In various regions of Ghana, Women farmers and farmers with disabilities are showcasing remarkable resilience and determination – making a significant impact in their communities.
In 2019, Agrihouse Foundation embarked on a journey to search for, recognise, celebrate and highlight the works and farm activities of these inspiring individuals, making waves in agriculture within their communities through the Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & the Gold in the Soil Awards.
This annually rotational journey has, so far, taken us to the Volta, Ashanti, Upper East, Upper West, Western and Western North Regions, where we have collectively brought together, trained, empowered, equipped and resourced, these exceptional women whom we believe are the Seed and Soul of Agriculture.
From their 1 acre to over 100 acres of farmlands, their contributions to ensuring good nutrition, economic growth, and food security cannot be overlooked.
With support from Global Affairs Canada, Yara Ghana and RDF Ghana LBG, the annual WOFAGRIC and the Gold in the Soil Awards have provided a vital platform and motivated a paradigm shift of projecting and celebrating women farmers, farmers with disabilities, processors, service providers and value chain actors, one region at a time.
The annual intervention has also showcased the exceptional achievements of over 1000 farmers with disabilities, while shedding light on their invaluable contributions to the agricultural sector.
It is always overwhelming, when we learn of the unique skills, capabilities and abilities of these farmers and their role in driving agricultural development and community empowerment.
These physically challenged farmers’ stories exemplify their determination and resilience in pursuing their farming endeavours despite the challenges they face.
From cultivating crops to rearing livestock, these farmers with disabilities have overcome societal barriers and showcased exceptional skills and abilities in agricultural practices. Their efforts have not only provided them with a means of livelihood, but have also contributed to food security and economic development in their respective communities.
As Agrihouse Foundation’s WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards draw closer, it is crucial to rally behind the cause and provide continued support for women farmers with disabilities. By further providing the needed training, mentorship and motivational talks while celebrating their stories and achievements, Agrihouse Foundation has set a precedent for inclusive agricultural practices and emphasised the importance of empowering these individuals.
For 5 years now, Agrihouse Foundation’s communications and production team annually embarks on regional tour in search of women farmers and farmers with disabilities to recognise, train, reward and highlight their extraordinary farm activities and their significant contributions within their communities.
This, as indicated earlier, has taken us to various villages, communities, districts and regions.
We have been profoundly blessed to meet over 1000 women farmers with disabilities, on our journey. Today, we would like to share some of their stories with you, and we are confident that after this read, you will very much agree with us that indeed, women are the Gold in the Soil. They are the Heart of the Farm. They are the Seed and Soul of Agriculture. The question remains: Are there friendly policies and direction to protect farmers with disabilities? What efforts and measures are being put in place to support this amazing group of people? Are the works of government and development partners enough to equipping and resourcing farmers with disabilities? What is being done now? What can we do better?
Last year in the Western North Region, we had the privilege of visiting the farm of 52-year-old Madam Rebecca Asamoah. Despite being visually impaired, Madam Rebecca continues to inspire everyone around her. As a maize, cocoa and plantain farmer, her ability to cultivate over ten acres with ease is truly remarkable. Her exceptional skills and dedication earned her the prestigious ‘Special Superwoman Award’ in the Gold in the Soil Awards category. Madam Rebecca also dedicates herself to empowering and supporting young women in her community, guiding them in adopting best farming practices and becoming sustainable farmers.
Also in Western North last year, we had the pleasure of documenting the story of Ophelia Ackah, a remarkable woman farmer with disabilities who owns a four-acre cocoa and palm nut farm. Ophelia’s achievements go beyond her disabilities, and they are a testament to her strength and determination. Recently, she expanded her business by establishing a successful oil processing factory, creating job opportunities for over 23 young people in her community.
In 2021, in the town of Adamkologa, nestled in the Upper East Region of Ghana, we encountered Alima Wahabu, an extraordinary maize and soya bean farmer who has overcome physical barriers to achieve remarkable success.
Alima’s inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope and determination, leaving a lasting impact on her community. Despite facing physical challenges, she has persevered and excelled in the field of agriculture, becoming a source of inspiration for others. Alima’s recognition as a maize and soya bean farmer is a testament to her exceptional skills and the significant impact she has made in her community, highlighting the immense potential of individuals with disabilities in the agricultural sector.
Another remarkable farmer we met is Agatha Bosompim, who hails from the Western Region. With unwavering determination, Agatha skilfully produces cassava, maize and plantain on her two-acre land. Her exceptional hard work and perseverance have been recognised and awarded, solidifying her position as an inspiration to others in the agricultural sector.
During our journey, we also came across a ten-year-old pupil-farmer, Esther Ofori, from Dzatokrom – Sefwi Wiawso District, who cultivates a two-acre maize and yam farm. Through the WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards, we have been able to support, put Esther fully in school, and supplied her with basic necessities. But will her parents, allow her to fully focus on her education?
The presence of children, especially those with disabilities, in farming raises important questions about their well-being and the actions required by stakeholders to address this issue.
It prompts us to reflect on whether it is right for children in the remote areas to engage in farming.
It is essential for stakeholders to come together, deliberate and implement measures that ensure the well-being and safety of these children.
By addressing these concerns, stakeholders can ensure a better future for children with disabilities and create an environment where they can thrive without compromising their well-being.
The remarkable stories of these farmers with disabilities highlight their resilience, determination and immense contributions to the agricultural sector. Their achievements inspire us to support and empower individuals with disabilities, creating an inclusive agricultural community that recognises and values the potential of every farmer, regardless of their abilities.
While acknowledging the remarkable resilience displayed by these farmers, it is crucial to recognise the need for comprehensive support to ensure their ongoing prosperity. It is imperative to assess the existence of targeted government policies aimed at aiding farmers with disabilities and identify areas that require additional assistance. By emphasising this critical aspect, we aim to stimulate dialogue and advocate for enhanced support and inclusive policies that cater for the distinct requirements of farmers with disabilities.
At Agrihouse Foundation, we believe to ensure the ongoing prosperity of farmers with disabilities, the stakeholders must provide comprehensive support and possibly consider strengthening the following areas: implementation of targeted policies, provision of adaptive farming tools, offering mobility aids, support with assistive technology, provision of tailored personal protective equipment (PPE).
What is your opinion on this: Is it right for children to farm, much more a child with disability, and what can stakeholders do to ensure this is corrected?
Scheduled to take place in Koforidua, Eastern Region on July 26-27, 2023, the Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & the Gold in the Soil Awards will play a pivotal role in recognising and empowering these exceptional individuals. Through this initiative, their achievements will be brought to the forefront, garnering well-deserved attention and appreciation. Agrihouse Foundation’s commitment to supporting women farmers with disabilities through their WOFAGRIC initiative has further enhanced their visibility and access to resources.
About WOFAGRIC & the Gold in the Soil Awards
Agrihouse Foundation’s Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC) & the Gold in the Soil Awards is an annual event that strengthens and promotes a paradigm shift in celebrating women farmers, processors, marketers, and individuals contributing to the agricultural value chain. These awards acknowledge the remarkable efforts of women in various sectors, including transportation, packaging, technology, and input dealers. Every year, the event moves from region to region, searching for these extraordinary women who play a significant role in putting food on our tables. Regardless of their abilities, they are striving to contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector.
Highlighting remarkable contributions: The WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards serve as platforms to celebrate and showcase the outstanding achievements of women in agriculture and farmers with disabilities. These individuals have displayed incredible resilience and determination in pursuing their farming endeavours despite societal barriers. From cultivating crops to rearing livestock, they have not only provided for their livelihoods, but also contributed to food security and economic development in their communities.
Transforming lives: Through the WOFAGRIC initiative, Agrihouse Foundation has significantly enhanced the visibility and access to resources for women farmers with disabilities. By featuring their stories and achievements, these exceptional individuals are being recognised and empowered. The Gold in the Soil Awards, a prestigious recognition, further amplifies their accomplishments and inspires others to follow their footsteps. This comprehensive support has created a positive impact on the lives of farmers with disabilities, fostering a sense of inclusivity and ensuring their long-term prosperity.
Promoting inclusive agricultural practices: The annual WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards have become catalysts for promoting inclusive agricultural practices. Agrihouse Foundation’s commitment to recognising the unique talents of farmers with disabilities sets a precedent for an inclusive and diverse agricultural sector. By showcasing the achievements of these individuals, the foundation emphasises the importance of breaking societal barriers and empowering all farmers, regardless of their abilities.
Government support and collaboration: While Agrihouse Foundation has made significant strides in empowering farmers with disabilities, comprehensive support from the government, stakeholders, and the wider community is vital. It is crucial to assess the existing policies and identify areas that require additional assistance. By advocating for inclusive policies and providing necessary tools, resources, and adaptive technologies, we can ensure that farmers with disabilities have equal opportunities to thrive and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector.
In conclusion the Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards by Agrihouse Foundation, with support from Global Affairs Canada, Yara Ghana, RDF Ghana LBG, have made a lasting impact on the lives of farmers with disabilities in Ghana. By recognising their remarkable contributions and promoting inclusive agricultural practices, these initiatives have transformed the narrative surrounding farmers with disabilities. Continued support from the government, stakeholders, and the wider community is crucial to sustain this positive change and empower all farmers to reach their full potential. Together, we can build an inclusive agricultural sector that celebrates diversity and drives the progress of our communities.
