Doris Dafada is a resilient and dedicated 56-year-old farmer from Abodzi Dome Abra. In the Eastern Region of Ghana, with 30 years of farming experience under her belt, Doris tends to her 9-acre farm with immense passion and commitment. Her fields boast a diverse array of crops, including 1 acre of okra, 4 acres of maize, and 4 acres of cassava. Doris’ journey in agriculture began with a profound desire to provide for her family, and today, she stands as an embodiment of resilience and triumph.
through hard work and unwavering commitment, she has been able to achieve remarkable feats, including building her own house and ensuring that all eight of her children received an education.
“It has not been an easy journey, but through farming, I have been able to see my children grow and succeed. It fills my heart with joy to witness them pursue their dreams,” says Doris, with a glint of pride in her eyes.
Doris doesn’t farm alone; she employs ten dedicated laborers who assist her in tending to the fields. With their support, she manages to maintain her crops and achieve impressive yields year after year.
In 2020, her expertise and hard work were recognized when she was awarded the prestigious title of “Best Okro Farmer” in the Ayensuano District. The accolade was a testament to her commitment to excellence and the remarkable quality of her produce.
Beyond her own success, Doris believes in sharing her knowledge and empowering other women in her community. She regularly trains and educates women on best farming practices and techniques, aiming to uplift and empower them to create sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their families.
“My dream is not just about my own family’s well-being; it extends to the women in my community. By sharing knowledge and supporting each other, we can create a brighter future for all,” says Doris, her voice filled with determination.
However, Doris faces challenges in her journey. Financial constraints and access to fertilizers have been significant obstacles in maximizing her farm’s potential. She dreams of expanding her agricultural endeavors, but financial assistance and access to quality fertilizers are crucial to achieving this dream.
Doris is hopeful that her dedication to farming and community empowerment will earn her the prestigious “Change Champion” award. She believes that winning this award will not only provide her with the necessary support but also amplify her mission to uplift her community and inspire fellow farmers.
“I humbly thank Agrihouse Foundation and their partners for recognizing the efforts of farmers like me. I appeal to them to come to our aid and support us in our mission to transform lives through agriculture,” Doris earnestly implores.
As the story of Doris Dafada unfolds, it becomes evident that she is not just a farmer, but a visionary, a leader, and an agent of change in her community. Her resilience and passion serve as an inspiration to all, proving that the seeds of dedication, when sown with love and care, can yield a harvest of hope and prosperity.
The Agrihouse Foundation and its esteemed partners stand poised to acknowledge the exceptional efforts of farmers like Doris. As they continue to support agricultural transformation, they recognize that empowering individuals like Doris will not only enrich their lives but also nourish the growth of communities and the nation as a whole.
Doris Dafada’s story was captured by Agrihouse Foundation’s Production Team who recently travelled across all 33 districts in the Eastern Region, their mission was to document the remarkable achievements of 62 shortlisted women farmers and farmers with disabilities in the Eastern Region, for the upcoming 5th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & The Gold in the Soil Awards, an annual rotational Regional intervention organized by Agrihouse Foundation in partnership with global affairs Canada.
Travelling from district to district, Agrihouse Production Team captured stories of resilience, innovation, and success, showcasing the immense talent and achievement and hard work of these women farmers in the Eastern Region.
Their efforts aim to make a profound impact by highlighting the incredible contributions of women farmers and farmers with disabilities, who pave the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous agricultural sector that recognizes the vital role of women in shaping the future of food security.
Global Affairs Canada has for the past five years shown a continued commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of women farmers by sponsoring Agrihouse Foundation’s production team in our quest to recognize, honour and celebrate women farmers and farmers with disability, other partners for this year’s 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil awards also includes Yara Ghana, RDF Ghana LBG and World Food Program.
With dedication and perseverance deserve recognition and support. Her story reminds us of the untapped potential within individuals who, despite challenging circumstances, remain determined to make a positive impact on their lives and the lives of their loved ones.
The 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards is scheduled for July 26-27 in Koforidua at the Bedtime Hotel in the Eastern Region ,under the theme “OVERCOMING THE BARRIERS TO WOMEN AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: THE ROLE OF STAKEHOLDERS,” promise to be a momentous occasion. These events will bring together stakeholders, industry leaders, and women farmers and farmers with disability to award and celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector.
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.
BY:AGRIWATCH REPORTER
