Queen mothers lead push for agrifood systems transformation
The eighth edition of the Gathering of Royals, a programme that brings together queen mothers from all 16 regions engaged in agriculture and agribusiness to discuss innovative solutions to promote their work, has been launched.
The event, themed: ‘Seeds of Change: From Leadership to Legacy – Women Transforming the Agrifood Systems,’ seeks to unite queen mothers in the agricultural sector to share ideas and drive transformation.
Speaking at the launch in Accra yesterday, the Founder and Executive Chair of Agrihouse Foundation, Mrs. Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, said the initiative, now in its eighth year, was created to provide a platform for traditional leaders involved in agriculture to deliberate on challenges in the sector and contribute to policy discussions.
She emphasised that women were “change champions” capable of transforming their communities, regions, and the nation. Mrs. Akosa highlighted the organisation’s efforts to support women, particularly in poultry farming, announcing that queen mothers who signed a pledge last year would receive inputs such as chicks, feed, trays, and vaccines to start their own projects.
She urged participants to turn words into action and stressed the responsible use of resources. “Let’s value people over profits. Very important. We get so many resources and sometimes we honestly misuse them,” she said.
Mrs. Akosa noted that the event would feature panel discussions on agriculture and trade, focusing on how queen mothers could address challenges in the tomato industry and promote sustainable farming practices. She reiterated that the initiative aimed to build a legacy for future generations.
The Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, commended the queen mothers for making agriculture appealing to the younger generation. “The seeds we plant today through mentorship, inclusion, and deliberate investment will determine the future we build,” she said. She urged stakeholders to position agriculture as a viable and attractive sector rather than a poverty-stricken endeavour, noting that leadership is built through consistent action and service.
The Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, Mrs. Berenice Owen-Jones, said she was honoured to be part of the gathering and described women as the backbone of Ghana’s agricultural sector. She highlighted Australia’s long-standing partnership with Ghana and its investment in agricultural development.
BY AGNES OWUSU
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