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Empowering Dreams and Overcoming Challenges in Gatsibo Rwanda

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In the heart of Gatsibo District, a youth-led cooperative named Twiteze Imbere—meaning “let’s join our efforts to develop ourselves”—has emerged as a beacon of hope for local youth. Chairperson Mukashyaka Nadia, just 23 years old, embodies the aspirations of her 28 peers, aged 18 to 35. Faced with the dual challenges of limited skills and inadequate funding, Nadia captures their struggle: “We might have ideas, but the main challenges for us are limited skills and funds.”

 

Currently, Twiteze Imbere operates a small poultry farm, raising only 200 birds under suboptimal conditions. However, the cooperative’s dreams far exceed its current capabilities. With the support of the Youth Entrepreneurship for the Future of Food and Agriculture (YEFFA) program—an initiative by AGRA in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation—Twiteze Imbere is on a transformative journey.

 

The YEFFA Program: A Catalyst for Change

The YEFFA program, implemented by Abusol Ltd and ADC Ltd, aims to create dignified work opportunities for young people, particularly women and disadvantaged groups, through the development of inclusive food systems and agricultural value chains.

Since partnering with YEFFA in June 2024, Nadia and her cooperative have undergone a profound transformation. Through a 10-day intensive training focused on poultry management, complemented by a 12-day study tour of successful poultry farms,  Twiteze Imbere chair person has acquired crucial skills that have revitalized the cooperative ambitions.

Nadia reflects on this impact: “Our hope has increased. The training opened my eyes to how we can generate income from poultry.”

Remarkable Achievements

The results of the YEFFA program are evident:

Financial Growth: The cooperative’s savings have skyrocketed from 400,000 Rwandan francs to over 3 million Rwandan francs. This remarkable increase reflects not only improved financial management but also newfound confidence in their business acumen.

Project Diversification: In addition to poultry, the cooperative launched a nursery tree project, successfully selling over 40,000 young trees. This initiative, which started with an investment of only 300,000 Rwandan francs, has provided a vital financial boost, contributing significantly to their poultry operations.

Increased Production Goals: With aspirations to expand from 200 to at least 1,000 poultry, the cooperative recognizes that additional funding of about 3 million Rwandan francs is essential. The success of the nursery project is crucial in achieving this goal.

A Vision for the Future

With newfound skills and financial support, Twiteze Imbere is not just surviving; it is thriving. Nadia’s optimism is palpable: “I am very optimistic that this project will help us meet our mission.” The cooperative’s vision extends beyond mere survival—they aim to become a sustainable enterprise that empowers youth and women in the community.

Broader Impact of the YEFFA Program

The success of Twiteze Imbere reflects a broader initiative under the YEFFA program, which aims to train 4,006 youth in best practices for poultry farming. With a target of establishing 190 youth groups, the program is set to create self-employment opportunities, link youth to financial institutions, and significantly increase female participation in the poultry sector.

Employment Opportunities: The program anticipates creating 4,500 work opportunities, with a goal of ensuring that 70% of beneficiaries are women.

Sustainable Growth: By focusing on producing competent actors in modern poultry farming, the YEFFA program is laying the groundwork for a resilient agricultural sector in Rwanda.

Conclusion: A Model of Success

Twiteze Imbere’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of the YEFFA program. Through targeted training, financial support, and access to market opportunities, the cooperative has turned challenges into remarkable achievements. The story of Mukashyaka Nadia and her peers is one of resilience, hope, and empowerment—a testament to what can be accomplished when young people are equipped with the right tools and support.

As they continue to grow, Twiteze Imbere stands as a model of success, inspiring other youth-led initiatives across Rwanda to join in the movement toward sustainable agriculture and economic independence. The future looks bright for this cooperative, and with ongoing support, they are poised to make a lasting impact in their community.

African Youth Lead the Charge in Climate Adaptation at COP29

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Baku, Azerbaijan 19th November 2024 At COP29, African youth took center stage in various sessions on food systems and climate adaptation sharing their experiences and best practices and showcasing the innovative technologies they are using to address climate shocks on their farms and enterprises. Through various sessions, attended by diverse stakeholders, the youth climate champions took the moment to present the role of young people in driving sustainable agricultural practices and addressing climate change.

At COP, the young agripreneurs from across Africa presented their efforts in climate resilient food systems transformation. They shared real-life examples of how they are adapting to changing climate conditions, such as using drought-resistant crop varieties, use of renewable energy, implementing water-saving irrigation techniques, adopting agroforestry practices among others. These innovative solutions are not only enhancing their resilience to climate impacts but also improving food security and livelihoods in their communities.

Marcia Manhica, the Vice President of Association for Health and Rural Development in Mozambique, said that “Climate change is the greatest threat to our existence on the planet. No one will be able to escape its consequences if we do not unite to combat this phenomenon. The planet without us will always be a planet, but we cannot exist without the planet.”

While Dolphine Magero, Founder, Green Youth Climate Fund Initiative, said that the “29th Conference of Parties to UNFCCC presents an opportunity for the international community and particularly Africa to design a climate finance mechanism that speaks to the very core of human existence which is food security.  COP 29 must deliver at least 10% of climate finance to youth led climate resilient initiatives and a grant-based climate finance goal that support sustainable food systems through programmes such as Climate Friendly School Feeding Programme.”

In addition to discussing their adaptation strategies, the youth also presented the 11 recommendations from the African Common Position on youth food systems and climate and the Kigali Declaration on Youth in Food Systems and Climate Action in various platforms.

These recommendations included:

  1. Investment in youth-centric food systems and climate policies.
  2. Enhancing access to resources and funding for young farmers.
  3. Strengthening capacity building and knowledge sharing.
  4. Promoting of technological innovation in agriculture.
  5. Facilitating Inclusive and gender-equitable agricultural policies.
  6. Acceleration of agro-industrial development and value chain integration.
  7. Mobilization of youth as key actors in climate action.
  8. Collaboration and partnerships for youth empowerment initiatives.
  9. Strengthening policy and advocacy frameworks with youth involvement.
  10. Facilitating research and development to inform youth engagement.
  11. Increasing in climate action finance for Africa.

The events presented the potential of African youth to lead the way in creating resilient food systems that can withstand the pressures of climate change. Their participation at COP29 demonstrates their commitment to building a sustainable future and presents the need for continued support and investment to youth-led initiatives.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Jeremiah Rogito, Specialist for Food Systems, Land Use, and Climate at AGRA, and Lead for the AGRA Youth Delegation at COP29 said “African youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the changemakers of today. At COP29, we have witnessed their resilience, creativity, and determination in addressing the most pressing challenge of our time climate change. Through their innovative approaches to commitment to sustainable and climate resilient food systems, these young leaders are setting a powerful example for the world. Now, more than ever, we must invest in their potential and amplify their voices to ensure a sustainable future for all.”

 

Unlocking Africa’s Future Youth, Food Systems, and the Climate Imperative

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As Africa stands in awe of a demographic revolution, with youth accounting for nearly 60% of its population, the continent finds itself at a crossroads. Agriculture, long considered the backbone of African economies, is now more critical than ever. Climate change poses an existential threat, yet within this challenge lies an unparalleled opportunity—one that rests squarely in the hands of our young people.

Africa’s future, especially in the face of an unpredictable climate, depends on how we empower and equip our youth to lead the transformation of food systems. From Nairobi to Lagos, from Accra to Kigali, young people are seizing opportunities and demanding to be part of the solution. As we march forward in pursuit of a more climate-resilient and sustainable future, it is imperative that we listen to, invest in, and elevate the voices of young Africans.

Agriculture employs over 50% of Africa’s workforce, yet it has been viewed through the narrow lens of subsistence for too long. Today’s youth see things differently. Armed with technological prowess and a strong desire for innovation, they envision agriculture as a vehicle for change. This sector feeds the continent and drives economic growth, mitigates climate risks, and builds resilient communities.

The recent survey of 581 youth from 32 African countries confirms this vision. Over 492 participants identified sustainable agriculture as the most significant producer of green jobs, followed by water and waste management. A staggering 526 respondents expressed interest in green jobs, recognizing their importance in addressing environmental challenges (Generation Africa 2024 survey). These numbers tell a powerful story: Africa’s youth want to be part of the green transformation but need support.

Despite their ambition, many young people face daunting barriers. Limited access to resources, lack of financing, and bureaucratic hurdles continue to affect their potential. The urgency of their need for support is clear. Nearly 318 respondents in the survey reported familiarity with green jobs, yet over 200 of them need help to secure green opportunities. They know they are the solution, but they need to be kept in the systems that should empower them.

AGRA and its partners engaged with young people from across 15 AGRA countries to further capture youth voices. These country engagements and regional engagements led to the launch of the Africa common position on youth, food systems, and climate policy, capturing youth voices launched at the AFS Summit in Kigali, Rwanda. The voices of the youth from the call to action were clear: to unleash the full potential of Africa’s youth, we must tackle these barriers head-on. It starts with investing in youth-centric food systems and climate policies. Governments must prioritize youth involvement in crafting and implementing policies that promote sustainable agriculture and climate resilience. Youth-led initiatives such as precision farming, agroforestry, and the use of digital platforms must be supported and scaled.

Second, access to resources and funding must be improved. Young people across the continent have been clear: they need financial resources, access to arable land, and agricultural inputs to thrive. Without these, their dreams remain just those dreams. Expanding microcredit schemes and investment funds and simplifying land acquisition and access processes are essential.

Third, knowledge sharing and capacity building must become a cornerstone of our strategy. Youth are eager for mentorship, training, and practical experiences that bridge the gap between knowledge and practice. Field schools, internships, and digital literacy programs are the tools they need to turn their passion into action. Additionally, gender-inclusive policies must ensure that marginalized groups, especially young women, have equal access to opportunities.

Finally, we must mobilize youth as critical actors in climate action and mobilize climate finance for young people. Africa’s youth are not mere beneficiaries—they are leaders in their own right. Their voices must be front and center in climate governance, adaptation, and mitigation strategies. They are already engaging in climate-smart agriculture and sustainable development; we must amplify their efforts and integrate them into national and continental decision-making processes.

Africa’s future food security, economic growth, and climate resilience depend on the success of today’s youth. They are not asking for handouts but the tools and opportunities to build a better world for all of us. In return, they offer not just fresh ideas, but a reservoir of untapped potential, determination, and a deep connection to the land.

I urge governments, private sector leaders, and international organizations to heed this call to action. Let us invest in the next generation of African leaders—empowering them to transform our food systems, tackle climate change, and secure a prosperous, equitable future for all.

As we look to the future, the time to act is now. We can create a more sustainable and resilient Africa by investing in our youth. Let’s ensure they have the resources, opportunities, and platforms to lead. Africa’s potential is limitless, but we must unlock it by empowering those who will carry the continent forward. Let us act in hope, with a sense of urgency, commitment, and vision. The future of Africa rests in their hands, so let’s ensure we support them every step of the way.

 

By: Nana Yaa Boakyewaa Amoah

Building Resilience in times of Climate Change

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By Kindie Fantaye, Head of Climate Resilience at AGRA

 The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region is home to over 270 million people, encompasses diverse landscapes ranging from semi-arid areas to fertile agricultural zones. This diversity, however, also means that the region is acutely vulnerable to climate events like El Niño and La Niña, which have increasingly severe impacts on our communities, economies, and food systems.

Climate Impacts on the IGAD Region

El Niño events often bring unseasonal rainfall and flooding, devastating farmlands, infrastructure, and entire communities. On the other hand, La Niña events tend to lead to prolonged droughts, water scarcity, crop failures, and livestock deaths. Both phenomena exacerbate food insecurity and economic hardship, disproportionately affecting rural populations, women, children, and smallholder farmers and herders who rely heavily on rain-fed production systems. As a result, millions in our region face food shortages, malnutrition, displacement, and loss of livelihoods. The economic toll is equally staggering, with agricultural losses directly impacting GDP and livelihoods, while further straining national budgets that are already stretched thin.

What Needs to Be Done

To address these challenges, immediate, coordinated actions at multiple levels are essential. National governments in the region must prioritize climate adaptation strategies, including strengthening early warning systems, promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices, and improving disaster response mechanisms.

In this space, the AGRA has increasingly recognized the critical need to support smallholders in adapting to and managing climate risks. To this end, AGRA has established a dedicated Climate Adaptation and Resilience Unit tasked with developing and implementing strategies to help farmers adapt to a rapidly changing climate and climate variability. This unit plays a pivotal role in coordinating AGRA’s efforts to empower smallholders with climate-smart resources, information, and tools.

One of AGRA’s primary initiatives is the delivery of climate advisories to smallholders. By providing timely, location-specific climate forecasts and agricultural advisories, AGRA ensures that farmers can make informed decisions about planting, harvesting, and managing crops and livestock resources. These advisories, often disseminated via mobile platforms, radio, and community-based networks, equip smallholders with actionable insights to mitigate the risks of extreme weather events, ultimately enhancing their resilience.

 Facilitating Agricultural Insurance

Facilitating agricultural insurance is another vital component of AGRA’s strategy. By working with financial institutions and insurance providers, AGRA helps make agricultural insurance more accessible and affordable for smallholders. Insurance products tailored to the needs of smallholders provide a safety net, enabling them to recover more quickly from climate shocks. This initiative is especially important in helping smallholders avoid the cycle of debt and loss that often follows adverse weather events.

Additionally, AGRA focuses on enhancing climate risk management at the farm level. Through training and support, AGRA promotes practices such as conservation agriculture, water management, and soil health improvement, which help farmers manage risks posed by erratic rainfall, drought, and other climate challenges. These practices not only increase resilience to climate shocks but also improve productivity and sustainability.

AGRA is also dedicated to building the resilience of smallholders by reducing asset depletion during consecutive climate shocks. By supporting diversified income streams, promoting access to credit, and enhancing food storage systems, AGRA helps farmers maintain and even strengthen their economic base through multiple climate events. This approach ensures that farmers can continue to support their households and maintain their agricultural activities even during periods of environmental stress. To scale these efforts, AGRA seeks to work with institutions like the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), which plays a crucial role in providing accurate and timely climate information. ICPAC’s expertise in climate prediction can help AGRA, national governments, and communities anticipate these events, take preventive measures, and mitigate their impact on agriculture and food security.

As we move forward, it is clear that a holistic approach is needed. This includes promoting cross-sector partnerships, encouraging investment in sustainable agriculture, and ensuring that policy frameworks are responsive to the realities of climate-induced food insecurity. Together, we can strengthen the resilience of the IGAD region to El Niño and La Niña extreme events and climate change, protecting our communities, preserving livelihoods, and promoting sustainable food systems.By working together—governments, regional institutions, the private sector, civil society, and the international community—we can forge a resilient path forward for the IGAD region.

For a Climate-Resilient Food System, Africa must Invest in its Youth; COP29 must be the Revolutionary Moment

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by Dr. Jeremiah Rogito and Patrick Githinji

On November 11th, 2024, COP29 curtains opened in Baku, Azerbaijan. This date was unique not just because it  marked my 29th birthday but it is a crucial moment for decisions on climate action. For Africa, this conference matters deeply. With a massive youth population, Africa’s young people are already facing the harsh effects of climate change, like unpredictable weather and declining farm yields. COP29 offers a chance for leaders to support African youth in building a strong, sustainable future.

At COP29 in Baku, Africa’s youth have a resounding message: now is the time for urgent, meaningful investment in youth-led food systems transformation and climate action. From the Kigali Declaration on Youth, food systems and climate to the Generation Africa Youth Survey, the message is clear: African youth are not only ready but are actively driving the shift toward sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and green job creation. However, to unlock their full potential, we need to act on the eleven key resolutions of the Kigali Declaration, particularly prioritizing increased climate finance for youth-led initiatives.

According to the African Youth Climate Hub, Africa’s youth are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change due to the continent’s high dependence on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture. With over 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, the risks posed by climate change will disproportionately impact young people, affecting food security, economic opportunities, and health outcomes across the continent. Similarly, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has highlighted that Africa will face more frequent and severe climate impacts, including droughts, floods, and extreme heat, which are likely to disrupt livelihoods and particularly affect young Africans who are predominantly employed in agriculture and natural resource sectors.

The Generation Africa Youth Survey provides a view into the challenges and aspirations of over 500 young Africans from 32 countries. While 43% of these respondents identify as entrepreneurs, nearly half report facing systemic obstacles, from lack of access to funding to limited policy support. This survey posits that Africa’s youth possess the drive and vision, yet what they need most is access; access to resources, policy reform, and climate finance that will empower them to enact real change.

The Kigali Declaration’s call for increased climate finance aligns directly with the Generation Africa 2024 survey findings. Among the survey respondents, financial support was cited in nearly 300 instances as essential for green job growth. This call is echoed in the Declaration’s eleventh item, which calls for increased flow of climate action finance to mobilize public and private investments in carbon financing and climate-smart innovations. For African youth, climate finance is not an abstract concept; it is the difference between resilient, thriving agricultural systems and a future crippled by food insecurity.

As the famous swahili proverb goes Samaki mkunje angali mbichi (Bend the fish while it is still fresh.) The proverb reminds us that the best time to shape or address a situation is at its early stages. For COP29, this means that investing in youth-led initiatives now can prevent future crises and ensure resilience in Africa’s food systems. African youth are ready and willing to lead, but without timely support and resources, their potential remains untapped. Now is the critical moment to invest in the transformative ideas of Africa’s young leaders to ensure a sustainable, resilient food system for all.

Each of the eleven resolutions and recommendations in the Kigali Declaration on youth food systems and climate is a roadmap toward a climate resilient food system, with climate finance for youth at the forefront. The call for youth-centric food systems policies, enhanced access to resources for young farmers, and strengthened capacity-building programs are critical steps. Over 500 youths surveyed expressed a strong belief that green jobs are key to solving environmental challenges. Yet, 209 said they struggled to secure green jobs, and the majority believe that government support for youth is inadequate. In contrast, learning institutions are viewed as more supportive, yet they too need increased resources and funding to sustain this role.

At COP29, global leaders and stakeholders have an opportunity to support these young people by committing to the Kigali Declaration’s resolution and prioritizing climate finance for youth-led initiatives. Africa’s youth are not asking for charity; they are asking for a partnership in building driving food systems transformation. They are prepared to lead, innovate, and create solutions for a resilient food system if provided the right tools and financial backing.

This year’s COP must be a turning point, where we move from statements to actions, from promises to tangible investments in Africa’s youth. The Kigali Declaration on Youth food systems and climate and Generation Africa Youth Survey reveal that Africa’s youth are united, resilient, and ready to lead. It is now up to stakeholders; policymakers, financial institutions, and international bodies to rise to the occasion and back these young leaders with the resources they need. At COP29, let us commit to fulfilling the eleven resolutions, increasing climate finance for youth led initiatives, and empowering Africa’s youth to shape a future where food systems are resilient, economies are sustainable, and communities are protected against climate impacts. The solutions are here. It’s time to invest in them.

 

Leveraging Youth to Accelerate CAADP Implementation Post Malabo: Side-event Highlights

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The  20th Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme Partnership Platform (CAADP-PP), coupled with the commemoration of the 15th Africa Day for Food and Nutrition Security (ADFNS),  took place in Harare, Zimbabwe, from the 29th of October to the 1st of November 2024. At this event, GanzAfrica Foundation and AGRA co-hosted a side event titled “Leveraging Youth to Accelerate CAADP Implementation Post Malabo: Lessons from GanzAfrica.” Policy experts and leaders from the African Union Council (AUC), the Royal Norwegian Embassy, and the Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture were this event’s panelists. The side event explored the vision of empowering young Africans to lead in the transformation of agrifood systems in the coming post-Malabo era.

Boaz Keizire, Head of Policy and Advocacy at AGRA led the session and opened the discussion with an intriguing context showing that Africa is at a critical stage of its socio-economic transformation. The increasing population and rapid urbanization raise the challenge of producing enough food to feed the population and create gainful employment for the youth. In October this year, Africa’s population reached 1.525billion. The continent is the youngest, with approximately 60% of the population under 25. While this is a challenge, it is also an opportunity because the labor productivity for the youths is more significant than any other age group. Therefore, platforms, partnerships, mechanisms, and strategic policies are needed to harness this youthful population to accelerate the continental agenda on food systems transformation anchored on the CAADP strategy in the upcoming post-Malabo era while generating opportunities for the youths.

The opening remarks by Janet Edeme, Head of the Division for Rural Economy at the African Union Commission (AUC), provided a continental overview of efforts to engage youth in agribusiness. She underscored the significant challenges African nations are facing in advancing youth engagement, albeit ongoing efforts. A notable point was that only ten African Union member states are currently on track to meet commitment number 4, indicator 3.3 – focused on youth participation in agribusiness value chains. While a continental policy framework (African Agribusiness Youth Strategy) is in place, it has yet to be domesticated by many member states.  This gap in adoption is compounded by challenges such as limited financing options and an environment that is often not conducive to fostering youth involvement in agribusiness and policy implementation. Addressing these barriers is crucial to empowering young people and enabling their active participation in transforming agrifood systems across the continent.

Thierry Hoza Ngoga, CEO and Founder of GanzAfrica shared lessons and experiences on leveraging youth as a workforce to support policy formulation and implementation. The collaboration between GanzAfrica, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), and the National Land Authority (NLA) in Rwanda has yielded significant outcomes, notably the development of the Rwanda Land Management Dashboard and providing support in the development of the Agriculture Management Information System (AMIS). These tools equip these institutions to leverage the digitization of processes and access to data and analytics to guide and enhance strategic decisions. In addition, critical highlights of other successful projects include seed system assessment and collaborative efforts to strengthen local climate change adaptation systems for Rwandan smallholder farmers. This holistic approach provides a platform and creates space for youths to contribute to policy formulation and implementation while building the institutional capacity of government institutions to deliver on their mandates. The youth delivery model is firmly rooted in data-supported solutions, reinforcing the value of evidence-informed policy development and implementation. Such a model can be leveraged to engage skilled youths to collect and synthesize data and build systems that ease the reporting processes on the Biennial Review equivalence of the post-Malabo agenda.

Dr. Octave Semwaga, advisor to the ministry and former Director General of Planning in the Ministry of Agriculture in Rwanda, shared insights from the ministry on the positive impact of having a team of young fellows integrated into government institutions. These fellows provide crucial policy support, develop systems and tools, and synthesize data and evidence, making it readily available for policymakers to guide their policy decisions.

By opening doors to roles such as analysts, researchers, and policymakers, this approach allows young Africans to contribute to policy-focused positions supporting Africa’s transformation. This was recognized by Odd Eirik Arnesen, Minister Counsellor and Regional Food Security Envoy at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dar Es Salaam, who highlighted it as a blueprint for scaling youth engagement across Africa. He also emphasized broadening youth engagement and creating platforms and opportunities beyond agribusiness and entrepreneurship. He stressed that initiatives like GanzAfrica must be supported to support the broader CAADP agenda and enhance institutions’ capacity.

The key lessons from this side event emphasize the critical importance of domesticating and accelerating the African Agribusiness Youth Strategy (AAYS) implementation to accelerate youth engagement in agribusiness. African young people need to be empowered with support to build skills and shape their future roles in agrifood systems transformation. GanzAfrica’s transformative model shows the power of youth-focused training and mentorship, pairing capacity building with real-world policy impact. African countries must prioritize creating inclusive institutions and systems, cultivating platforms at all levels for youth involvement, and investing in long-term capacity building to develop a skilled workforce that drives sustainable development. Through partnerships and collaboration, we need to create more platforms to harness youth’s digital, data, and analytical skills to accelerate CAADP goals in the Post-Malabo era, ensuring Africa’s youth lead the continent’s food systems transformation at the policy level while creating opportunities for many other youths at different nodes of the agrifood system value chain. Such platforms are needed beyond the agrifood systems sector.

Stay tuned as we follow this journey of collaboration and transformation, spotlighting Africa, which is led by its youth and prepared for future generations.

#GanzAfrica #AGRA #YouthInAgriculture #CAADP2024 #AgrifoodSystems

 

Enhancing Access and Transforming Seed Systems in Ghana.

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The seeds and Inputs Fair has become a linchpin in revolutionizing agriculture in the farming landscapes of Northern Ghana. By facilitating farmers’ access to quality inputs and certified seeds, the fair impacts profoundly the Ghanaian seed sector and the broader agricultural transformation, thereby transforming lives and communities.

Breaking Barriers to Accessibility

Seed, as the fundamental unit of agricultural production, embodies heritable genetic information essential for crop cultivation. Quality seed, characterized by attributes such as trueness to variety, germination percentage, purity, and freedom from pests and diseases, significantly influences crop productivity and quality. Concurrently, the synergistic application of crop protection products (CPPs) further optimizes agricultural outcomes.

Despite the pivotal role of quality seed and agro-inputs, many smallholder farmers in Ghana encounter challenges in accessing certified seeds and reliable agro-inputs, often resorting to suboptimal practices that undermine productivity and food security.

In response to these challenges, the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NASTAG) signed an agreement with AGRA to implement part of the activities under Phase II of the Partnership for Inclusive Agricultural Transformation in Africa (PIATA) program. Titled “Strengthening the Ghana Seed System to Enhance Quality Seed Delivery to Farmers,” the 26-month program focuses on four main crops: maize (hybrid), soybean, groundnut, and cowpea. This initiative, launched by AGRA, aims to provide an inclusive approach to unlocking markets for participating smallholder farmers.

NASTAG, in collaboration with MoFA, Farm Radio International, and the Feed the Future Ghana Market Systems and Resilience Activity, hosted six District/Municipal Seed and Input Fairs themed “Growing together: Developing Seed Systems for Sustainable Farming.” The fairs promoted quality local seeds and crop protection products, emphasizing their synergistic role in optimal crop performance.

Held across six strategic districts—Wa, Sissala East, Sissala West, Builsa North, Mamprugu Moagduri, and Savelugu—the fair attracted over 1,200 farmers. It provided them with a unique opportunity to interact directly with 21 top agricultural companies showcasing quality-certified seeds and advanced agrochemicals. These exhibitions were not merely displays but interactive platforms for knowledge exchange and technological demonstrations, effectively bridging the accessibility gap and equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance their agricultural practices.

Empowering Women and Youth

The fair’s inclusive approach has been instrumental in empowering women and youth in the agricultural sector. Women, who made up a significant portion of the attendees (with participation rates as high as 67% in some districts), have found new avenues for economic and social empowerment through the fair. The fair’s inclusive approach has empowered women and youth in agriculture. Women, comprising up to 67% of attendees in some districts, have discovered new economic and social opportunities.

Abibata Salim, a soybean and maize farmer from Savelugu in the Northern Region, epitomizes this empowerment. Access to certified seeds and knowledge-sharing through Farm Radio programs and training from agricultural officials significantly increased her production. This not only improved her livelihood but also created job opportunities for other women in her community. “The use of certified seeds, and training has brought positive economic impact to our household. Learning to use crop residue as fertilizer was part of the techniques that increased our yields. Now we can harvest for our consumption and sell the surplus,” Abibata shared. “Women used to be confined to housework, but thanks to the training and radio programs we got recognition from our husband and the community for our farming capabilities, which created more job opportunities for women in our area,” she added.

Other women, like Iddrisu Afisatou, Lydia Asuman Nyanin, and Sisi Alima, from Sissala, attested that the combination of certified seed and training has increased their production by over 150%. This improved their livelihood and created job opportunities for other women and youth in their community. Shared knowledge and information brought unity and mutual support in the communities leading to better recognition and enthusiasm to do farming better.

Promoting Sustainable Agricultural Practices

The Seed and Inputs Fair has not only facilitated access to quality seeds, but also promoted sustainable agricultural practices. Through demonstration fields, farmers learned and applied new techniques, ensuring optimal crop performance and productivity.

One notable story is that of Seidu Yakubu, a rice and soybean farmer from the Sagnarigu district, a father of 18 children. He has transformed his economic situation by adopting improved agricultural practices and proper planning. From his yield, he has been able to purchase a tractor, a motor king and other motorcycles, reduced labor costs, and ensured that his household’s needs are met. “I have been farming the old way, using seeds from the previous harvest and farming only for the household as my father used to do. With the improved seeds, I produce, feed my family and sell the surplus,” he said, highlighting that he is now financially comfortable and can pay all his children’s school fees.

“If you walk to my house now, you can tell I am doing well,” said Awel Abukari, a farmer from the Nantong district. “Applying sustainable farming practices has significantly helped me and my community”, he added.

Building Strategic Partnerships

The Seed Fair has fostered strategic partnerships in agriculture, connecting seed companies, agro-input dealers, researchers, and breeders. These collaborations have created sustainable solutions throughout the value chain, ensuring lasting sector impact

Kweku Turkson, NASTAG program coordinator remarked, “Fostering synergies between institutions like AGRA, Farm Radio International (FRI), and NASTAG, helped align our goals and objectives to help strengthen the seed sector. By involving regulators, researchers, and donors at every level of the value chain, we can move on the same line and sustainably grow the Ghanian seed sector.”

Amanda Anipu, AGRA Program Officer highlighted, “The Seed and Inputs Fair promotes the local seed companies supported through the AGRA-USAID PIATA program, to scale-up the production of improved seeds and improve access for smallholder farmers. The presence of the Plant Protection & Regulatory Services (PPRSD), under MoFA, was a guarantee that the products exhibited were qualified and trusted. “We are happy that farmers are adopting certified seeds and technology, as we acknowledge that optimum crop performance acts in consonance with the right application of crop protection products at the right time, and it all works towards building food security in Ghana.”

Transforming Communities and Futures

The Seed and Inputs Fair has ignited a wave of transformation across Ghanaian farming communities. Addressing the critical issue of seed and input accessibility has not only enhanced agricultural productivity but also improved livelihoods and fostered community development.

Farmers now save on commuting costs and reduce risks by accessing inputs locally, thanks to the fair. The use of certified seeds and agro-inputs has boosted technology adoption and crop yields, fostering sustainable partnerships between producers and local dealers. The fair has also spurred a growing interest in agriculture among the youth, who now see the sector as a viable path to financial stability and job opportunities. Bakhie, a youth farmer from Liplime commended FRI radio programs from which he gained valuable Knowledge including farming practices, considering weather conditions and soil nutrition. “I was able to expand my farm from 3 to 27 units. Assisting us with efficient farming systems like the rotation, was beneficial as it helps us to sustain the fertility of our soil.”

Peter Tanga, Farm Radio International Program officer and project mentioned, “Our focus is to use radio and ICT to provide agronomic information to the farmers. Farmers testified that through our programs they can link up with input dealers to buy certified seeds. Through the sensitization, a lot of farmers are attending the fairs and can access the inputs they need for the next farming season. I am excited to continue through this project and ensure that farmers receive the right information at the right time.”

The Seed and Inputs Fair is transforming Ghanaian agriculture by enhancing access to quality inputs, empowering women and youth, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering strategic partnerships.  This event’s impact transcends productivity, driving economic empowerment, social cohesion, and community development. The 2024 Seed and Inputs Fair stands as a beacon of hope, lighting the way to a brighter, more sustainable future for Ghanaian agriculture.

Powering Ethiopia’s Agricultural Transformation through Partnerships and Resource Mobilizations

Posted on by AGRA

(Addis Ababa, 7 October 2024)

Stakeholder partnerships, resource mobilization, and capacity building are becoming increasingly crucial for achieving agricultural development and enhancing the sustainability of food systems. AGRA is leading this movement, driving change, delivering resources, and transforming the agriculture landscape in Ethiopia. Its involvement goes beyond financial support; AGRA actively engages in policies, strategies, and programs to revitalize agriculture in Ethiopia.

In collaboration with the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), AGRA recently facilitated a two-day training program focused on resource mobilization and partnerships. The primary aim of this training was to equip MoA Directors and senior experts with essential knowledge and skills in grant writing, thereby enhancing their capacity for flagship program development and effective resource mobilization.

Nicholas Obare, Country Programs Lead of AGRA, emphasized the pivotal role in transforming agriculture through strategic policy engagement. He remarked, “Our partnership with the MoA empowers experts with the skills to drive significant reforms in flagship program development and resource mobilization. He reiterated that the current investment with MoA builds on the interventions undertaken under Strategy 2.0 and will focus on designing policy/regulatory reforms in support of flagship programs, supporting and coordinating the implementation of wheat, rice, and soybean flagship programs, addressing three micro/regulatory reform agendas prioritizing flagship programs and food system bottlenecks, strengthening the policy design and execution capacity of MoA and its affiliated institutions, putting in place and institutionalizing a digital tool for agriculture sector policy and regulatory tracking across agricultural sector institutions, and supporting the CAADP BR reporting process, public expenditure, NAIP, and food system review and regular updating.

During his welcome speech, Abera Mulat, Senior Advisor at the Ministry of Agriculture of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia expressed his appreciation for the training program. He said, “This initiative addresses a long-standing challenge: the limited capacity of staff to design and secure funding for specialized projects. Our Directors and experts can now develop comprehensive, high-resource plans essential for implementing the 10-year plan of the agriculture sector.” This newly developed capability will be crucial as the MOA seeks to implement projects that require substantial financial and technical resources.

Nicholas Obare, Country Programs Lead, AGRA-Ethiopia Office.
Abera Mulat,Senior Advisor, MoA

The two-day training program comprised an overview of the investments of AGRA in Ethiopia, strategies for resource mobilization in flagship implementation, and effective grant-writing techniques. Additionally, the participants received detailed guidance on leveraging the AGRA grant available to the MoA to advance their projects.

Ayele Gebreamlak, Program Officer at the AGRA-Ethiopia Office, presented an overview of AGRA’s investments in Ethiopia. He reiterated AGRA’s unwavering commitment to supporting the nation’s agricultural modernization efforts, aligning with Ethiopia’s broader development goals.

Dr Solomon Benor, Flagship Program Coordinator and AGRA secondee to the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) led the session titled “How to Mobilize Resources and Write a Successful Grant Proposal.” Dr Benor emphasized the interactive nature of the training, which included group assignments enabling MoA staff to develop a complete proposal focused on selected commodities. This practical approach ensured that participants had not only acquired theoretical knowledge but were also well-prepared to mobilize resources effectively after the workshop.

Ayele Gebreamlak, Program Officer,AGRA-Ethiopia Office
Dr Solomon Benor,Flagship Program Coordinator and AGRA Secondee to MoA

The partnership between AGRA and the MoA has a clear objective: to foster innovation and capacity building within local communities. By facilitating access to resources and providing ongoing technical assistance, AGRA plays a crucial role in unlocking the vast potential of Ethiopia’s agricultural sector. This collaboration has already yielded positive outcomes, with successful project implementations across several regions, demonstrating how targeted investments and strategic expertise can deliver tangible results.

 

As Ethiopia looks towards the future, the continued involvement of partners like AGRA will be indispensable. Their expertise, financial contributions, and technical guidance are vital to achieving food security and economic resilience in an increasingly unpredictable global environment. Strong partnerships will bring Ethiopia closer to its vision of a thriving, self-sufficient agricultural economy, promoting sustainability, food security, and long-term prosperity. Now is the time for stakeholders across the agriculture sector to build on the foundation laid by AGRA and others, uniting their efforts to ensure a brighter and more prosperous future for Ethiopia.

 

Enhancing Nutrition in Burkina Faso

Posted on by AGRA

Good nutrition can be considered one of the foundations of a healthy, productive society. It is essential for physical and cognitive development, disease prevention, and the overall well-being of society. Yet, across many parts of Africa, malnutrition remains a big challenge, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women and children. Addressing this challenge requires a multipronged approach that not only ensures food security but also promotes agricultural practices,

The drive toward improved nutrition is gaining traction through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives in Burkina Faso. The country’s Nutrition Programme, developed in collaboration with AGRA, is making noteworthy progress in addressing food security and enhancing the nutritional status of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.

At the heart of the country’s approach is a commitment to strengthening local food systems. This includes supporting smallholder farmers, promoting the cultivation of nutrient-rich crops, and ensuring that these foods reach the communities that need them most. Through its partnership with AGRA, the Nutrition Programme has been able to scale its efforts effectively.

One of the key aspects of the programme is the empowerment of women farmers. In Burkina Faso, women play a vital role in agricultural production, and the programme focuses on equipping them with the skills and resources needed to grow diverse, nutritious crops. By offering training in sustainable farming practices and improving access to quality seeds and inputs, the programme is helping women increase their yields and incomes, thereby supporting better nutrition for their families.

The programme also promotes the use of biofortified crops. These are grown to have higher nutrition content, with the aim of eradicating malnutrition among vulnerable populations and sustaining good nutritional health. The initiative supports local agricultural production through its contributions to the improvement of local food systems. To this end, it advocates for smallholder farmers’ rights, supports the cultivation of rich food varieties, and delivers such foods to the needy in time.

Enhancing market access for smallholder farmers is another crucial element of the Nutrition Programme’s success. With our support as AGRA, stronger value chains have been established, linking farmers to markets where they can sell their produce at fair prices. This not only boosts farmers’ incomes but also ensures that nutritious foods are more widely available in local markets.

As we continue to build on our achievements, the upcoming Africa Food Systems (AFS) Forum, taking place from 2nd to 6th September in Kigali, Rwanda, presents a critical opportunity for growth and collaboration. This forum will gather stakeholders from across the continent, providing a platform for Burkina Faso and even other markets to showcase their progress, share valuable lessons learned, and explore new partnerships to advance their nutrition agendas.

Looking ahead, the Africa Food Systems Forum, which will be held from September 2nd to 6th in Kigali, Rwanda, is an important opportunity for growth and collaboration. This forum will bring together stakeholders from across the continent, allowing Burkina Faso and other countries to display their achievements, share valuable lessons, and create new partnerships to advance continental nutrition agendas.

Looking at countries such as Tanzania, which has exemplified the potential of integrated agricultural strategies by biofortifying maize and other staple crops, which has helped address vitamin and mineral deficiencies at a large scale, we see significant progress in improving nutrition in African countries. Engaging with such success stories at the forum will provide valuable insights and incentives for improving nutrition initiatives in our various markets.

The AFS forum is a unique occasion for us to engage with other countries, development partners, and private sector players who share a commitment to transforming Africa’s food systems. By sharing lessons learned and forging new collaborations, Burkina Faso can continue to lead in creating resilient, nutrition-sensitive agricultural systems that benefit all.

Ghana is championing resilient nutrient-dense, climate-smart bean varieties

Posted on by AGRA

Ghana’s agricultural landscape, a lifeline for millions of smallholder farmers, is under siege. Erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and prolonged droughts wreak havoc on crops, threatening food security. Climate change’s relentless grip has particularly battered bean yields, escalating food insecurity. Adding to this, maternal and childhood anaemia rates are alarmingly high, prompting an urgent need for nutritional interventions.

Amid these challenges, the demand for legumes is on the rise. Common beans, with their immense potential, have emerged as a beacon of hope for Ghana’s agricultural future. Recognizing this, AGRA, in partnership with the Pan-Africa Bean Research Alliance (PABRA) and the Crop Research Institute under the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research of Ghana, has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative.

The tripatite partnership, aims to develop and deploy drought-tolerant, high iron bean (HIB) varieties tailored to Ghana’s unique Legume-Rice crop rotation. This ambitious project involves rigorous on-station and on-farm testing of advanced drought-tolerant, high iron and zinc bean lines. The ultimate goal is the release of robust varieties that not only thrive in Ghana’s challenging climate but also enhance soil health and crop yields.

 

To date, two groundbreaking varieties, “Adoye” and “Ennepa,” have been introduced. These beans are not just climate-resilient but also nutrient-rich, addressing both environmental and nutritional challenges. With 600 kg of Adoye and 200 kg of Ennepa breeder seeds already produced, the future looks promising. Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) have been signed with four private companies, and breeder seeds have been supplied to two companies to produce foundation seeds under expert supervision.

The impact of this initiative extends far beyond just crop yields. By ensuring a resilient supply of nutrient-dense, climate-smart bean varieties, this project promises to improve food security, enhance farmer livelihoods, and significantly reduce the prevalence of maternal and childhood anaemia in Ghana.

Through innovative partnerships and forward-thinking solutions, Ghana’s bean revolution is paving the way for a sustainable and secure agricultural future.