A COMMUNITY'S CASHEW APPLES JOURNEY TO ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT

By CUG NEWS MEDIA

Sunyani, the vibrant capital of the Bono Region, recently played host to a unique and transformative training session aimed at redefining the way local communities view one of their most abundant natural resources: the cashew apple. Held at Sheila’s Hotel in Fiapre from April 3rd to 5th, 2023, the training sought to turn what many see as mere farm waste into a valuable source of nutrition, income, and community pride.

The initiative was the brainchild of the Bono Regional Minister, Hon. Justina Awo Banahene, whose vision was to empower the region’s women and youth by unlocking the untapped potential of the cashew apple. Backed by financial support from GIZ-MOVE, a German development organization focused on market-oriented value chains, the three-day event brought together 150 participants eager to learn, innovate, and change their fortunes.

A Shift in Perspective

For years, farmers in Sunyani and its surrounding districts have focused almost exclusively on the economic benefits of cashew nuts, often leaving the cashew apple—90% of the fruit’s total weight—to rot in the fields. Yet, as the training revealed, this overlooked by-product is a treasure trove of nutrients, packed with Vitamin C and iron, and a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.

Led by facilitators from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s Women in Agricultural Development (WIAD) and Directorate of Crop Services (DCS), the training sessions covered a range of topics from good agricultural practices in cashew farming to the harvesting and processing of ripe cashew apples. Participants were introduced to an array of recipes, including cashew apple omelette, yam balls, sandwiches, kebabs, juices, popsicles, and even chicken light soup.

The third day of the event saw a public tasting session, where the community was invited to sample these creations. The results were nothing short of remarkable, with innovative dishes like cashew apple shito, chips, powder, and even cashew apple pizza surprising and delighting attendees. The ingenuity didn’t stop at food—participants also learned to create soaps and pomades from cashew apples, adding another dimension to their potential income streams.

Empowering a Community

The training was not just about food; it was about empowerment. By teaching women and youth how to process and utilize cashew apples, the program aimed to create new economic opportunities and foster a sense of pride and ownership in the community. The hope is that these skills will not only improve the livelihoods of those directly involved but also inspire others in the region to explore the potential of cashew apples.

One key outcome of the training was the formation of an association dedicated to championing the use of cashew apples in the district. This group will continue to support and encourage local efforts to turn cashew apples into a viable business, ensuring that the knowledge and skills gained during the training are passed on to others.

Breaking Myths and Building Knowledge

An important aspect of the training was addressing common misconceptions about the cashew apple. For years, a belief persisted that consuming cashew apples with milk could pose health risks. The training dispelled this myth, explaining that while a chemical reaction between cashew apple and milk can cause coagulation, it is not harmful. However, facilitators also emphasized that individual allergies and sensitivities should be taken into account.

In light of the nutritional benefits of cashew apples, the facilitators recommended that school feeding program matrons and secondary school heads receive training on these recipes. This, they argued, would not only enhance the nutritional content of school meals but also create a new market for cashew apple products, benefiting local farmers and processors alike.

A Vision for the Future

The cashew apple training in Sunyani-Fiapre was more than just a workshop—it was a glimpse into the future of agriculture in the Bono Region. By changing how the community views and uses the cashew apple, the training has opened up new possibilities for economic growth and social development.

As participants return to their districts armed with new skills and ideas, the hope is that the humble cashew apple will no longer be seen as waste but as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and prosperity for the people of Sunyani and beyond.

 

By Adam Siaka

Catholic University of Ghana
Wisdom 101.1

 

 

By Adam Siaka
Catholic University Radio
Wisdom 101.1

  


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