The Agrihouse Foundation, a non-governmental organization specializing in agricultural capacity building, innovation, and project management, recently conducted its 15th AgriWoman marketplace exhibition. Held in Dzorwulu, Accra, this event showcased the entrepreneurial spirit of women in agriculture, particularly those involved in agro-processing.
Developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the AgriWoman marketplace serves as a platform for women to exhibit and sell their agricultural products. It also provides a networking opportunity and aims to shift perceptions and conversations about women's roles in agriculture. This year's participants ranged from women involved in agricultural mechanization to those processing products within food and beverages, as well as fashion and beauty.
Alberta Akosa, the Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, highlighted the initiative's commitment to helping these women entrepreneurs penetrate both local and international markets. “Despite financial challenges, the foundation fully funds this initiative and continues its monthly marketplace to support these women in their businesses,” she stated.
The impact of the event has been substantial, with many participants expanding their networks and reaching markets in South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, and the United Kingdom. The Food and Drugs Authority has also supported the participants by helping them register their products, enhancing their market compliance and reach.
Looking forward, Ms. Akosa shared plans to adopt innovative approaches to further support these entrepreneurs and expand the initiative to include rural women producers. This next step aims to increase exposure and support for women in more remote areas, starting from the following month.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunities provided by the AgriWoman marketplace. Madam Peggy Ofori, an agro-processor, recounted her experiences travelling to Kenya with her products, thanks to the exposure gained through the event. Similarly, Ms. Safuratu Yussif Sulley, involved in beauty products, acknowledged the significant support and exposure she received.
The exhibition featured a diverse array of products including fashion items like bags and hats, as well as food products such as shito, granola, chia seeds, shea butter, Dawadawa powder, peanut butter, and cocoa. There were also non-food items like machetes and footwear, showcasing the broad range of agribusinesses run by women in Ghana.
This ongoing initiative by the Agrihouse Foundation continues to empower women in agriculture, helping them to grow their businesses and make a significant impact on both local and global markets.
