GHANA HARVESTS HOPE: THE 8TH EDITION OF THE FRUITS AND VEGETABLE FAIR

The 8th edition of the Fruits and Vegetable Fair at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum provided an enlightening peek into the future of Ghana’s horticulture sector. Vice Versa Media Ghana was thrilled to act as a media partner and supporter of the 8th Ghana Fruit and Vegetable Fair, a significant event organized and presented by Ghana Vegetables, IDH, and Horticulture Business Platforms, with funding from the Embassy of the Royal Netherlands. Our partnership contributed extensive coverage and expertise, amplifying the event’s impact and reach.

This three-day event aimed to display the potential and significance of the horticulture industry in Ghana. It served as a platform for vendors from different regions of the country to exhibit a diverse range of locally grown produce. The event not only promoted local horticulture but also highlighted its role as a potential avenue for international trade. The chosen theme, “Harnessing the Gains of the Horticulture Sector,” sought to draw attention to the economic potential and critical role of horticulture in ensuring food security. Overall, the event acted as a powerful catalyst, urging stakeholders and the public to recognize and support the horticulture industry’s substantial impact on economic growth and food sustainability.

Fresh produce on display

A Celebration of Homegrown Produce

The fruit and vegetable fair, set against the backdrop of the statue of Ghana’s first Prime Minister and President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, was a vibrant celebration of Ghana’s agricultural heritage. The event sought to challenge prevailing attitudes towards horticulture, particularly in light of the declining interest of young people in farming. The showcase of produce served not only as a testament to the vital role of agriculture in providing nutrition but also as a symbol of the untapped potential for growth and economic empowerment within the agricultural sector. Throughout the three-day event, attendees were treated to a visually stunning and diverse array of fruits and vegetables, with each vendor proudly presenting the finest agricultural produce of Ghana. The Memorial Park became an explosion of color, fragrance, and flavor as visitors were greeted by an assortment of fresh produce, from luscious tomatoes to succulent oranges. This fair highlighted the rich tapestry of Ghana’s agricultural landscape and underscored the significant potential of locally grown products in both domestic and international markets.

Vendors lined up at the exhibition

Horticulture’s Future: Innovation and Partnerships

For decades, agriculture has been the backbone of Ghana’s economy, driving growth and development. However, in the face of emerging challenges, modernizing and optimizing horticultural practices has become imperative. Recognizing this need, the Horticulture Business Platform (HBP), the visionary organizers of the fair, underscored the vital importance of innovation and strategic international partnerships in shaping the future trajectory of horticulture in Ghana.

“Catherine Krobo Edusei, Chairwoman of the Horticulture Business Platform, delivered a passionate keynote address, emphasizing the urgent need for cutting-edge farming techniques to ensure the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s agricultural sector. She stressed that adopting modern agricultural practices is crucial to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, enhance productivity, and boost the competitiveness of Ghana’s horticulture industry globally.

Chairwoman of Horticulture Business Platform Catherine Krobo Edusei

“There is vast potential for growth in the agricultural sector with the aid of modern technology and effective water management,” Catherine noted. “We need to channel water to areas where farmers can access it, particularly during droughts. By harnessing excess water during rainy seasons and storing it in dams, we can ensure a steady water supply throughout the year. Our engineers should collaborate to divert water to dams for farming use, reducing our reliance on rainfall. While the initial investment may be substantial, developing infrastructure is essential to support the sector.”

Catherine highlighted the significance of partnerships, particularly with the Royal Netherlands Embassy, in introducing modern farming techniques that have enhanced productivity and sustainability. “Integrating new irrigation systems on farms is vital to ensure crops receive adequate care, even during droughts,” she emphasized.

Catherine also pointed out that Ghana’s fertile farmlands are often lost to disasters like dam spillages and illegal mining, which could otherwise be utilized to feed the nation. She encouraged Ghanaians to embrace agriculture in their daily lives by supporting local farmers, even in small ways.

The Farmer’s Role in Society

Farmers are the backbone of the economy and society, playing a multifaceted role beyond food production. It is important to ensure a sustainable and food-secured future by supporting and empowering farmers. This includes investing in agricultural infrastructure, promoting sustainable practices, and providing access to markets, credit, and technology. Recognizing the critical role of farmers, Barnabas Atunu, project Lead from the Horticulture Business Platform emphasized their importance, likening farmers to doctors as food is essential for bodily function.

Project Coordinator for HBP, Barnabas Apum

“The farmer is as important as the doctor because, without food, the body cannot function,” he stated, drawing a direct connection between agriculture and the overall health and well-being of society. He did not shy away from the challenges facing Ghana’s horticulture sector. Barnabas cited the collapse of once-thriving farms like Darko Farms, attributing it to low patronage and lack of financial support. He lamented that many Ghanaian youth do not see farming as a viable career path, which has led to a decline in interest in agriculture as an occupation. “The youth do not see much of a future in farming, making it a distant attraction to them,” Barnabas noted. He also stressed the need for financial investment in horticulture, acknowledging support from international partners like the Royal Netherlands Embassy and NGOs. Continued collaboration is vital for the sector’s growth.

Field of Tulips in the Netherlands

The Netherlands: A Key Player in Ghana’s Horticultural Future

The impact of the Netherlands on Ghana’s horticulture sector was further emphasized by Bram van Opijnen, a representative from the Royal Netherlands Embassy. During the fair, Bram highlighted the inherent potential for horticulture in Ghana. As a leading authority in horticulture, the Netherlands has played a key role in introducing advanced farming techniques and technologies that have enhanced productivity in Ghana. Bram also encouraged Ghanaian youth to consider farming, emphasizing that the sector has the potential to yield significant returns if managed properly. His words were a reminder that horticulture is not just a trade but a lucrative business with the potential to transform lives and communities.

First secretary of the Royal Netherlands Embassy, Bram Van Opijnen

A Colorful Showcase of Local Goods

The fair was a lively event, with vendors from various parts of the country proudly showcasing their produce. From leafy greens to exotic fruits, the assortment of fruits and vegetables highlighted the vast diversity of Ghana’s agricultural products. Visitors to the Memorial Park had the chance to interact with vendors, learn about the different types of produce, and even make purchases, directly supporting the farmers and businesses present.

The vibrant colors of the fruits and vegetables lit up the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, offering a stark contrast to the solemnity of the Mausoleum. It was a celebration of life, growth, and the potential that agriculture holds for the nation’s future. Events like these provide an important platform for vendors and farmers to connect with the public, fostering a greater appreciation for locally grown produce.

Fresh tomatoes on exhibition

Changing the Narrative: The Role of Fairs in Promoting Local Agriculture

The Fruits and Vegetable Fair represents more than just a marketplace for agricultural goods; it is part of a broader effort to change the narrative around local agriculture in Ghana. For far too long, there has been a heavy reliance on imported foods, which not only strains the economy but also undermines the potential of Ghana’s agricultural sector.

Patrons at the fair

Fairs like this serve as a reminder that Ghana can produce a wide range of fruits and vegetables. By supporting local farmers, consumers can contribute to the growth of the economy. The fair also provided an opportunity for farmers and vendors to network, exchange ideas, and learn from each other, further strengthening the sector.

As Barnabas pointed out, “Fairs like this go a long way to change the narrative and encourage the patronage of homegrown foods.” By promoting local agriculture, the Fruits and Vegetable Fair is helping to pave the way for a more sustainable and self-sufficient future for Ghana.

Harnessing the Gains of Horticulture

The 8th edition of the Fruits and Vegetable Fair was not just a showcase of Ghana’s agricultural potential; it was a call to action. The fair highlighted innovative farming techniques introduced through international partnerships and showcased a vibrant display of local produce. It underscored the importance of investing in the horticulture sector to ensure its growth and sustainability.

Conclusion

As Ghana grapples with challenges such as climate change, youth disinterest, and financial constraints, events like the Fruits and Vegetable Fair offer hope for the future. By adopting modern farming practices, supporting local farmers, and fostering international collaborations, Ghana can benefit from its horticulture sector and become a more resilient, food-secure nation.

In the words of Catherine, “We have fertile lands that can feed the country. It’s time we put them to good use.” With the support of both local and international stakeholders, the future of horticulture in Ghana looks promising.