Nana Anane Sarah, a respected traditional leader in Seikwa, Tain District, has made remarkable strides in agriculture at the age of 62. Initially starting with 12 acres, she now manages a sprawling 75-acre farm where she cultivates maize, yam, mango, cassava, baobab trees, and raises poultry with 32 chickens. Transitioning from a teaching career, she discovered that farming offered greater profitability and satisfaction.
Her journey in farming began 20-25 years ago, during former President John Agyekum Kuffour’s tenure, when she received free baobab trees to plant on 18 acres. This initiative provided a significant boost, allowing her to sometimes export a full container of baobab trees to the market. Despite facing financial challenges, Nana Anane Sarah took a bank loan to invest in her farms, which has since turned into a thriving enterprise.
As a way of giving back to her community and fulfilling her role as a traditional leader, Nana Anane Sarah offers portions of her land to locals to cultivate. After the harvest, they share the produce, providing a sustainable means to improve the livelihoods of women in her community through agriculture. Her efforts exemplify how traditional leadership and innovative farming practices can drive community development and economic growth.
In recognition of her achievements, Nana Anane Sarah has been nominated for the Royal Agro Award at the upcoming Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards (WOFAGRIC). The event, scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, underscores the importance of empowering individuals like Nana Anane Sarah, who play a crucial role in agricultural development. Themed “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” this event will gather over 600 participants for discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and mentorship sessions aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth.
For the past six years, the Gold in the Soil Awards have honored outstanding women farmers, farmers with disabilities, processors, and women across the entire agricultural value chain who have significantly contributed to Ghana’s agricultural sector. Supported by Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana, the event emphasizes the pivotal role of women farmers and individuals with disabilities in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.
Nana Anane Sarah’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and innovation in agriculture. Her transition from teaching to farming, coupled with her efforts to uplift her community, highlights the significant impact of women in agriculture. Her nomination for the Royal Agro Award is a well-deserved recognition of her contributions to Ghana’s agricultural sector and her commitment to community development.
