Janat Issifu Honored with Princess Carla Award for Impacting Women in Agriculture

Janat Issifu, CEO of WAN-Hive Ghana, received the prestigious Princess Carla Award at the “Gold in the Soil Awards.” This accolade recognizes young women making significant positive impacts on their communities through mentoring, role modeling, counseling, and enhancing networks for women in agriculture.

Award Presentation at WOFAGRIC

The award was presented at the 6th Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum (WOFAGRIC), organized by the Agrihouse Foundation in partnership with Global Affairs Canada and other organizations.

WAN-Hive Ghana: Empowering Women Farmers

Supporting Women in Agriculture

Janat Issifu, from Sunyani in the Bono Region, founded WAN-Hive Ghana to tackle the challenges faced by women in the agricultural value chain. The organization provides market linkage opportunities, identifies challenges, and designs solutions, programs, and initiatives to empower and mentor women farmers, helping them increase their yields.

Connecting Farmers to Resources

WAN-Hive Ghana connects women farmers to successful mentors and provides essential funding for inputs like cutlasses, hoes, Wellington boots, and fertilizers. By linking them to markets, the organization helps prevent post-harvest losses.

Adding Value and Market Access

Additionally, WAN-Hive Ghana connects women farmers to manufacturing companies that add value to their produce. The organization is currently assisting some women farmers in registering and certifying their products for local and international markets.

Janat Issifu’s Vision and Challenges

Inspiring the Youth

Janat’s motivation comes from her desire to empower women and spark interest in agriculture among the youth. She aims to change the perception that agriculture is only for the elderly by showcasing its potential as a viable career path for young people. Her efforts have also created employment opportunities, with five permanent workers and three temporary workers currently employed at WAN-Hive Ghana.

Facing Funding Challenges

Despite numerous successes, Janat faces challenges, particularly in accessing funding. However, her determination and dedication to her mission remain unwavering.

“I believe in the potential of agriculture to transform lives and communities,” says Janat Issifu. “Through WAN-Hive Ghana, we’re not just supporting farmers; we’re building a sustainable future for agriculture in Ghana.”

Expanding Reach and Impact

Scaling Up Operations

Janat Issifu plans to expand WAN-Hive Ghana’s reach, aiming to support even more women farmers across Ghana. By scaling up operations, the organization hopes to address a wider range of challenges and create more significant impacts in the agricultural sector.

Partnerships and Collaborations

To achieve these goals, WAN-Hive Ghana is seeking partnerships and collaborations with local and international organizations. These partnerships will provide additional resources, expertise, and funding necessary to sustain and expand their initiatives.

Innovations and Training

Adopting New Technologies

WAN-Hive Ghana is committed to introducing innovative agricultural technologies to women farmers. By adopting modern farming techniques and tools, the organization aims to increase productivity and efficiency, ensuring that farmers can compete in both local and international markets.

Comprehensive Training Programs

In addition to providing resources and market linkages, WAN-Hive Ghana offers comprehensive training programs. These programs cover various aspects of agriculture, including sustainable farming practices, financial literacy, and business management, equipping women farmers with the knowledge and skills needed for success.

Advocacy and Awareness

Changing Perceptions

Janat Issifu continues to advocate for changing perceptions about agriculture. Through public speaking engagements, media appearances, and community outreach programs, she aims to inspire more young people to consider careers in agriculture and highlight the crucial role women play in the industry.

Promoting Gender Equality

WAN-Hive Ghana also focuses on promoting gender equality in agriculture. By empowering women and ensuring they have equal access to resources and opportunities, the organization strives to create a more inclusive and equitable agricultural sector.

A Message of Hope and Determination

Despite the challenges, Janat Issifu remains hopeful and determined. Her vision for a sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector in Ghana is driving her efforts, and she is committed to making a lasting impact.

Conclusion

Janat Issifu’s recognition with the Princess Carla Award is a testament to her dedication and the positive changes she is bringing to the agricultural community in Ghana. Through WAN-Hive Ghana, she is not only supporting women farmers but also building a brighter future for agriculture in the country. Her story is an inspiration to many, demonstrating the power of determination, innovation, and community support in transforming lives and industries.

“I believe that together, we can create a future where agriculture thrives, and women are at the forefront of this transformation,” Janat says, reinforcing her commitment to her mission.