The search for Ghana’s outstanding women in agriculture has gained significant momentum, with over 200 women farmers and agribusiness players already registered through the online nomination platform for the upcoming 8th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Expo (WOFAGRIC) and Gold in the Soil Awards.
The nominations, which span 18 award categories, reflect the growing interest among women across the agricultural value chain in showcasing their achievements and contributing to the advancement of Ghana’s agricultural sector.
Organized by Agrihouse Foundation and sponsored by Global Affairs Canada, the WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards seek to recognize and celebrate women and persons with disability who continue to make remarkable contributions to agriculture as farmers, processors, marketers, agripreneurs, extension officers, and advocates for agricultural development.
Following the close of nominations, a rigorous selection process started to shortlist outstanding nominees. A total of 54 women, three nominees from each category, will be selected as finalists.
However, beyond the competition, all 54 shortlisted finalists will benefit from an intensive training and mentorship programme designed to strengthen their leadership skills, improve their agribusinesses, and equip them with practical knowledge to scale up their operations.
The mentorship component has the most impactful aspects of WOFAGRIC, as it provides over the years participants with opportunities to learn from industry experts, build networks, and access valuable market and business information.
At the awards ceremony, one winner will emerge from each of the 18 categories. In a demonstration of the initiative’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, all three shortlisted finalists in the Farmers with Disabilities category will receive awards in recognition of their resilience, hard work, and contributions to Ghana’s agricultural sector.
According to the Executive Chair of Agrihouse Foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, the increasing number of nominations is a clear indication that more women are embracing agriculture as a viable business and are making significant strides within their respective fields.
She further indicated that, the 8th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards, is scheduled to take place in the Savannah Region on the July 22 – July 23. “The event is expected to bring together women farmers, farmers with disabilities, agribusiness leaders, policymakers, development partners, and agricultural stakeholders from across the country to celebrate excellence, share experiences, and inspire the next generation of women agricultural leaders.” She reveals.
The Executive Chair noted that, the uniqueness about this year’s event is that Canada is bringing all the ultimate winners from the previous years to share their transformational experiences aided by Canada’s support.