As part of activities to climax its Grow Ghana initiative, Yara Ghana Limited has donated one thousand, one hundred and seven bags of YaraMila Actyva fertilizer to vulnerable groups and farmers.

This includes 396 women farmers, among whom are 21 physically challenged farmers. Each recipient received three bags of fertilizer to bolster their efforts in enhancing food sustainability and security in Ghana.

The Grow Ghana Initiative was launched by Yara Ghana in response to the challenges faced by farmers due to the Russia-Ukraine war, which impacted access to affordable fertilizers across Africa. Yara International responded rapidly to this crisis by donating premium fertilizers valued at USD 20 million to smallholder farmers in Ghana through Yara Ghana Ltd. This donation reduced their cost per acre by 33.3% and increased food system resilience.

Supported by development partners such as AFAP, AGRA, and USAID, the Grow Ghana Initiative has led to increased staple crop productivity, resilient farming systems, and economic impact within Ghana.

The initiative has also created jobs for over 500 youth and provided vital agronomic knowledge to boost productivity and support farmers effectively. Overall, the Grow Ghana Initiative has been a success story, contributing to agricultural sustainability and prosperity in Ghana.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Yara Grow Ghana initiative held in Koforidua on Monday, March 18, 2024, Mrs Theresa Randolph, the Managing Director of Yara Ghana, stated that over the last two years, Yara Ghana, through its Yara Grow Ghana Initiative, ensured that smallholder farmers had access to enough fertilizer to sustain food production in the country. According to her, a total of 18,000 tons, equivalent to 360,000 of 50kg bags of YaraMila Actyva fertilizer, has been donated to smallholder farmers.

Mrs Randolph highlighted the positive impact of the Grow Ghana Initiative, noting that it has not only increased agricultural productivity but also improved livelihoods and contributed to food security in Ghana.

Furthermore, she emphasized Yara Ghana's ongoing commitment to innovation and technology in agriculture, citing initiatives such as digital farming solutions and agronomic training programmes tailored to the specific needs of farmers. She announced plans for future collaborations and investments aimed at further enhancing the resilience and profitability of smallholder farmers across the country.

"Yara Ghana is dedicated to supporting farmers on their journey towards sustainable agriculture, resilience, and prosperity. I urge all stakeholders to continue working together towards a vibrant and inclusive agricultural sector that benefits farmers, communities, and the nation as a whole," she added.

Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo, the Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, commended Yara Ghana for its impactful Grow Ghana Initiative, which has significantly enhanced agricultural productivity and sustainability.

He acknowledged the critical role that Yara Ghana has played in supporting smallholder farmers, particularly women and farmers with disabilities, by providing essential resources and technical assistance to improve crop yields and livelihoods.

The Deputy Minister highlighted the broader implications of the Grow Ghana Initiative, emphasizing how it has contributed to national food security, economic growth, and poverty reduction. He noted that the initiative aligns with the government's priorities and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development.

Hon. Addo also spoke about the importance of collaboration and partnership in advancing agricultural development, stressing the need for continued support from all stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, private sector actors, and civil society organizations. He emphasized the role of public-private partnerships in driving innovation, investment, and capacity-building in the agricultural sector.

Furthermore, the Deputy Minister expressed appreciation for Yara Ghana's efforts in creating job opportunities for the youth through the Grow Ghana Initiative, highlighting the positive impact on local communities and the broader economy. He encouraged other companies and organizations to follow Yara Ghana's example by investing in agriculture and empowering farmers for sustainable development.

He also reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote agricultural sustainability, food security, and economic prosperity. He commended Yara Ghana for its remarkable contributions and urged all stakeholders to continue working together towards a resilient and inclusive agricultural sector in Ghana.

Addressing the gathering, the Gyasehene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, Nana Twumasi Dankwa, speaking on behalf of the Omanhene of the New Juaben Traditional Council, Daasebre Kwaku Boateng Ababia III, stated that agriculture has always been the backbone of the economy.

"It sustains livelihoods, fosters development, and ensures food security for the people. As we look back on their history, we see the resilience and resourcefulness of the farmers who have toiled tirelessly to cultivate the land and bring forth its bounty. Their efforts have not only fed the nation but have also contributed significantly to the growth and prosperity of Ghana as a whole.

The New Juaben Traditional Council wholeheartedly acknowledges the vital role that farmers play in shaping the landscape of the economy and society. Their commitment to their craft, their deep connection to the land, and their unwavering spirit of perseverance inspire them all," he added

He also called for more initiatives like this that seek to help farmers harness the potential of agriculture to drive economic development, improve livelihoods, and build a brighter future for generations to come.

As a gesture of gratitude for Yara Ghana's continuous support to the agricultural sector, the Eastern Regional Agriculture Directorate presented a sponsorship appreciation certificate to Yara Ghana Limited for sponsoring and supporting the 3rd Edition of the Eastern Commodity Satellite Market Fair.

Dignitaries present at the closing ceremony of Yara Ghana’s Grow Ghana initiative included Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo Deputy Agric Minister, Hajia Habiba Yusufu, Eastern Regional Agric Director, Tharzia Numako Akwetey, New Juaben South Municipal Director of Agric, and Elvis Duodu, a representative from the Department of Social Welfare.

Others include, Hon. Isaac Appaw Gyadie, New Juaben South MCE, Emmanuel Amemu, New Juaben North Agric Director, DCOP Twumasi, Eastern Regional Police Commander, ACP Richard Appiah, Eastern Regional Deputy Police Commander, Hon. Dr Kwasi Asante, New Juaben North MCE, Rachel Adjoa Amofa Deputy Director, Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, and Samuel K. Dzisah, Suhum Municipal Agric Director.

Gyasehene of New Juaben Traditional Area, Dr Godfred Owusu, Eastern Regional Agronomist - Seedco Frederica Siaw Regional Sales Admin- Seedco Hon.Seth Kwame Akyeam and Ama Henewaa, the 2023 Eastern Regional Best Woman Farmer.