Agri-Impact, Mastercard Foundation marks IWD at Aglow Poultry Processing Factory

Agri-Impact Limited, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation has marked this year’s International Women’s Day with participants under the Harnessing Agricultural Productivity and Prosperity for Youth (HAPPY) Programme.
The event held under the theme, “Accelerating Inclusion of Young Women and Persons with disabilities to drive innovation and also thriving agribusiness sector”, was held at the Aglow Poultry Processing Factory at Potsin in the Central Region.

The HAPPY programme launched in December 2023, aims to create 326,000 dignified jobs for Ghanaian youth, particularly women and persons with disabilities, within four years.

Over 138,000 job opportunities for the youth.
The programme focuses on enhancing productivity in rice, soybean, tomato, and poultry value chains, targeting individuals aged 15-35.
Speaking to students and stakeholders in agriculture at the event, Board Member at Agri-Impact Group, Maamie Nyamekye Hutchful Nortey, noted the transformative impact the programme has had on Ghana’s agricultural value chain.
She emphasized the increasing participation of women in agribusiness, noting that over 50% of women are engaged in the sector, and the programme is drawing even more young people into it.

According to her, one of the most encouraging aspects of the programme, is the inclusion and success of persons with disabilities.

She shared that, despite initial challenges, many have quickly adapted to agribusiness machinery, with some mastering operations in as little as six to eight weeks—a testament to their dedication and potential.
“Persons with disabilities have shown remarkable focus and intentionality in their work. Their contributions bring silent yet powerful innovation, and businesses that embrace their talents will see significant growth,” she stated.
Deputy Group CEO of Agri Impact Limited, Juliana Asante-Dartey, noted the critical role of women in agribusiness, calling for increased support to empower young women and persons with disabilities in the sector.
She stressed the significance of celebrating women’s contributions to national and global development.
She highlighted the need for accelerated action in supporting young women and persons with disabilities to thrive in agribusiness.
“We believe that women have a role to play in the sustainable development of our nation,” she said.
Encouraging young people to consider careers in agriculture, Juliana Asante-Dartey noted that agribusiness offers vast opportunities for economic independence and national development.
“As you leave school, we want to encourage you to consider agribusiness as a career path. There is so much you can do for yourself, your home, and your community,” she urged.
She also highlighted success stories of program participants, some of whom have expanded rice farms to over five acres, transitioned into agribusiness management roles, or become data analysts driving productivity in their organizations.

The Deputy Group CEO of Agri Impact Limited called on stakeholders, including families and community leaders, to support young women in taking advantage of available opportunities in the agribusiness sector.
“With the right support, these young women can become successful entrepreneurs, employers, and leaders in agriculture,” she added.
The HAPPY Programme is implemented by an eight-member consortium, including Newage Agric Solutions, National Service Authority (NSA), Ghana CARES (MiDA), Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), TechnoServe, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), and Jobberman.