Global Affairs Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to continue it partnership with Agrihouse Foundation in advancing, empowering and improving women farmers and farmers with disabilities’ access to resources, tools and opportunities ahead of the fifth Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) and Gold in the Soil Awards.
This partnership highlights a strong dedication to sustainable practices and the advancement of women in agriculture, signifying Global Affairs Canada’s continued involvement over the past five years.
Madam Candace Holt, Second Secretary of Development for Global Affairs Canada, expressed her pride in the long-standing partnership with Agrihouse Foundation. She emphasised the significant strides made in driving positive change within the agricultural sector and providing vital support to women farmers and women across agribusiness value chain.
‘’While the agriculture sector can be a challenging sector for everyone to work in, with many risks associated with unpredictable weather patterns and rising costs of inputs, many barriers exist specifically for women in this sector, which their male counterparts do not face to the same extent. It is this barrier constraining women farmers and women in agribusiness that we hope to see given due attention to help ensure that both males and females are given the same help and support needed,’’ she remarked.
The annual WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards have evolved into an initiative that celebrates and recognises the remarkable achievements of women in agriculture by inspiring others to pursue excellence, foster knowledge exchange, and promote collaboration within the agricultural community.
Beyond financial assistance, Global Affairs Canada supports Agrihouse Foundation to provide technical expertise, capacity-building programmes, and initiatives aimed at breaking down barriers hindering women farmers and farmers with disabilities from reaching their full potential.
This collaborative effort has significantly enhanced post-production activities by granting women access to technology, equipment, financial services and also increase access for women and youths to agricultural extension services.
Global Affairs Canada also provides support to Agrihouse Foundation’s production team as they travel from district to district in the Volta, Ashanti, Upper East, Upper West and Western Regions to document the exceptional work of our women farmers. This year, they are extending their support to cover 33 districts in the Eastern Region.
The WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards have emerged as a vital platform for recognising and celebrating the accomplishments of women in agriculture. These initiatives not only showcase excellence, but also inspire others to strive for similar achievements.
The programme also facilitate knowledge-sharing and collaboration within the agricultural community, promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
Madam Candace Holt expressed her unwavering confidence in the continued success and impact of the WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards. She reaffirmed Global Affairs Canada’s commitment to supporting Agrihouse Foundation and its initiatives, recognising its transformative potential and alignment with global development goals.
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, highlighted the remarkable results achieved through the partnership between Global Affairs Canada and Agrihouse Foundation over the past five years. This collaboration has driven positive change in the agricultural sector and provided essential support to women across the agriculture value chain.
“Moving forward, Agrihouse Foundation remains deeply committed to our partnership with Global Affairs Canada. We are confident that our continued collaboration will lead to even greater achievements in empowering women in agriculture, fostering sustainable practices, and creating lasting impacts within the agricultural sector,” she added.
This collaboration sets a powerful example for promoting sustainable agriculture, recognising excellence, and empowering women farmers not only within Ghana, but also on a global scale.
Global Affairs Canada’s dedicated efforts to empower women farmers in the agriculture sector are poised to create a lasting impact. With comprehensive support, collaborative partnerships, and the celebration of remarkable achievements, women’s contributions to the agricultural landscape are receiving the recognition they deserve.
Through the partnership, Global Affairs Canada and Agrihouse Foundation have made remarkable progress in empowering women farmers and promoting gender equality.
By supporting over 5,000 beneficiaries , Global Affairs Canada has made a tangible impact, resulting in transformative outcomes – women farmers have experienced increased incomes, reduced drudgery in processing activities, poverty reduction, enhanced participation in decision-making processes, improved social status within communities, increased savings, and the ability to meet educational and medical expenses.
These initiatives have also empowered women to expand their entrepreneurial ventures, access extension services, and improve both their yields and incomes. Remarkably, some groups have undertaken corporate social responsibility projects, such as constructing schools and other vital community facilities.
Global affairs Canada, through the WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards, have effectively celebrated the achievements of women farmers and persons with disabilities (PWDs), highlighting their significant contributions to Ghana’s agricultural sector and development agenda. Recognising the indispensable role of women in sustaining the country’s agriculture, Agrihouse Foundation remains dedicated to promoting their recognition and celebrating their immense achievements.
Global Affairs Canada has been a prominent partner since the inception of WOFAGRIC and the Gold in the Soil Awards, contributing to the programme’s remarkable impact. This collaboration sets a powerful example for promoting sustainable agriculture, recognising excellence, and empowering women farmers not only within Ghana, but also on a global scale.
Scheduled for July 26-27 in the Eastern Region under the theme ‘Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders, the fifth edition of WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards promises to be a significant milestone in the collaboration between Global Affairs Canada and Agrihouse Foundation. It will further highlight the transformative potential of empowering women in agriculture by providing a platform for women farmers to showcase their accomplishments, foster gender equality, and encourage active women representation in the agriculture value chain.
Promoting gender equality: The collaboration between Global Affairs Canada and Agrihouse Foundation is a testament to their shared commitment to promoting gender equality in agriculture. Recognising the specific challenges faced by women farmers and agribusiness professionals, the partnership seeks to break down barriers and create equal opportunities for all. Through capacity-building programmes and technical expertise, women gain access to technology, equipment and financial services, ultimately enhancing their productivity and efficiency in post-production activities.
Launching The Regional Women Farmers & Fishers’ Union of Ghana: To further support past beneficiaries and award-winners, Agrihouse Foundation is set to officially launch the Regional Women Farmers & Fishers’ Union of Ghana. This union will foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and collective progress among women in agriculture. By providing a unified voice, women farmers will be better equipped to address challenges, advocate for their rights, and contribute to the sustainable development of Ghana’s agricultural sector.
A Bright future: The partnership between Global Affairs Canada and Agrihouse Foundation stands as a beacon of hope for empowering women farmers and promoting sustainable practices. With their dedicated efforts, collaborative partnerships, and the celebration of remarkable achievements, women’s contributions to the agricultural landscape are receiving the recognition they deserve. As Global Affairs Canada continues its support, the future remains bright for women farmers as their lives are transformed, and their impact on food security and economic development continues to grow.
About WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards: Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & The Gold in the Soil Awards is an annual event that strengthens and promotes a paradigm shift in celebrating women farmers, processors, marketers, and individuals contributing to the agricultural value chain. These awards acknowledge the remarkable efforts of women in various sectors, including transportation, packaging, technology, and input dealers. Every year, the event moves from region to region, searching for these extraordinary women who play a significant role in putting food on our tables. Regardless of their abilities, they are thriving to contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector.
The partnership between Global Affairs Canada and Agrihouse Foundation exemplifies a shared commitment to empowering women farmers and promoting sustainable practices in the agricultural sector. Through their comprehensive support, recognition of achievements, and collaborative initiatives, women’s contributions are celebrated, inspiring others and fostering a thriving agricultural community. The transformative power of this partnership highlights the vital role that gender equality and women empowerment play in achieving sustainable development goals in the agricultural sector.
Source: BFT
