2023. 

Continue
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10 foods that are marketed as healthy but are actually bad for you.

In a world where everyone strives to be healthy, it’s easy to be fooled by clever marketing tactics that make us believe certain foods are good for us. Unfortunately, not everything labeled “healthy” is good for our health. Join us as we uncover ten unhealthy foods that have successfully disguised themselves as nutritious choices.

1. Fruit-Flavored Yogurt

Fruit-Flavored Yogurt
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Yogurt, a staple in many people’s diets, can be a nutritional powerhouse. However, fruit-flavored yogurts often harbor high amounts of added sugars, turning them into sweet treats rather than healthy snacks.

In the long run, eventually, you might learn that high sugar level is capable of causing concern in terms of higher blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. It’s best to opt for plain yogurt and add fresh fruit for a truly nutritious option.

2. Veggie Chips

Banana chips
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Veggie chips may sound smart, but don’t be fooled by the name. You might even see such labels as “health halo” on some of their packets to formally have you fooled that they genuinely have the value of fresh veggies.

Despite containing small amounts of vegetable powder, most veggie chips are still deep-fried and loaded with unhealthy fats and excessive salt. Instead, reach for fresh veggies or air-popped popcorn as healthier alternatives.

3. Granola

Freshly made homemade granola on a baking sheet. Granola in a wooden spoon and in a jar. Selective focus. Healthy diet concept. Keto diet.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Granola has gained a reputation as a healthy breakfast or snack option. However, many store-bought granolas contain added sugars, oils, and artificial additives. You already know what excess sugar is capable of.

Excess oil and artificial additives can be just as harmful. Our advice? Read the labels carefully before purchasing from the store, or better still, make your own granola using whole grains, nuts, and a touch of natural sweetener.

4. Smoothies

Blond young woman enjoying her green smoothie drink outside on terrace at sunset.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Smoothies can seem like a refreshing and nutritious choice, but be cautious. Pre-made or store-bought smoothies often contain excessive added sugars, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats. There is nothing, in fact, original about them.

To enjoy a healthy smoothie, make it at home with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a protein source like Greek yogurt. Entirely avoid those spills at the store.

5. Energy Bars

Young brazilian woman eating granola bar standing over isolated white background happy with big smile doing ok sign, thumb up with fingers, excellent sign
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Energy bars are marketed as a convenient and healthy snack option for busy individuals. They say such things as “eat to be energized” to enable you to work for longer hours nonstop. Sadly, many of these bars are loaded with sugars, refined grains, and artificial ingredients.

I’m not asking that you entirely forgo them, but look for bars with minimal ingredients, natural sweeteners, and a good balance of protein and fiber.

6. Gluten-Free Products

multicolor gluten-free pasta with ingredients in bowls in the form of hearts from which it is made on a stone table
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Gluten-free has become a popular buzzword, leading many to believe that gluten-free products are automatically healthier. However, gluten-free alternatives often contain refined flour, added sugars, and unhealthy additives to compensate for the lack of gluten.

You get the whole gist now, don’t you? If you don’t have a gluten intolerance, choose whole-grain options instead.

7. Low-Fat Salad Dressings

Plate of homemade fresh salad with buttermilk ranch dressing, tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage and carrots served over a white wooden table. House Salad.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Salads are a go-to for health-conscious individuals. You feel you need to watch your weight, for example, and the first advice for diet options you’re given is “do salads.” That’s not bad advice, but be wary of low-fat salad dressings.

These dressings often compensate for the reduced fat by adding excessive amounts of sodium, sugar, and artificial additives. It’s healthier if you can go for homemade dressings using olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for a healthier choice.

8. Fruit Juice

Bangkok Thailand , Apr 2023 , Malee UHT Fruit Juice on shelf in Supermarket
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Once, someone referred to a glass of fruit juice over dinner as a “glass full of sugar,” and thinking about it now, I don’t think they were wrong. Fruit juice may seem like a natural choice for a vitamin boost, but it can be a deceptive source of hidden sugars.

Most packaged juices lack the fiber in whole fruits, leading to a concentrated dose of sugar. Enjoy whole fruits instead, and if you crave juice, make it fresh at home.

9. Protein Bars

Young beautiful girl holding healthy protein bar standing over isolated yellow background very happy pointing with hand and finger
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

These were my favorite things until I learned they are a sneaky candy bar substitute. Whether or not you agree, protein bars are often marketed as a nutritious option for athletes or as meal replacements.

However, many protein bars contain high amounts of sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients. Be cautious and look out for bars with a good balance of protein and fiber.

10. Low-Calorie Snacks

Los Angeles, California, United States - 05-05-2023: A view of a hand holding a package of Corn Nuts Original, on display at a local grocery store.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Snack foods labeled as low-calorie may seem like a guilt-free indulgence but don’t be deceived. These might taste nice and appear to be what it poses to be. Still, most often compensate for the reduced calories by adding artificial sweeteners, unhealthy additives, and refined ingredients.

A better option for you should be whole foods like fruits, vegetables, or a handful of nuts for a truly nourishing snack.

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Focus on quality and processing to boost export earnings – cashew farmers urged.

The Jaman North District Director of the Department of Agriculture, Victor Yao-Dablu, has advised cashew farmers to refocus attention on quality and value addition to boost export earnings.

This, he believes, will help create more jobs for Ghana’s fast-growing population.

He said for every amount earned in the export of raw cashew nuts, the country would have made much more if processed nuts were exported.

Mr Yao-Dablu, who suggested this in an interview with JoyNews’ Nestor Kafui Adjomah, urged the farmers to emulate what the Asia continent is doing concerning value addition.

‘‘We are not maximising the potential of the cashew crop in terms of job creation and revenue generation because we are not adding value,’’ he emphasised.

He further called on farmers to take advice from the Agricultural Extension Agents (AEA) to dry their Raw Cashew Nuts (RCN) under shade to have high-quality nuts to sell instead of drying them in the sun and storing nuts in jute sacks.

The Jaman North District Director of Agriculture noted that if actors in the cashew value chain concentrate on increasing value addition, 50 per cent more jobs could be created owing to the multiplier effects.

However, he stated that despite the potential for growth in the sector, several challenges including limited access to finance and abuse of agrochemicals, are hindering the rapid development of the cashew industry.

Mr Yao-Dablu urged agriculture civil society groups to work with actors across the cashew value chain to boost the production of quality cashew nuts in the country.

“Bono Region is virtually leading in the production of cashew nuts, but to be competitive enough, we need to produce quality cashew because we now have competitors in Asia who are producing more with better quality,” he explained.

He noted the link between the farmers and processors should be well-tightened so that they can collaborate effectively to ensure that quality for processors to buy at the right price.

“With this, the cashew value chain in the Bono Region will succeed and be sustainable,” he added.

A merchant in raw cashew nuts from the Tain District, Solomon Ameyaw, said cashew has become an important export commodity for the country’s economy, adding that Africa produces over 50 per cent of the nuts consumed globally.

He noted that ”to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of our cashew, we must add value to the cashew nuts because when we export raw cashew nuts, we are exporting our jobs out of Ghana’’.

Mr Ameyaw added that raw cashew nut production and processing are essential economic activities, providing livelihoods for several smallholder farmers, youth and women in the Bono Region.

He explained that “while the industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, challenges such as price volatility, unstable policies, inconsistent quality, environmental impacts and unstable policies among others are still critical issues unresolved’’.

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Seeds, the foundation of the foods system.

Our food system’s hidden heroes are seeds. They are little, yet they have enormous power and promise. They are the foundation upon which our entire food supply is built.

Seeds serve a critical role in guaranteeing food security, fostering biodiversity, and preserving the lives of millions of farmers in Ghana, a country known for its agricultural traditions.

Seeds are more than simply tiny capsules that sprout into plants; they are living containers. They contain the genetic information that determines crop traits, attributes, and yields. Farmers’ seed selection has a substantial impact on the production, hardiness, and nutritional value of the food we consume.

In Ghana, where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, choosing and using the right seeds is critical. Access to high-quality seeds that are suited to local conditions and resistant to climate change is critical. These seeds are resistant to variable weather patterns, pests, and diseases, allowing farmers to produce constant and reliable harvests.

Furthermore, seeds have the potential to increase the diversity of our food chain. Ghana has a diverse range of traditional and indigenous crops that have fed its people for years. These crops, which are frequently cultivated from traditional seeds, have high nutritional content have been improved over time and are well-suited to local climates and soils. We can protect our cultural history, preserve traditional knowledge, and strengthen the resilience of our food system by encouraging the planting of the various improved seed varieties.

To fully realize the potential of seeds, it is critical to invest in research and development. Collaborations among scientists, farmers, and seed breeders can result in the production of superior seed types with high yields, nutritional value, and durability. These activities can help to improve crops, promote sustainable agriculture, and solve farmers’ evolving challenges.

Equally crucial are capacity-building projects that teach farmers on the significance of quality seeds and equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively handle, store, and conserve seeds. Farmers must understand the value of utilizing certified seeds that have passed thorough quality testing to ensure their dependability. Farmers can enhance yields, reduce crop losses, and increase income by implementing such measures.

Furthermore, it is necessary to build strong seed systems and infrastructure. Ghana should prioritize the establishment of seed processing and storage facilities, as well as quality control and certification processes. These programs will provide farmers with genuine, high-quality seeds that are free of contamination or adulteration. Furthermore, efforts should be made to develop seed delivery networks, particularly in rural regions, to ensure farmers have easy access to the seeds they require.

Women, who make up a sizable component of Ghana’s agricultural workforce, should be prioritized in seed-related projects. Providing information, resources, and access to excellent seeds to women farmers can lead to increased agricultural output, income generation, and gender equality.

Farmers’ organizations, community seed banks, and seed cooperatives all play important roles in seed conservation and exchange. These efforts promote group action, knowledge sharing, and the conservation of local seed diversity. Ghana can foster seed sovereignty and enable farmers to become active participants in creating the future of the country’s food system by supporting and strengthening these community-based seed systems.

Seeds are the cornerstone of our food system, not merely a means to an end. Ghana can construct a resilient and sustainable food system that assures food security, protects biodiversity, and supports the well-being of its people by recognizing their importance, promoting seed diversity, investing in research and development, and improving seed systems.

Let us celebrate the modest seed and recognize its critical role in feeding our nation. Let us sow the seeds of a brighter, more sustainable future for Ghana’s food system together.

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Food vendor arrested for selling rotten chicken

Half rotten chicken. Isolated on white background.

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has apprehended a food vendor at the OA Bus Terminal in Accra, for selling contaminated food to the public.

The AMA in a communique revealed that the vendor by name Faustina Naana Eshien was arrested on Tuesday after it was revealed that she had been selling rotten chicken to customers.

The assembly noted that the arrest was necessitated after “a Facebook post by Obaa Yaa Bediide on the TroTro Diaries page about the discovery when she purchased from the vendor who admitted the offence and decided to split the GHC20 cost of the chicken into two citing low patronage.”

According to the Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, Mr. Gilbert Ankrah, the food vendor was apprehended for selling rotten fried chicken for public consumption and failing to obtain medical health certificate after the news broke on social media about her activities.

This, he noted, goes contrary to the AMA bye-law and the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), Section 100(3) which prohibits a person from selling or offering for sale food that is unwholesome or unfit for human or animal consumption and consists in whole or in part of a filthy, putrid, rotten, decomposed or diseased animal or vegetable substance. 

The food vendor is expected to be arraigned before a court for prosecution.

The AMA hopes this action would serve as a deterrent to would-be offenders. 

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It is key to identify the contributions and the values of the small scale producers in the global market.

The Fair Trade Ghana Network (FTGN) in collaboration with Small Producer Symbols (SPPs), a Fair-Trade Label with its headquarters in Mexico and operating globally in over twenty-five (25) producing countries organised a day’s event in Ghana to build local and global markets that value the identity, economic, social, cultural and ecological contributions of products from Small Producers’ Organizations.

The Small Producers Symbol (SPP), is a label that represents an alliance among organized small producers to build a local and global market that values the identity and the economic, social, cultural and ecological contributions of p

The Fair Trade Ghana Network (FTGN) in collaboration with Small Producer Symbols (SPPs), a Fair-Trade Label with its headquarters in Mexico and operating globally in over twenty-five (25) producing countries organised a day’s event in Ghana to build local and global markets that value the identity, economic, social, cultural and ecological contributions of products from Small Producers’ Organizations.

Target
This alliance is based on a relationship of collaboration, trust and co-responsibility among women and men who are small producers, with buyers and consumers.

The SPP represents the identity of organized small fair trade producers, to distinguish them in local and global markets with their products and values.

The event which took place in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region is the first of its kind in Ghana and was aimed at introducing, sensitizing, and discussing with selected cooperatives about the Label and its benefits to those in the Agriculture Value Chain.

The event brought together a total of thirty-five (35) participants from the cocoa, rice, shea, fruits and food crops value chain including representatives from two key stakeholders namely Department of Cooperatives, Ghana, and the Agronomists and Veterinarians without borders (AVSF) grace the occasion.

Presentations
Coordinator of Fair Trade Ghana Network (FTGN), Felix Ayambire, in his address, mentioned that FTGN has a membership-based platform of certified Fair Trade organisations from the Flocert-Fairtrade, Ecocert-Fair for life, and World Fair Trade Organisations.

He explained that members of the Network operate in various sectors including the Art & Crafts, Cocoa, Fruits and Nuts (Mango, Pineapple, Cocoa, Oranges, Banana, Citrus) value chain.

“The Network harmonises and brings together member cooperatives under one umbrella for the purposes of markets, trainings on sustainable production practices, advocacy, gender, leadership management, entrepreneurship development” he mentioned.

The West African Coordinator of Small Producer Symbols (SPP’s), Koffi Djade who was the lead facilitator explained the benefits and importance of building a local and global market that values the identity and the contributions of products from Small Producers’ Organizations.

He stated that the SPP is an intercontinental network of ecological small-producer organizations that was created to give small producers across the globe a level of value and proper identity in the Fair trade system.

“The Small Producer Symbols (SPPs) Global was born in 2006 as a result of a historical process of capacity building and self-empowerment of small Producer organizations.

“In partnership with committed companies, consumers and legitimized by independent certification, SPP fight for the recognition of producers work and high-quality products, a dignified life, and a healthy planet for all.

“SPP has its own, widely recognized system of standards and sustainable prices, reflecting the reality of small producers. The SPP Standards are backed up by an independent certification system which grants security to producers, consumers and traders across the globe.

“Presently, the label has 125 small producer organisations across twenty-five (25) countries with sixty different products” he mentioned.

About SPPs
SPP is an intercontinental network of ecological small-producer organizations. In partnership with committed companies and consumers and legitimized by independent certification, we fight for the recognition of our work and high-quality products, a dignified life, and a healthy planet for all.

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