The agriculture sector is undergoing a significant transformation, thanks to the rise of agritech startups. These innovative enterprises leverage technology to improve crop yields, promote sustainable agriculture practices, and enhance the efficiency of farming.
One such farmer benefiting from this technological revolution is Mr. Helehele Bingi. He practices his profession in an unlikely place—Ebony, a suburb of Accra near Dzorwulu, a mainly middle-class residential area. With nearly two decades of experience cultivating vegetables, Mr. Bingi told The High Street Journal that his passion for farming has been with him since childhood, describing it as a God-given talent. “It’s something I find happiness in since I was little; it’s been my hobby.”
Mr. Bingi’s venture has proven profitable ever since he begun apply technology to his profession. He does not only sells to people in his immediate vicinity but also exports to neighboring countries such as Togo and Burkina Faso. Additionally, he has Asian customers who use his produce for meals on their shipping vessels.
He noted that his success has inspired the youth in his area to consider agribusiness. He explained that technology has significantly boosted his farming operations. “I get market information online and use that to price my produce, and I learn about the latest inputs that will help me get better yields,” he said.
However, Mr. Bingi faces challenges with the rising cost of inputs. He explained that most of his inputs are imported and heavily impacted by the constant depreciation of the cedi, which has lost 19.6% of its value by mid-July this year. He urged the government to stabilise the cedi, warning that without such measures, the government’s flagship agriculture program, Planting for Food and Jobs, would not succeed.
Despite these challenges, Mr. Bingi remains hopeful, relying on technology to increase his yield. He projects to expand his farm significantly over the next five years.
