At the margins of the validation workshop of the Ten-Year CAADP Strategy and Action Plan (2026-2035), His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of Uganda held discussions with Her Excellency Ambassador Josefa Sacko the Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment of the African Union and her delegation. The African Union (AU) delegation led by Ambassador Josefa Sacko and accompanied by Honourable Frank Tumwebaze, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries of the Republic of Uganda met the president at State House Entebbe. The discussions, which was held 21-23 August 2024, focused on the preparations for Uganda to host the upcoming African Union Heads of State and Government Extraordinary Summit in Kampala, Uganda, from 9-11 January 2025.
The president welcomed Ambassador Sacko and the AU delegation to Uganda and expressed his profound gratitude for the opportunity to host the Summit. “This is music to my ears, and I am very happy to host this Summit. “We are ready to showcase Africa’s Agriculture potential and Uganda’s rich indigenous heritage in farming that forms a strong foundation for modernization and commercialisation of our Agriculture Sector”. The potential for agriculture in Africa remains huge and underexploited. In Uganda, our focus is to preserve of our indigenous agriculture like cows, goats, bananas, cassava, fish. among others” Museveni said.
H.E Amb. Josefa Sacko briefed the President on the progress made leading to the Extra-Ordinary Summit in January 2025, during which, the Kampala Declaration will be endorsed to succeed the 2014 Malabo Declaration. “Your Excellency, the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) has become an Agenda 2063 flagship programme and the pivotal framework for accelerating agricultural transformation across Africa. Following the Maputo Declaration in 2003, the Malabo Declaration, adopted in 2014, built upon the Maputo declaration, introducing substantial modifications and ambitious commitments. The 20 years of CAADP implementation has seen an increase in Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), average incomes, agricultural output and productivity, agricultural trade and agricultural investments as well as a significant reduction in hunger and poverty”
The Validation Workshop held in Kampala from 21-23 August 2024 reviewed, validated, and provided input into the Ten-Year CAADP Strategy and Action Plan that was prepared by the drafting team that met in Uganda from 05 to 14, August to produce a first draft. The initial inputs to the report were generated from the Validation Workshop of the Reports of the 13 Technical Working Groups that took place in Zambia, from 25 to 30 July ,2024.
The draft Ten-Year CAADP Strategy and Action Plan (2026-2035) will be finalized and presented to the AU Specialized Technical Committee (STC) on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment (ARDWE) in October 2024, and subsequently to the Heads of State and Government during the Extraordinary Summit in January 2025 in Kampala, Uganda.
The validation workshop was closed by Honourable Rose Namayanja a former member of parliament calling upon the African Union to ensure the summit draws participants from a wide range of stakeholders especially the youth and young people in Agriculture sector. “Our economies rely heavily on the agricultural sector which employs about 65% of the working population, of which 63% are youth. Most of these youth reside in rural areas where agriculture is the major economic activity and better still, they have great potential with their numeric strength and use of technology to advance the sector” she stated. “I therefore call upon the AU to organise a pre-summit youth forum to allow the youth to share knowledge, innovation and experiences that we can leverage on to transform our agricultural sector for future generations. This plan should also focus on retaining and supporting youth and their employment in the various aspects of the agriculture value chain.
The validation workshop consolidated stakeholder feedback and inputs into the draft Ten-Year CAADP Strategy and Action Plan (2026-2035) that also builds upon lessons learnt and leverages on evidence from the implementation of the Maputo and Malabo CAADP declarations Malabo CAADP declarations. Aligned with CAADP principles, the plan prioritizes stimulating investment, fostering partnerships, empowering vulnerable smallholders, and leveraging resources to drive economic growth, enhance food security, and improve livelihoods while addressing the impacts of climate change.
It also draws from the aspiration of Agenda 2063, the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan for Agenda2063 (2023-2034) and the CAADP Strategy and Action Plan incorporates insights from diverse experts while strategically adapting to address challenges to Africa’s food system transformation and takes into consideration emerging global trends. The CAADP Strategy and ten-year action plan will be presented to the AU policy organs at the Extra-ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government for adoption in January 2025.
For further information, please contact:
Dr. Godfrey Bahiigwa – Director of Agriculture and Rural Development Directorate (ARD) African Union Commission Email: BahiigwaG@africa-union.org
Dr Manyewu Mutamba – AUDA-NEPAD Senior Programme Officer, Food Security. Directorate of Agriculture, Food Systems and Environmental Sustainability. Email: Manyewum@nepad.org
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ms. Peace Lydia Mutuwa, Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, African Union Commission; Email MutuwaP@africa-union.org
Mr. Molalet Tsedeke, Information and Communications Directorate; African Union Commission Tel: 0911-630631; Email: MolaletT@africa-union.org
AIIDEV Africa is pleased to introduce the 2024 cohort of the Africa SDGs Mentorship Program, a seven-month fellowship that seeks to provide mentorship to young African professionals to enable them to become champions of sustainable development in their respective countries. The program is in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aims to empower the next generation of African leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to drive sustainable development across the continent. The goal of the Africa SDGs Mentorship Programme is to equip young African professionals to become champions of sustainable development in their respective countries.
The Africa SDGs Mentorship Program aims to address the gap in mentorship opportunities for young professionals in Africa, particularly those who are passionate about sustainable development. The program is justified by the need to build the capacity of Africa Youths and provide them with the necessary support to become changemakers and leaders in their respective fields. By pairing young professionals with experienced mentors, the fellowship program will help to address the skills gap and build a new generation of leaders who are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs in Africa.
Eligibility Criteria:
To participate in this program, please note the following criteria before proceeding with your application:
Applicants must be citizens of any African country between 25 and 40 years old.
Applicants must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any field relevant.
Applicants should have a minimum of two years of professional work experience in a field related to sustainable development or a demonstrated commitment to working towards the SDGs through volunteer work or personal initiatives.
Applicants must have a genuine interest and passion for sustainable development and a desire to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs in Africa.
Fellows should demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their respective countries and communities.
Fellows must be available to actively participate in the seven-month mentorship program, including attending training sessions, workshops, and mentorship meetings.
Applicants must be committed to fully engaging in the mentorship program, actively collaborating with their mentors and fellow participants, and completing all required program activities.
Applicants should have a good command of the English language, as the program will be conducted in English.
Applicants should have access to a reliable internet connection and necessary technology devices to fully participate in virtual activities and meetings.
Fellows may be required to provide references or recommendation letters from professionals or individuals who can attest to their qualifications, character, and commitment to sustainable development.
Benefits and Opportunities
The Africa SDGs Mentorship Program offers several benefits and opportunities for both fellows and mentors, including:
Fellows will have access to experienced mentors who can guide and support them in achieving their personal and professional goals.
Fellows will receive training and workshops in areas relevant to their interests and the SDGs.
Fellows will have the opportunity to network with other fellows and mentors and collaborate on sustainable development projects.
Mentors will have the opportunity to contribute to sustainable development in Africa by guiding and supporting the next generation of leaders.
Mentors will have the opportunity to share their expertise and experience with young professionals and contribute to their development.
NB: The Africa SDGs Mentorship Program will be conducted in English, and fellows must have adequate knowledge of the language. Applications not submitted in English will be disqualified. Selected applicants will be onboard and enrolled in the 7-month fellowship program starting in February 2025.
The application deadline for the 2024 cohort of the Africa SDGs Mentorship Program is January 31st, 2025 at 11:59PM (GMT+1). We encourage you to complete and submit this form before the deadline.
The Africa SDGs Mentorship Programme is a project of the AIIDEV Africa, a leading provider of development solutions in Africa, with the mission of innovating solutions to accelerate sustainable development.
President-elect John Mahama has expressed his deep passion for farming, stating that it remains central to his life and will be his primary focus upon retirement.
During a visit to his farm in Yapei and Busunu in the Savannah region, Mr. Mahama shared insights into his agricultural pursuits and his long-term plans.
“Farming is my life. I love it, and I’m sure if I didn’t go into politics, I would have been a full-time farmer,” he revealed.
“In any case, when I retire, after this stint, of course, I’m going to go into full-time farming. If you want to see me, you’ll have to come to the farm.”
The former president, who has diversified into crop farming and livestock, showcased his growing agricultural enterprise.
“We started with 300 goats and other small ruminants, and now we’ve grown to almost 500, with another 200 animals added recently. It’s looking positive,” he said, noting plans to expand into sheep and cattle farming.
On the crop side, Mahama’s farm produces maize and soybean, supplying directly to Asutuare farms for poultry feed.
He highlighted the challenges of balancing his political duties with his love for the land.
“This is not just a business; it’s a way of life for me. It’s therapeutic and fulfilling to work on the farm,” Mahama added, showcasing his dedication to agriculture as both a passion and a means of contributing to Ghana’s food security.
President-elect John Mahama has pledged to address the struggles of farmers across Ghana, drawing from personal experience on his Savannah region farm.
During his visit, Mahama outlined his vision to tackle the systemic issues that hinder agricultural productivity, including the lack of irrigation, poor access to spare parts for machinery, and inadequate support services.
“One of the major problems we faced this year was the drought,” he said.
“The rains stopped after we planted, and after germination, the crops—maize and soybean—struggled to take root.
“This is why we’re transitioning to irrigation. We’ve drilled five boreholes, and by next year, we’ll install a pivot system to ensure we can grow two crops a year instead of one.”
Mahama stressed the need for modern agricultural practices and support systems.
“We need to standardise equipment and ensure anyone selling agricultural machinery in Ghana offers after-sales services.
“Right now, one of my combine harvesters is down, and I can’t get the parts locally. If we wait for parts to come from abroad, bushfires will destroy the crops,” he lamented.
Calling for the establishment of farmer service centres, Mahama proposed a system where specialized agencies handle machinery operations and repairs.
“Farmers should focus on farming. My headache today shouldn’t be about fixing a harvester. My job is to procure seeds, fertilizers, and grow crops,” he emphasized.
Reflecting on the broader challenges faced by farmers, Mahama expressed his determination to make agriculture more sustainable and rewarding.
“Agriculture is not just an economic activity; it’s the backbone of our nation. As president, I will ensure that farmers have the tools, infrastructure, and support they need to thrive.”
25 July 2017, Nepal- People collecting forage to feed animals on the road between Kathmandu and Sandhikharka.
Nepal is one of the countries hardest hit by the impacts of climate change. Farmers are the worst affected. Poverty and impacts of climate change are pushing people to migrate. As part of the FAO-supported project - Reducing vulnerability and increasing adaptive capacity to respond to impacts of climate change and variability for sustainable livelihoods in agriculture sector (2015-2019) - some 3,000 farmers learn to grow crops that are better adapted to the impacts of climate change, and practice climate-smart and sustainable agriculture. Farmers test different varieties of crops and use different techniques to determine the best crops to grow for their land. They learn by doing. They also get support to raise animals by learning what and when to feed their animals. The project is made possible thanks to the support of the Global Environment Facility.
In a year of key Conferences of the Parties focused on the dimensions of the environmental crisis, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has shown how agrifood systems transformation can and must play a central role in addressing the interconnected challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, and food insecurity. FAO has championed a clear and consistent message across global forums: agrifood systems solutions are climate, biodiversity and land solutions.
Climate change exacerbates biodiversity loss and land degradation, impacting agricultural productivity and contributing to food insecurity. Unsustainable agricultural practices, in turn, drive deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and the loss of vital ecosystems. Breaking this vicious cycle requires urgent action. Investing in sustainable and resilient agrifood systems offers a powerful entry point for tackling these challenges in tandem.
This message has been at the core of FAO’ s engagement with key international fora in 2024 such as the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP29), the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP16), and the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16), which served as critical platforms for global dialogue and to pen down commitments.
“An alarming 40 percent of the world’s population is highly vulnerable to the climate crisis. Extreme weather events are one of the main drivers of hunger – with more than 730 million people living in hunger, along with food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms. Resilient agrifood systems and sustainable agricultural practices can offer solutions for the interlinked challenges of food, water, land and biodiversity”, said FAO Director-General QU Dongyu during the 76th UN General Assembly High-level week.
His consistent and coherent message throughout the year was that we need to produce more with less: we need to produce sufficient food to feed a growing population with less agricultural inputs and negative impacts on the environment that in the long run undermine food security and sustainable development. To achieve this, we need to ensure the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life – leaving no one behind.
From the halls of the United Nations to the fields of many of the over 190 member countries it supports through its technical assistance and expertise, FAO has showcased how resilient and sustainable agrifood systems can help us tackle the impacts of the climate crisis, protect biodiversity, and ensure everyone has access to safe and nutritious food. This is one of the core elements of the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31 and central to the implementation of the FAO Strategy and Action Plan on Climate Change.
Integrating agrifood systems into national agendas
FAO recognizes that translating global commitments into national action is crucial for achieving real progress in transforming agrifood systems to make them more sustainable and to adapt to a changing climate and it serves as the go-to organization for the professional expertise needed to do just that.
FAO works closely with countries to integrate resilient and sustainable agriculture and food security into their national plans, including supporting the development and implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for climate action (with an updated round expected by 2025) and National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs).
At the same time, FAO works to ensure the sustainable use of biodiversity, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and the integrated sustainable management of land, soil and water are integrated into national agricultural plans and practices. This dual entry point for action ensures that agrifood systems are positioned as a central component of national efforts to achieve sustainability goals.
At COP29 in Azerbaijan, FAO’s active engagement in the World Leaders Summit, high-level events, and in the negotiation rooms helped showcase the critical role of agrifood systems in tackling the climate crisis. FAO spearheaded a comprehensive program and released key publications highlighting the urgent need for increased and targeted investments in agrifood systems to drive sustainable transformation and climate adaptation.
FAO also presented a new analysis of NDCs, revealing food and agriculture gaps in mitigation, adaptation, and financing within national climate action plans, and highlighted that integrating agrifood systems into the next generation of NDCs would be essential for countries to meet the Paris Agreement goals.
At the international meeting, FAO also collaborated with the COP29 Presidency to launch the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers. This initiative, bolstered by the FAO-led Food and Agriculture for Sustainable Transformation (FAST) Partnership launched in 2022, will serve as a platform for COP to COP coordination of climate action through agrifood systems, and for empowering farmers as agents of climate action. FAO also led discussions at the Food, Agriculture and Water Day, showcasing solutions for financing, innovating and partnering for climate action through agrifood systems.
The Organization remains committed to supporting countries to access climate finance, to develop the next generation of NDCs with high ambition for climate action in agrifood systems and to implement their climate commitments, especially as they prepare for COP30 in Brazil in 2025.
In this context, FAO launched the Agri-NBSAPs Support Initiative, to provide targeted support to governments across agrifood sectors in order to accelerate the integration of agrifood solutions into biodiversity plans and their implementation and to achieve the KMGBF. FAO also played a vital role in discussions on Indigenous Peoples’ rights related to biodiversity and the use of digital sequence information (DSI) especially for genetic resources for food and agriculture.
In 2025, FAO will host at its headquarters in Rome the resumed session of COP16, which will be an important opportunity to underline the centrality of sustainable use of biodiversity and agriculture, and the need to provide financing and support that reaches rural and agricultural communities that depend on and are custodians of biodiversity.
While there is growing recognition of the importance of agrifood systems transformation for delivering on climate, biodiversity, and land degradation aspirations, plans, and commitments, ultimately it is national actions, supported by finance, technology, and capacity, that are vital for achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the Global Biodiversity Framework. FAO continues to work towards the full recognition of agrifood systems as key solution providers across the Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) and their inclusion in national plans.
Financing climate and environment action through agrifood systems transformation
Financing is key to turning these commitments and plans into reality, and FAO is cognizant that significant investment in agriculture is required as it is the window through which to address climate, biodiversity and land degradation challenges and for transforming global agrifood systems. In 2024, the organization actively leveraged its partnerships with key financing mechanisms, including the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), to channel critical resources towards this goal.
FAO has continued supporting countries in developing compelling initiatives and navigating the complexities of international climate and environment finance, ensuring that much-needed investment reaches projects that promote climate-smart agriculture, sustainable land, soil and water management, and biodiversity conservation.
For example, two landmark initiatives showcased by the FAO Director-General at COP29 were the GCF-approved funding for two transformative projects valued at $134 million, to support adaptation and enhance the climate resilience of vulnerable agricultural communities in Somalia and Iraq. These initiatives, spearheaded by FAO will empower millions of farmers and pastoralists to adapt to the escalating impacts of the climate crisis, including droughts, floods, and water scarcity in these two fragile countries.
Since partnering in 2016, FAO and the GCF have been scaling up climate investments in high-impact projects that make the agriculture, forestry and fisheries sectors more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable. Currently, the GCF portfolio that FAO has supported countries to access exceeds $1.3 billion.
Similarly, on the sidelines of UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, FAO co-launched the Food Systems Integrated Program (FSIP). The program will channel $282 million in GEF financing and an estimated $1.8 billion of co-financing in 32 countries towards global environmental benefits for biodiversity, land, and climate change, along with socioeconomic benefits of improved food security, nutrition, and livelihoods.
Among other highlights, in 2024, FAO also helped 28 countries to unlock $70 million in financing from the GEF to address urban sustainability, groundwater management, biodiversity loss, climate change and land degradation. The Fund also greenlighted 48 FAO-led projects worth about $2.9 billion that will play a pivotal role in fostering a sustainable agrifood systems transformation to end hunger and conserve the environment.
FAO’s active global GEF portfolio currently exceeds USD 1.4 billion, assisting more than 120 countries in projects that respond to local priorities, deliver global environmental benefits, and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Championing a Just Transition
FAO’s Unjust Climate report released in early 2024, called for a just transition to a climate-resilient future that prioritizes equity and inclusivity. The report quantified the disproportionate financial losses rural women face due to the climate crisis, highlighting their increased vulnerability compared to men, and emphasized intersectional impacts and empowerment solutions. This data-driven approach provides a powerful economic and social argument for increased investment in gender-responsive climate policies and programs that address existing inequalities and empower women in agrifood systems.
‘’Social differences based on locations, wealth, gender and age have a powerful, yet poorly understood, impact on rural peoples’ vulnerability to the impacts of the climate crisis. These findings highlight the urgent need to dedicate substantially more financial resources and policy attention to issues of inclusivity and resilience in global and national climate actions,” said FAO Director-General QU Dongyu.
FAO recognizes that the transition to sustainable agrifood systems must be just and inclusive, ensuring that no one is left behind. In 2024, the Organization actively promoted a just transition, emphasizing the importance of social equity and gender equality in shaping the future of food and agriculture. FAOs message clearly echoed in the high-level ministerial discussions on a just transition at COP29.
Showcasing success stories and promoting knowledge-sharing
To emphasize the importance of making commitments and walking the talk to transform agrifood systems, FAO has continued promoting solutions that offer multiple benefits across climate, biodiversity, land, and food security, while fostering rural development. A win-win for both people and the planet.
Throughout 2024, FAO has highlighted inspiring stories from around the world showcasing the tangible benefits of sustainable agrifood practices and emphasizing the crucial role of rural development.
For instance, in Colombia, FAO is championing rural development through various initiatives that contribute to climate mitigation and adaptation goals. These initiatives promote sustainable livelihoods while enhancing carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation through practices like agroforestry and sustainable livestock farming. By integrating trees into agricultural landscapes, farmers improve soil health, diversify their income, and increase their resilience to the climate crisis.
From restoring degraded land in the Amazon to helping farmers battle desertification in Africa, FAO has showcased how many of these solutions are already making a difference in people’s lives and contributing to a more sustainable future. By sharing these successes and promoting knowledge exchange, FAO aims to inspire further action and accelerate the global transition towards sustainable agrifood systems. (All stories here)
Another example of solutions in the nexus of climate and food and agriculture is embedded in the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) programme. In 2024, FAO recognized three new sites in Austria, Indonesia and Sao Tome and Principe. These sites showcase sustainable practices that contribute to climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and food security. By recognizing and preserving these heritage systems that now reach 86 in 26 countries, FAO aims to ensure a sustainable future for agriculture and the planet, safeguarding traditional knowledge and promoting sustainable practices. In 2025, FAO aims to reach 100 sites around the globe.By connecting global goals with local action, mobilizing critical resources, and promoting a just transition, FAO is helping to build a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient world for all. As we move forward, FAO’s continued leadership and collaboration with partners will be crucial in ensuring that agrifood systems play a central role in achieving a sustainable future for people and the planet, and in achieving the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all – leaving no one behind.
A consignment of government fertilizers intended for distribution to farmers has been intercepted in a two-storey building at Sokoban news site in Kumasi by the Joseph Yamin-led operation to recover all looted state prosperities in the Ashanti region.
The shocking discovery has prompted calls for accountability and further investigations from Joseph Yamin, the National Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Speaking to GHone New Ashanti regional correspondent Isaac Justice Bediako Yamin alleged that the intercepted fertilizers, meant to benefit farmers under government initiatives, had been hoarded and possibly diverted for private gain. “This is a serious issue. These fertilizers are supposed to be distributed to farmers to improve agricultural productivity, but here we are with evidence that they’ve been hidden in a private warehouse. The implications are worrying,” he said.
Yamin expressed concern over the systemic mismanagement of resources under the current administration.
He noted that the diversion of fertilizers not only deprives farmers of critical support but also raises questions about the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms in place.
“Fertilizers are crucial to boosting food production, especially in these times of economic hardship. If they are being hoarded or sold on the black market, then it is an attack on the livelihood of our farmers and food security,” Yamin said.
Allegations of Corruption and Cover-Up
Yamin did not mince words to link the incident to broader issues of corruption. He claimed that such acts of resource diversion are not isolated and often benefit politically connected individuals. “This isn’t the first time we have heard about government resources being misappropriated. We need to ask ourselves: Who owns this building? Who authorized the storage of these fertilizers here? And how long has this been going on?” he questioned.
When asked about the next steps, Yamin assured that the NDC would press for a full investigation into the matter. “We will push for accountability. This isn’t just about Kumasi or the farmers in this region; it is about the principle of governance and fairness. If people think they can get away with this, they are wrong. We will expose them,” he emphasized.
Impact on Farmers
Local farmers have expressed frustration over the scarcity of fertilizers in recent months, with many resorting to purchasing at inflated prices. The intercepted consignment in Sokoban further highlights the challenges farmers face in accessing government-subsidized inputs.
“I am not surprised. We’ve been complaining for a long time that the fertilizers meant for us are not reaching us. Now we know why,” a farmer in the region told GHone news.
Yamin Urges Vigilance
Yamin called on citizens, particularly farmers and community leaders, to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. “We must not remain silent. Farmers need to speak up, and those in charge of distribution must ensure transparency,” he said.
Authorities Remain Silent
Attempts to reach officials from the Ministry of Agriculture for comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
The discovery of hoarded fertilizers adds to growing public dissatisfaction with the management of agricultural resources. As investigations unfold, many hope those responsible will be brought to justice, and measures will be put in place to prevent a recurrence.
Kumasi, Ghana – The Emergency Support to Rural Livelihoods & Food Systems Exposed to COVID-19 (ESRF) Project is nearing its conclusion, prompting the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to organize a Closure Conference.
This event showcased the impactful initiatives undertaken and brought together officials, stakeholders, and beneficiaries from across the country.
The project alleviated, among other things, the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on 54,349 vulnerable smallholder farmers and food systems, across 48,886 households.
Dr. Hayford Baah-Adade, the National Project Coordinator for ESRF, remarked, “The exit conference was a critical moment to reflect on our successes and related plans. It is essential that the progress we have achieved is safeguarded, and that local institutions take responsibility moving forward.”
The project comprised three core components: combating hunger, strengthening rural marketing connections and food security, and ensuring effective project management with an ArcGIS system for monitoring and evaluation.
Key infrastructure improvements were made to facilitate farmers’ access to markets, enhance agricultural productivity, and improve post-harvest management, reflecting a holistic strategy toward food security.
At the conference, participants were briefed on the project’s key accomplishments, highlighting significant interventions like water harvesting systems, boreholes for drinking water, poultry farming initiatives, and the distribution of vital supplies such as fertilizers and quality seeds.
Additionally, a functional ArcGIS Monitoring and Evaluation System was established to promote transparency and accountability.
While celebrating its successes, the conference also fostered discussions on sustainability, emphasizing strategies for maintaining and expanding these achievements.
Key stakeholder institutions were identified to oversee these efforts after the program ends, underlining the necessity of continuing, replication and scaling up of interventions for community benefit.
Panel discussions featured representatives from the District Department of Agriculture (DDA), Ghana Irrigation Development Authority, Department of Feeder Roads, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Food Programme (WFP), each sharing insights from their collaboration with the ESRF Project.
Topics included the effects of digital marketing, agro-processing opportunities for women and youth, and the maintenance of critical agricultural infrastructure such as farm tracks and irrigation systems.
Attendees received a comprehensive report detailing all interventions and achievements, along with a video presentation that visually documented the project’s milestones and impacts.
The Closure Conference served as an essential platform for stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to supporting rural livelihoods and food systems, ensuring that the progress made is both preserved and enhanced in the future.
As Ghana confronts the intertwined challenges of the pandemic and climate change, this collaborative approach stands to strengthen food security and resilience for its most vulnerable populations.
Going into the 2024 election, major political parties in Ghana and independent candidates vying for the presidential position have vowed their commitment to improving agriculture in the country.
In a forum organized under the auspices of the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana, with support from STAR Ghana, under the Social Accountability in agricultural policy framework, in partnership with civil society organizations (CSOs) and other farmer organizations, a Political Parties Accountability Forum on Agriculture was held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel, Accra.
The major political parties, movements, and independent candidates made available representatives to speak on matters relating to agriculture in their manifestos, which they intend to implement when given the mandate in the coming elections.
The parties that had representation were the National Democratic Congress (NDC), New Patriotic Party (NPP), Movement for Change, and George Twum Barimah, an independent candidate.
Representing the National Democratic Congress was spokesperson for Agriculture/Director of Interparty & CSO Relations, Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor. The NDC spokesperson for Agriculture affirmed the party’s commitment to making the agriculture sector thrive.
He indicated that “As you may be aware, the NDC, knowing the importance of farmers and all other stakeholders, has set up a department that leads the relations of identifiable groups and so on”.
“So it’s our principle and our policy that moving forward, our implementation of the Resetting Ghana manifesto will be done in direct partnership with you (Farmers). And the PFAG is a significant part of the partners we (NDC) are going to leverage to implement our agricultural for economic transformation agenda.”
“We want to drive development in this country with agriculture, and we believe agriculture is the only sector that, when it grows, impacts both industry and the service sector. So we are going to put all our energies into this sector, to make sure agriculture works, food is available, the farmer becomes profitable, and the farmer is able to take care of himself and his family. Then we are also able to take care of the economy, build our economy, solidify our currency, and be able to compete on the global stage,” Dr. Otokunor further explained.
He highlighted major policies from the NDC manifesto on agriculture that the party will implement when voted into power. He affirmed that the NDC policy, dubbed agriculture for economic transformation, encompasses food availability, food affordability, food accessibility, and utilization of food.
He further noted that convenience is also another factor considered, which is where agro-processing comes in.
He reiterated that the NDC has farmers at heart and urged that coming December 7, all farmers should support the National Democratic Congress, so they can win the elections and offer farmers what is stated in their manifesto.
Speaking on behalf of the New Patriotic Party was a member of the party’s agriculture manifesto team, Moses Anim. He affirmed the commitment the party has for farmers.
He said, “On behalf of Bawumia, we commit to what we have presented as our manifesto. We commit to your interests as well and want to assure you (Farmers) that we will keep engaging with you, so that on implementation, it will be a guide or a reminder. So keep pushing us to ensure that we win.”
He explained their manifesto to the farmers and stakeholders gathered at the forum. He centered the party’s position on agriculture on mechanized farming and irrigation farming, which will help facilitate year-round farming, although he explained a series of policies in their manifesto.
Mr. Courage Nobi, the Deputy Director for Policy at the Movement for Change, also affirmed Alan Kyeremateng’s commitment to agriculture. He stated, “On behalf of Alan Kwadwo Kyeremateng, we commit to formulate agricultural policies based on the plan that we have, that will make the peasant farmer thrive, and will make agriculture attractive, leading to Ghana having food sovereignty. Any policy in the agricultural sector today that is inimical to the peasant farmer will be abolished to ensure a good environment that supports agriculture.”
He also explained the Movement’s policy on agriculture, centering their approach on improving agriculture by ending illegal mining within one year of assuming office. He highlighted that a country that cannot feed its citizens is not a sovereign state.
Independent candidate George Twum Barimah Adu was represented by his vice-presidential candidate, Mr. Nyaaba-Aweeba Azongo, who stated, “Agric for Wealth is our flagship policy. And Agric for Wealth being our flagship policy indicates that we are committed to farmers. We are not here to just present something on agriculture”.
“We don’t have a manifesto; we are guided by the directive principles of state policy, which is a legally binding document that mandates the president upon assumption of office to come out with a blueprint on agricultural development—not just a blueprint, but a planning framework that will allow all of you. We are saying that we are moving from changing the paradigm from planning for you to planning with you.”
He also touted their policies on addressing imbalances in agriculture and using agriculture as a mechanism to drive wealth for all.
Presenting the general overview of the current state of agriculture and its impact on smallholder farmers, the former Executive Director of PFAG, Dr. Charles Nyaaba, highlighted the food security situation in Ghana.
He said that according to the WFP, an estimated 1.05 million people faced acute food insecurity between June and August 2024, an improvement from the 2023 figure of 1.37 million people.
Additionally, Ghana’s food security situation is a mix of progress and ongoing challenges; although the country is self-sufficient in some commodities such as cassava, maize, peanuts, cabbage, millet, yam, and plantain, it still depends on imports for critical staples such as tomatoes, pepper, onions, rice, and poultry (MoFA 2024).
Moreover, in this year, Ghana imports about 70% of onions, costing US$2 million weekly, and 90% of fresh tomatoes, estimated at $400 million from Burkina Faso in 2023. In 2023, the country consumed 300,000 MT of poultry, valued at approximately US$400 million, with 95% of this supply being imported.
According to the Poultry Farmers Association of Ghana, this value is enough to address all the challenges in the poultry value chain.He also highlighted the challenges in the sector, stating that high production costs, including input costs, have increased by more than 30% (fertilizers and agrochemicals). Mechanization costs have also risen to about 30%, along with fuel and energy costs and non-availability of labor.
Other challenges include difficulty in accessing credit, limited irrigation (with a limited number of dams, siltation of existing dams, and poor construction of dams), poor implementation of government projects, the impact of illegal mining (galamsey), which has affected over 2 million peasant farmers, and the impact of climate change (unreliable rainfall patterns, drought, flooding on some occasions, and the emergence of pests and diseases).
Additional issues include poor market infrastructure (leading to high post-harvest losses of perishable commodities such as cabbage, watermelons, cassava, and plantain), a lack of commitment to agricultural development (evident through the removal of import duties on agricultural commodities, high taxes, and the high cost of doing business in the agricultural sector), and poor rural infrastructure (characterized by inadequate feeder roads in many farming communities, limited warehousing facilities, and high energy costs).
There is also limited support in research and development that promotes agricultural modernization.
Meanwhile, the Acting Executive Director of PFAG, in his opening remarks, affirmed the purpose of the forum: “It is our hope that by the end of this forum, farmers, input dealers, civil society, the private sector, and the general public will have had a clear understanding of the plans presented by these parties to help them make informed decisions on election day.”
The Catholic Church has declared it will not accept donations derived from proceeds of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey in Ghana.
This decision is part of broader sanctions aimed at addressing the involvement of church members in illegal mining activities.
Speaking at the Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops Conference, the President of the Bishops Conference, Most Rev Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, emphasised the Church’s firm stance on the issue.
He revealed that the Church is prepared to impose stricter sanctions, including denying Holy Communion to members who persist in illegal mining activities.
“We will not accept any donations that are the fruit of illegal mining. The sanctions will be tightened further even to the extent that if you openly engage in galamsey, after a series of advice and you persist in that dangerous activity, we may even refuse you Holy Communion,” he stated.
Most Rev Gyamfi stressed that the Church would issue warnings before imposing such sanctions but reiterated that any money from illegal mining would be rejected outright.
“We do not consider that the Lord will not accept such a gift, we will refuse it immediately. You will be warned and if you persist in it, other sanctions will come in,” he said.
Most Rev Gyamfi also called on the public to take an active role in combating illegal mining and protecting natural resources.
He urged local communities to prevent illegal miners from destroying their lands and polluting water bodies.
“The people should take it into their own hands to protect their land and should not allow somebody from somewhere to come and destroy their water.
“This whole thing that we are talking about – about the government doing this, is it the government that is polluting the water? It is even some of us in the local communities who are doing this galamsey. Then we say the government should come and save us from ourselves. No,” he added.
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomes a US$ 3.6 million contribution (over 58.3 million Ghanaian cedis) from the United States, and the United Kingdom to provide emergency food and nutrition assistance to 70,000 drought-affected people in northern Ghana.
The USAID and FCDO donations come at a critical time when food prices are at a record high, exacerbated by large-scale crop and livestock production losses due to extended weeks of reduced precipitation affecting significant areas in northern Ghana. The contribution will allow WFP to provide cash transfers to almost 70,000 Ghanaians, including minority groups, helping them meet their basic food and nutrition needs.
“With the staple food prices going up higher and out of the reach of the majority of families, this contribution is so timely. WFP is grateful for U.S. and U.K. Governments’ continued support to Ghanaian families in need,” said WFP’s Country Director and Representative in Ghana, Aurore Rusiga.
In Ghana, over one million people (around 3 percent of the total population) are estimated to be affected by severe drought in the eight of the 16 regions in Ghana including Bono, Bono East, Oti, Northern, North-East, Savannah, Upper East and Upper West. Most of the communities affected are struggling to access food due to price increases, weak financial capacities, low seasonal production and earlier than normal depletion of households’ food stocks.
In response, the United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and United Kingdom, through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), are joining forces with WFP providing 27 million Ghanaian cedis ($1.7 million) and 20 million Ghanaian cedis (USD 1.9 million) respectively to address the most acute needs of affected communities.
“This partnership represents our collective efforts to support Ghanaians during times of crisis,” said USAID/Ghana Mission Director, Kimberly Rosen. “The United States will continue to provide assistance to those who need it most, especially in climate-vulnerable countries like Ghana.”
“The UK, alongside the US and WFP, is providing critical assistance to protect thousands of families affected by the very serious impacts of the dry spell in Northern Ghana. We know that investments now can help protect families’ nutrition, their assets, and their ability to recover. We will continue to coordinate closely with the Government of Ghana’s own response, as well as with all efforts to build longer term climate resilience and food security”, said UK Development Director to Ghana, Richard Sandall.
The United States and the United Kingdom are among the largest donors to WFP Ghana having been supporting families across the country to fight hunger, improve their nutrition, and rebuild their lives.
