EMPOWERING FEMALE FARMERS: A GAME-CHANGER FOR BONO’S AGRICULTURE
Sunyani-Fiapre, July 24, 2024 — In a
region where women have long been the backbone of agriculture, a significant
step was taken towards enhancing their role in ensuring food security. Over 200
young female farmers gathered at Ideas Hotel, Sunyani-Fiapre, for a
capacity-building workshop and farm input distribution program, organized by
WAN Hive GHANA in collaboration with Kosmos Innovation Centre.
Agriculture in the Bono region has traditionally
been seen as a domain for the older generation and those with limited
educational opportunities. However, recent trends show a growing interest among
young women in various agricultural value chains, from production to marketing.
The event, themed “Women’s Role in Ensuring Food Security,” aimed to harness
this interest and equip these women with the tools and knowledge needed to
succeed.
A High-Profile Event
The event was attended by notable figures,
including Nana Kwadwo Donyina Kusi II, Fiapre Traditional Authority; Mad. Janet
Issifu, CEO of WAN Hive Ghana; Mad. Felicia Boadu, Regional WIAD Officer; and
Mad. Phillipa Mensah from the World Food Forum. Their presence highlighted the
importance of empowering women in agriculture and the commitment to fostering
the next generation of female agricultural leaders.
Workshops and Training
The day began with a workshop led by Mad. Felicia
Boadu, who provided training on "Farming as a Business." The farmers
were taught key skills including agricultural knowledge, business strategies,
technical and management skills, as well as regulatory and interpersonal
skills. The focus was on encouraging these women to approach farming with a
business mindset, positioning them for long-term success.
Following this, Mad. Phillipa Mensah delivered a
session on food security, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agriculture
and the support of smallholder farmers. She highlighted the need to address
climate change to ensure everyone has access to quality, affordable food
year-round.
Inspiration and Encouragement
Keynote speeches from Mad. Mercy of Kosmos
Innovation Centre, Mad. Janet Issifu, and Nana Donyina Kusi II resonated with a
message of resilience and commitment. The speakers encouraged the female
farmers to embrace farming as a business, one that can provide for their
families and contribute to the broader goal of food security in Ghana.
Practical Support
In addition to training, the 200 female youth
farmers each received vital farming tools and inputs from Kosmos Innovation
Centre. These included wellington boots, knapsack spraying machines, vegetable
seeds, and weedicides—resources designed to help them take their agricultural
efforts to the next level.
Looking Ahead
As the event concluded, the sense of optimism among
the attendees was palpable. The workshop was more than just a day of learning;
it was a catalyst for change, empowering women to lead in agriculture and food
security.
"Empowering women in agriculture is essential
for ensuring global food security," said Mad. Felicia Boadu. "With
the right support, their contributions can be transformative."
The event marked a significant milestone in the
journey to empower women in agriculture, providing them with the skills,
resources, and confidence to reshape the future of farming in the Bono region
and beyond.
By Adam Siaka
Catholic University Radio
Wisdom 101.1
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