Young female agripreneurs have outlined actionable strategies to overcome systemic barriers in Ghana’s agricultural sector during a World Food Forum (WFF) dialogue at the University of Energy and Natural Resources.
The July 18 forum convened 150 students and entrepreneurs who identified critical challenges including funding shortages, gender bias, and inadequate mentorship.
Seven student panelists—operating ventures from mango seed upcycling to dehydrated tomatoes—shared firsthand accounts. Pearl Seyram Adoboli highlighted mentorship gaps: “Creative ideas exist, but supportive networks don’t.” Bernice Donkor addressed cultural resistance: “We’re told farming isn’t for women—that narrative must change.” Vida Agbetsiafa detailed equipment constraints in her juice-processing enterprise, urging business-skills training.
Key recommendations emerged for policymakers and institutions. Participants advocated for gender-responsive agricultural policies and simplified startup regulations to encourage women’s participation. Improved funding access through grants and low-interest loans was prioritized alongside infrastructure development for processing underutilized crops like cashew fruit. Structured mentorship programs connecting students with industry experts and localized financial literacy training were deemed essential.
WFF Ghana Director Alberta Akosa confirmed these insights will shape pilot initiatives for the UN’s 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer. “Youth and women are vital architects of food systems,” she stated, announcing plans to scale youth-led solutions nationally. The University’s Ernest Mbawini pledged curriculum reforms to integrate practical agribusiness training.
The dialogue aligns with Ghana’s efforts to reduce post-harvest losses estimated at 30-40% for perishables while advancing Sustainable Development Goals on gender equality and food security. FAO representative Amanda Mrad emphasized via video link that “young women must be at the center of decisions shaping agrifood systems,” commending Ghana’s grassroots engagement model.
