Global Affairs Canada has, over the past eight years, remained a steadfast partner in one of Ghana’s most impactful agricultural empowerment initiatives — the Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Expo (WOFAGRIC) and the Gold in the Soil Awards.
Through its continued support, over 12,000 rural women farmers, farmers with disabilities, agribusiness entrepreneurs, processors and marketers across Ghana have gained access to training, mentorship and recognition.
Moreover, the farmers have access to opportunities that have strengthened their livelihoods and broadened their participation in the country’s agricultural economy.
Empower
“What began as a platform to celebrate and empower women in agriculture has evolved into a national movement that is changing lives, transforming communities and redefining the role of women in Ghana’s food systems.
“For many rural women, agriculture is more than a profession; it is a means of survival, a source of income and a pathway to supporting families and educating children.
Yet for decades, many of these women have remained invisible despite their immense contributions to food production and national development,” it said in a brief.
Recognising that gap, it said Global Affairs Canada, a department of the Canadian Government, identified WOFAGRIC and the Gold in the Soil Awards.
Platform
Again, it said the initiative by Agrihouse Foundation was creating a platform that celebrated excellence while also providing practical support and opportunities for growth.
“Over the years, the partnership has helped shine a spotlight on women whose stories would otherwise go untold.
Women who cultivate crops under challenging conditions, process agricultural products to create value, manage thriving agribusinesses and lead community initiatives have been recognised and empowered to do even more.
“One of the most remarkable aspects of the initiative has been its commitment to inclusion.
Through targeted interventions and recognition schemes, women farmers with disabilities have been given a platform to showcase their capabilities, challenge stereotypes and inspire others within the agricultural sector,” the statement emphasised.
Beneficiaries
For many beneficiaries, it said the impact had gone beyond awards and recognition, and that access to training sessions, networking opportunities, leadership development programmes and exposure to new technologies had enabled the rural women to improve productivity, increase incomes and build sustainable enterprises.
The Gold in the Soil Awards, in particular, it said, had become one of the country's most respected agricultural recognition platforms.
It said that by honouring hardworking women and farmers with disabilities across various agricultural value chains, the awards have elevated the visibility of female agricultural leaders and inspired younger generations to pursue careers in agriculture.
“Global Affairs Canada's support has also contributed significantly to advancing gender equality within Ghana's agricultural sector.
By investing in women and ensuring that rural voices are heard, the partnership aligns with Canada's broader commitment to inclusive development, economic empowerment and sustainable growth,” it said.
Beyond individual success stories, it said the initiative had created ripple effects across communities.
It said women who had benefited from training and mentorship often passed on knowledge to fellow farmers, supported local farmer groups, and served as role models for young women seeking opportunities in agriculture, impacting about 20,000 beneficiaries directly and indirectly.
“As Ghana continues to pursue food security and agricultural transformation, the contribution of rural women remains indispensable.
The sustained support of Global Affairs Canada demonstrates the importance of international partnerships that place women at the centre of development efforts,” it said.
