The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has underscored the indispensable role of women in Ghana’s agricultural transformation, commending their contributions as farmers, processors, traders, and innovators.
Speaking at the 2nd Annual General Meeting and induction ceremony of the Ghana Association of Female Agricultural and Fish Farmers Award Winners (GAFAFAW) in Accra, Mr. Opoku said the government remains committed to empowering women through the Feed Ghana Programme under the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA).
He explained that the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) would continue to support women farmers with access to modern farming technologies and extension services, as well as promote value addition, agro-processing, climate-smart agriculture, and improved market and financial access.
“The transformation of Ghana’s agriculture will not be complete without the full and active participation of women. Your leadership, dedication and expertise are vital to building a resilient, inclusive agricultural sector,” he stressed.
The Minister also praised GAFAFAW for advancing women’s leadership in agriculture, citing its advocacy in national policy dialogues and mentorship of smallholder farmers since its establishment in 2023.
He further emphasized that rural women remain the “backbone of Ghana’s agricultural economy,” noting their crucial role as custodians of indigenous knowledge, champions of food security, and drivers of innovation in farming communities.
Opoku called for greater recognition of women’s contributions, warning that their potential is often underutilized despite being central to sustaining households and national food systems.
