Madam Ernestina Yeboah, a 48-year-old from Apenkro in Dormaa East, has demonstrated remarkable determination and creativity in the world of farming. Her story is a testament to the power of innovation and hard work in overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Fifteen years ago, Ernestina and her two siblings pooled their family savings to purchase 6.5 acres of land, embarking on a farming journey that would transform their lives. Today, she cultivates both maize and cocoa on this land, achieving impressive harvests. In the minor season, she harvests 6-7 bags of maize, while in the major season, she produces 13-15 bags.
Ernestina’s ingenuity shines through in her ability to diversify her income streams. Recognizing the potential of cocoa pods, she began turning them into soap, a unique innovation that provides her with additional income, especially when cocoa is out of season. This creative approach has become a vital part of her business, allowing her to support her family and provide for her children’s needs.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Ernestina is a nominee for both the “Gold in the Soil Award” and the “She Innovates Award,” recognizing her contributions to agriculture and her innovative spirit.
Farming, however, is not without its challenges. according to her Pests and insects pose a constant threat to her crops.
Despite the hurdles, Ernestina remains a fervent advocate for farming, especially for young people and women. She believes that agriculture holds the key to improving lives and boosting the economy. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to see the vast opportunities that farming can offer.
Ernestina Yeboah’s journey from investing family savings into a successful farming enterprise showcases how hard work, creativity, and innovation can lead to remarkable achievements in agriculture. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination and resourcefulness, one can turn dreams into reality and make a significant impact on their community and beyond.
This have earned her nomination at Agrihouse Foundation’s 6th Gold in the Soil Awards. For the ’she innovates awards category.
with support from Global Affairs Canada and Yara Ghana limited , the women in food and agriculture leadership training forum and gold in the soil awards have for the past 6 years d celebrated, empowered and honour outstanding women in agriculture for their resilience, innovation, and dedication to farming practices that significantly contribute to the agricultural sector.
Scheduled for July 9th to 10th, 2024, at Sunyani Technical University, the 6th Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards to be held Under the theme “Overcoming the Barriers to Women Agribusiness Development: The Role of Stakeholders,” will gather stakeholders, industry leaders, women farmers, and advocates to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and advocate for a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector.
As the Agrihouse Production Team travels through the Bono Region, they will capture stories of resilience, innovation, and success among women farmers. These efforts highlight the immense talent and hard work of female farmers and farmers with disabilities, paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous agricultural sector that recognizes the vital role of women in ensuring food security.
About WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards: The Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & The Gold in the Soil Awards is an annual celebration that empowers and honors women across Ghana’s agricultural value chain, including farmers, processors, marketers, and others. These awards not only recognize excellence but also promote sustainable agricultural practices and food security, ensuring a prosperous future for farming communities nationwide.
