Eastfield Foundation: Transforming Ghana's Corporate Social Responsibility landscape
At the heart of Aperade in the Achiase district within Ghana's Eastern region lies Eastfield Farms, the largest orange orchard in West Africa. This sprawling expanse, spanning 1,500 acres and home to over 165,000 orange trees, also houses a distinctive corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative: the Eastfield Foundation. Established in 2020, the foundation is the embodiment of Eastfield Farms' commitment to giving back to society in innovative and impactful ways.
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Eastfield Foundation's dedication to its catchment district and beyond has redefined the conventional narrative of CSR. The orchard, which employs 120 individuals with 93 permanent staff, has become an agent of positive change in its community. Let's delve into some of the transformative CSR activities undertaken by the Eastfield Foundation:
Nurturing Wellbeing through "One Student, One Orange"
Under the banner of #OrangeWednesday, Eastfield Foundation's weekly initiative stands as a testament to its commitment to nurturing the wellbeing of young minds. Every Wednesday, the foundation provides each student in basic schools within Eastfield Farms' catchment area with a fresh 100% organically grown orange. This act not only encourages healthy habits but also reinforces the significance of vitamin C in their diet. Furthermore, over 1,000 oranges are supplied to staff in beneficiary schools, extending the reach of this health-conscious gesture.
Empowering Students with "Grow to Consume"
Eastfield Foundation's "Grow to Consume" initiative is sowing the seeds of positive attitudes toward agriculture in the hearts of students. The foundation equips students with orange seedlings and offers guidance throughout the entire cultivation process until harvest. This empowers students to cultivate their oranges, potentially expanding the reach of the #OrangeWednesday initiative to other days. Moreover, this effort contributes to safeguarding the land against erosion and waste.
Championing the Green Ghana Initiative
Aligning with the government's Green Ghana Initiative, Eastfield Foundation has played an active role by donating orange seedlings and offering expertise in planting and nurturing to beneficiary schools in the Eastern region. This commitment not only supports environmental sustainability but also fosters a sense of responsibility toward nature among the younger generation.
Inspiring BECE Candidates
During the challenging Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) period, Eastfield Foundation steps forward to boost the morale of candidates. By providing mathematical sets and packaged oranges for vitality, the foundation underscores its commitment to supporting the education journey of young minds within the catchment areas of Eastfield Farms.
Reviving Sports and Fostering Growth
Eastfield Foundation's influence extends beyond agriculture into the realm of sports. Collaborating with other corporate entities, the foundation has played a pivotal role in revitalizing squash in Ghana. Quarterly tournaments, including a partnership with Achimota Squash Club, have reignited interest in squash among females and children. Eastfield Foundation's support for Ghana's maiden team at the Commonwealth Games in 2022 attests to its dedication to sports development.
A Vision for Socioeconomic Empowerment
The Eastfield Foundation envisions a Ghana that is self-sustaining and flourishing, driven by the recognition and support of corporate entities. Through its multifaceted initiatives, the foundation aims to create a socioeconomically vibrant environment that benefits both citizens and visitors alike. Eastfield Foundation's innovative approach to CSR exemplifies the positive impact that businesses can make on their communities and the nation as a whole.