A Journey to Ghana: Empowering Farmers through Cooperative Societies

I traveled to Sekyere Central District in the Ashanti Region of Ghana to consult with the Sekyere Odiasempa Cooperative Farmers and Marketing Society (SOCFMS). This union of five farmer-based organizations was formed in 1984 under the initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). At that time, the cooperative had a total membership of 2,500 with seven executive committee leaders who managed the cooperative.

The SOCFMS undertakes various responsibilities on behalf of its members, including lobbying for institutional and project support, assisting members to market their goods, gaining access and training on good agronomic practices, facilitating the provision of tractor services and fertilizers, and providing improved seed and agrochemicals. These efforts are crucial to the success of the farmers and their communities.

During my time in Ghana, I provided training to the cooperative leaders to increase their capacity to more effectively manage their organization. My work focused on increasing their understanding of the cooperative’s decision-making process, division of tasks, workflow, and communication exchange. By improving their organizational skills, the cooperative can better serve its members and provide valuable resources to the community.

Sekyere Central District is located in the northern part of the Ashanti Region and shares boundaries with five districts, namely Mampong Municipality, Ejura-Sekyedumasi, Amantin-Atebubu, Sekyere Afram Plains, and Sekyere East Districts. The region has a population of approximately 24 million, with Christianity and Islam being the dominant religions. English is the official language, but Twi, Fante, Ga, Ewe, Hausa, and Dagbani are also spoken.

My time in Ghana was a truly enriching experience. I was touched by the warmth and hospitality of the people I met, and I was inspired by their resilience and determination to improve their communities. The work of the SOCFMS is a testament to the power of cooperation and the importance of community-driven initiatives. It was an honor to contribute to their efforts and to learn from their expertise.

My time in Ghana consulting with the Sekyere Odiasempa Cooperative Farmers and Marketing Society was a remarkable experience that I will never forget. The region’s natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming people were truly inspiring. The work of the SOCFMS is critical to the success of the farmers and their communities, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have contributed to their efforts. I encourage others to learn more about this incredible organization and to support their important work.