Addressing attendees at the sixth edition of the “Gathering of the Royals,” organized by the Agrihouse Foundation in collaboration with the Queen Mothers Foundation, themed “Seeds of Change: Cultivating Gender Equality in Agriculture and Honoring Women’s Advancement,”
Nana Ama Bonsu underscored the transformative potential of diversity, urging women to unite and propel the sector towards excellence. Recognizing the pivotal role of women in agriculture, she stressed the importance of harnessing their collective strength to achieve sustainable development goals.
she also expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s tireless efforts in promoting sustainable development and fostering partnerships aimed at driving positive change in the agricultural sector. She emphasized the crucial role of organizations like Agrihouse Foundation in providing platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation within the agricultural community.
The 6th Gathering of the Royals brought together over a thousand participants, including ninety-six Queen Mothers from across the sixteen regions of Ghana, two hundred and sixty-five Women Farmers and Farm Associations, and seventy women Agri-processors. Dignitaries from various sectors, such as development partners, government agencies, private institutions, academia, research associations, and civil society organizations, also participated.
Through insightful discussions, networking sessions, and cultural showcases, the event facilitated the exchange of ideas, sharing of best practices, and formation of partnerships aimed at driving sustainable development in the agricultural sector.
During the Royal Panel discussion, led by Nana Akuamoah II , Queen Mother of Tuobodom, and Nana Akuah Tawiah I, Queen Mother of Sewfi Asempa Na Eye in the Western North Region, Nana Adwoa Larboh I, Queen Mothe of Yji Traditional Area in the Bono East Region, and others such as Miriama Saaka, Queen Mother of Sadoboora-Wungu Traditional Area in the Northeast Region, and Braimah Azara Kabachewurche Timu Burnyanso I, Queen Mother of Kabache-Kpeme Traditional Council in the Savannah Region. Also present were Nana Aba Kyere III , Queen Mother of Abirem Agona in the Central Region, Queen Mother Nana Amponsah Sekle II of Mafi Gidikpi Number 1 in the Volta Region, and Nana Darkowaaa Ampem Kyerewaa II, Paramount Queen Mother of Yamfo Traditional Area in the Ahafo Region the queen mothers shared insights into the challenges facing women in agriculture.
These challenges include limited access to land, lack of financial support, difficulties in accessing market linkages, absence of modern mechanized equipment for farming, inadequate road networks, lack of extension services, and the absence of pension schemes for farmers.
The Queen Mothers however appealed to the government and corporate organizations to extend their support to address these pressing issues, thereby fostering a conducive environment for women in agriculture to thrive.
