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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