On Wednesday, April 9th, the PK Amoabeng Scholars embarked on a journey that would leave a lasting impact on their perspectives about business culture, and values. Their destination was Blue Skies Ghana, one of the country’s most innovative fresh fruit processing and export companies. What started as a simple educational trip soon became an eye-opening experience into how a business can succeed commercially while staying deeply rooted in purpose, ethics, and community. Set in the vibrant Doboro factory, near Nsawam in the Eastern Region, the visit offered a powerful blend of learning, reflection, and inspiration.
Blue Skies’ journey began with one man’s determination to think beyond convention; Anthony Pile, a former British army officer. After being told it wasn’t possible to produce fresh-cut fruit in Africa, he set out to prove otherwise. He believed that Africa had an abundance of flavorful fruits, grown in conditions ideal for freshness. With this conviction, Anthony came to Ghana in 1998, where he saw an opportunity not just to serve fresh fruit, but to build a company that would create value for both customers abroad and communities at home. Starting with 14 boxes of pineapples packed by hand, Blue Skies has grown into a global agro-processing brand, with operations in the UK, South Africa, Brazil, and Egypt, anchored by a model that champions value at the source.
This story, along with the journey behind the company’s growth, was shared with the scholars by Mr. Alistair Djimatey, the Public Affairs Manager of Blue Skies Ghana. From the early challenges to the evolution of the brand, Mr. Djimatey walked the team through how Blue Skies remained consistent with its values while adapting to changes in the market. His session set the tone for the visit, offering a broader perspective on what it truly means to build a purpose-driven company.
The scholars also learned about the company’s strong focus on sustainability and local empowerment. Blue Skies operates with a zero-waste policy, ensuring that every part of the fruit is put to use, whether as compost for farms or as ingredients for new products. Over 5,000 tons of organic waste is repurposed annually. This is part of a bigger vision that includes supporting local farmers, employing thousands across multiple sites, and giving back through the Blue Skies Foundation, which has completed more than 200 development projects ranging from schools and clinics to sanitation facilities.
Mr. Djimatey highlighted that the company’s long-term success is rooted in respect, for people, for the environment, and for the communities they serve. He emphasized that Blue Skies does not only focus on profits; it also measures success by the well-being of its workers and the positive impact it creates. This mindset, he explained, is what keeps the business resilient even in tough times, whether it’s dealing with energy challenges, currency instability, or changes in global demand.
For the PK Amoabeng Scholars, the visit was more than just a factory tour. It was a lesson in leadership, innovation, and integrity. Walking through the facility, observing the production process, and engaging with staff gave them a first-hand look at how a company can stay true to its values while scaling up.
“What struck me most was how they’ve found a way to create value from what most people would throw away,” one scholar shared. “It challenged my thinking around waste and innovation.”
Another added, “The way Blue Skies treats its employees, with respect and fairness, is something every company should learn from. It’s clear that people matter here.”
The visit also left many reflecting on the possibilities for their own ventures. As one scholar put it, “This experience taught me that you can build a successful business without compromising your values. That’s the kind of entrepreneur I want to be.”
For the scholars, the visit to Blue Skies was a strong reminder that it’s possible to build a business that makes money and still puts people and purpose first. It showed them that local ideas can have global impact, and that values don’t have to be sacrificed for success.
As their tour came to a close, one powerful quote shared by Mr. Djimatey stuck with them, summing up the bigger lesson:
“All the things we think should be done, can be done, must be done. But if they are not done, we are done.” Prof. PLO Lumumba.
It was more than just a quote. It was a challenge, and a call to action they’ll carry forward.
