The Ghana Women in Agroecology and Territorial Markets (GWAT) is poised to spearhead the shift towards agroecology as a sustainable farming practice and business in the country. This initiative, which seeks to address critical environmental and economic challenges through sustainable agriculture, marks a significant milestone in the country’s agricultural landscape.
To launch its mission, key stakeholders gathered in Accra to discuss the numerous benefits of agroecology and to establish an interim leadership structure that will guide the association towards achieving its goals. This leadership team, which includes a president, vice president, and three other key individuals, will work alongside regional coordinators to lay the foundation for GWAT’s operations.
Fortune Kyei, Programmes Officer of GWAT, emphasized the importance of having a well-organized group of 20 people, which will allow the association to register as an independent entity and pursue funding opportunities to support future projects. This structured approach is essential for the association’s long-term success in advocating for agroecology and supporting the transition of farmers towards more sustainable practices.
The gathering of stakeholders from diverse sectors was pivotal in outlining key strategies for promoting agroecology, including creating a favorable environment for farmers making the transition. Discussions focused on the creation of support systems and advocacy for agroecological practices that are both environmentally and economically sustainable.
GWAT is a collaborative initiative between Guzakuza, a vibrant organization dedicated to empowering women in agribusiness across Africa, and the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA). Together, they are working towards equitable food systems across Africa, ensuring that women and farmers are at the forefront of transforming agricultural practices for better livelihoods and environmental sustainability.
Ms. Kyei shared her optimism for the future of GWAT, noting that the interim leadership’s first task will be to establish a functional constitution and create a solid structure for the association. This will involve forming active committees to spearhead future activities aligned with the mission and vision of the organization. Given the enthusiasm and dedication of the members, she expressed confidence that GWAT will thrive where other women’s organizations have struggled to maintain momentum.
Emefa Jeanny Ansong Mensah, the president of the interim leadership, echoed this vision, stating that GWAT aims to make agroecology a household name in Ghana. Through intensive educational initiatives, the association plans to introduce the concept of agroecology to Ghanaians, highlighting its benefits not just for farmers but for consumers as well. “Agroecology comes as a solution to the many challenges we face, from climate change to the health and sustainability of businesses,” she said.
Ms. Mensah further emphasized that, with a successful transition to agroecology, Ghana could produce safer agricultural products, create more sustainable livelihoods for farmers, and contribute to economic growth. She reassured members that GWAT is committed to providing strong leadership and collaboration, with the goal of elevating the association to both local and international recognition. “Agroecology is not just for business entities—it’s a way of life. Together, we will make this a community effort,” she affirmed.
GWAT has secured funding from APSA resources to support its activities for the coming year. Looking ahead, AFSA, Guzakuza, and other partners will continue to support GWAT in sourcing funds to drive its future initiatives.
Ms. Mensah also invited women working in agriculture to join the movement and advocate for agroecology. She encouraged participants to engage with the platform through various media channels to spread the message and contribute to the transition to agroecology.
In the previous year, Guzakuza and AFSA organized a roundtable meeting to discuss agroecology, develop policy recommendations, strengthen networks, and raise the visibility of agroecology across Africa. This collaboration has provided a strong foundation for GWAT’s mission and its future impact on Ghana and beyond.
With a clear vision, committed leadership, and a strong foundation of support, GWAT is poised to be a transformative force in the African agricultural sector, empowering women, improving food systems, and advancing sustainable farming practices for generations to come.
source :BFTONLINE.COM
