CULTIVATING PARTNERSHIPS, HARVESTING HOPE:

HOW THE NETHERLANDS IS EMPOWERING GHANA’S AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION

In a bold and timely demonstration of international solidarity, the Embassy of the Royal Netherlands in Ghana is cultivating the foundations of a transformative agricultural era one firmly anchored in collaboration, local empowerment, and sustainable innovation. On 26 May 2025, the Netherlands’ Vice Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature, Marten van den Berg, convened with prominent Ghanaian stakeholders at the Dutch Embassy in Ghana for a landmark gathering that heralded a comprehensive new roadmap for agricultural cooperation between the two nations.

Marten van den Berg, Vice Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature

This high-level engagement attracted a diverse array of participants, including government policymakers, industry leaders, agribusiness entrepreneurs, and representatives from local farmer groups. The discussions centered on pragmatic strategies aimed at addressing Ghana’s persistent food insecurity and establishing a resilient, self-sustaining food system that benefits local communities and enhances food sovereignty.

For Vice Versa Media Ghana, a nonprofit media organization dedicated to impactful storytelling and advocacy, this gathering marked a significant validation of our mission to illuminate the often-overlooked efforts of those shaping Ghana’s agricultural landscape and future. Through this collaboration, we aim to amplify the voices of local farmers and innovators, ensuring that their stories and insights are at the forefront of agricultural development in the region.

The Dutch Ambassador to Ghana, Jeroen Verhoe

A PARTNERSHIP ROOTED IN PURPOSE

For decades, the Dutch government has played a pivotal role in supporting Ghana’s agricultural advancement, contributing essential technical expertise, financial investment, and innovative strategies through various development agencies. Over the years, initiatives have spanned a range of sectors, from cocoa production, one of Ghana’s most significant exports, to horticulture, which has seen a burgeoning market. Dutch interventions have focused on enhancing post-harvest handling techniques, streamlining agricultural logistics, and promoting food safety standards, all aimed at improving the livelihoods of local farmers.

The Dutch Ambassador to Ghana, Jeroen Verhoe, emphasized this collaborative commitment.

“Our priority areas are cocoa and horticulture,” he stated. “When I arrived in Ghana, I was shocked to see bell peppers imported from the Netherlands in local supermarkets. This observation reflects a missed opportunity, as Ghana has the ideal climate and resources to grow its food. We are dedicated to facilitating this transition and bridging that gap between potential and reality.”

To address the challenges faced by Ghanaian agriculture, Dutch enterprises are introducing a range of transformative tools, from climate-smart agricultural technologies, such as precision farming and sustainable irrigation systems, to comprehensive supply chain optimization solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce waste.

The Embassy’s latest initiative builds on this legacy of collaboration, bringing together 19 Dutch and Ghanaian organizations into a consolidated working group. This coalition aims to develop and implement a detailed, actionable cooperation plan that will address critical aspects of Ghana’s agricultural development, ensuring sustainable practices that benefit both the economy and the environment. By fostering these partnerships, the Netherlands is committed to nurturing a vibrant agricultural sector in Ghana that can meet local demands and elevate the country’s position in global markets.

Anja de Feijter on the left and Dr. Naalamle Amissah on the right

THE UNTAPPED POWER OF INDIGENOUS CROPS

Despite its fertile lands and the dedication of its farming communities, Ghana continues to grapple with a significant dependence on food imports, which often leads to vulnerability in its food security. Experts insist that the solution lies not in relying on foreign supply chains but rather in tapping into the rich potential of Ghana’s indigenous crops and traditional farming practices.

Dr. Naalamle Amissah, a prominent crop scientist at the University of Ghana, emphasizes the critical need for innovation within the agricultural sector. “If we can introduce high-quality seeds that are suitable for different climate zones and provide comprehensive training for the youth, we can significantly improve our food security,” she stated. “Empowering communities to cultivate local crops and develop a culture of consuming what they grow is essential for sustainable development.”

Anja de Feijter, the Commercial Area Manager for Bakker Brothers, also highlights a promising trend among Ghana’s youth. She notes that an increasing number of young professionals are turning away from traditional careers in banking to pursue agricultural ventures, particularly in horticulture. “We are seeing young bankers making the courageous decision to quit their stable jobs to cultivate tomatoes, okra, and peppers and they are often earning more than they did in their previous positions. This shift represents a transformative change in the perception of farming, showcasing it as a viable and profitable career for the new generation.” she shared.

This growing interest in agriculture among the youth signals a potential shift in Ghana’s agricultural landscape, where a blend of modern techniques and traditional practices could pave the way for a more self-sufficient and resilient food system.

MAKING AGRICULTURE “SEXY” AGAIN

One recurring theme at the recent gathering was the urgent need to rebrand agriculture for Ghana’s youth, a demographic increasingly disengaged from traditional farming practices. Farming must no longer be viewed as a form of punishment or tedious labor; instead, it should be recognized as a legitimate path to entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic prosperity.

“Agriculture has to be repositioned in the minds of young people. It’s not just about planting and harvesting anymore; it’s about integrating technology think hydroponics, smart irrigation systems, and drone mapping. These are modern tools that resonate with the tech-savvy youth of today. We must make agriculture sexy and appealing.” Dr. Amissah, emphasized

At Vice Versa Media Ghana, we have embraced this transformative mission wholeheartedly. Through compelling visual storytelling and grassroots feature stories, we create multimedia content that challenges outdated perceptions and actively shapes a new narrative around farming. Our productions include farmer-centered documentaries that highlight pioneering agri-entrepreneurs, engaging YouTube series that provide insights into innovative farming techniques, and dynamic Instagram training reels aimed at empowering aspiring young farmers with the strategies for success.

Anja de Feijter, a prominent figure in agricultural media, underscored the importance of our work, stating: “The media plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions. Vice Versa Media Ghana’s stories possess the power to inspire through our relatable narratives, we make agriculture not only achievable but also desirable for the younger generation.” This approach is essential for attracting passionate young individuals to the agricultural sector, ensuring the sustainability and growth of Ghana’s farming industry.

FROM POLICY TO PRACTICE: THE DUTCH BLUEPRINT

Beyond storytelling, the Dutch government is actively supporting Ghana through a series of targeted, ground-level interventions aimed at revitalizing the country’s agricultural sector. Among these efforts is the Netherlands’ pioneering implementation of advanced cold chain solutions, which allow for the preservation of perishable goods from farm to market. Improvements in packaging materials and transport logistics are being put in place to combat the persistent issues that have long hindered Ghana’s agricultural productivity.

“Tomatoes often arrive at markets in a crushed state due to inadequate transport systems, leading to significant financial losses for farmers. By introducing simple yet effective innovations, we can drastically reduce these losses, enhancing the entire supply chain.”  explained Ambassador Verhoe.

He emphasized that logistics and agri-tech advancements are not just beneficial but essential for the transformation of Ghana’s agricultural landscape.

In addition, the Dutch-supported Ghana Green Label initiative plays a crucial role in building consumer trust in locally grown food. By certifying the quality of Ghanaian produce, this initiative empowers consumers to consciously choose Ghana-grown products over imports, fostering a sense of pride and supporting local farmers.

Vice Minister van den Berg recognized the structural challenges facing the agricultural sector but expressed a sense of optimism about potential change. “Altering consumer habits and improving farming practices takes time,” he acknowledged. “However, we are fully committed to this journey. Whether it’s facilitating access to financing for smallholder farmers, advocating for necessary policy reforms, or providing hands-on training for agricultural practices, the Netherlands stands ready to support Ghana every step of the way.”

CONCLUSION: A HARVEST OF HOPE

The agriculture cooperation meeting was more than a diplomatic affair it was a call to collective action. By embracing indigenous food systems, attracting youth, and investing in innovation, Ghana can redefine its food future. And with the Netherlands as a steadfast partner and Vice Versa Media Ghana as a storytelling ally the dream of food security is not just a possibility, but an approaching reality.

Together, we can cultivate a new narrative. One where Ghana feeds itself, and the world takes