WFF Ghana Youth Chapter drives empowerment of young women in agrifood systems

On 18 July 2025, the World Food Forum (WFF) Ghana Youth Chapter hosted a  youth-led dialogue at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR). Titled, “What it takes to empower the young Ghanian women in agrifood systems through youth-led actions”, the event brought together 150 participants including students, early stage agripreneurs and young professionals to amplify young women’s voices in agrifood systems transformation.

Organized in collaboration with the UENR Office of the Women’s Commissioner and the School of Agriculture and Technology, the event spotlighted the challenges and opportunities facing young women in agriculture, food innovation and entrepreneurship. Seven student entrepreneurs - Alberta Obeng, Beatrice Yayra Asamani, Bernice Donkor, Juliet Adu Nketia, Pearl Seyram Adoboli, Rosemond Koto Deladem and Vida Fakornam Agbetsiafa, shared stories of resilience, ambition and innovation across Ghana’s agrifood systems value chain.

A panel discussion moderated by Philippa Mensah, the Chapter’s Director for Women and Social Protection, highlighted persistent barriers facing young women in agrifood systems, including limited access to mentorship, startup capital and gender-inclusive policy frameworks. The discussion emphasized youth engagement in agrifood systems transformation, with Mensah reminding participants, “You are not just future farmers; you are present-day changemakers.”

Key outcomes included UENR’s commitment to integrating more practical agriculture experiences into academic curricula and supporting student-led agribusiness ventures. The Women in Agricultural Development unit of Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture expressed interest in exploring support mechanisms for women-led startups.

“At the heart of the World Food Forum lies a powerful conviction: that youth and women are not merely observers in the agricultural and agrifood systems space, but essential and dynamic forces shaping both its present and its future”, said Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa,  National Director of the Chapter. “By investing in their potential, we pave the way for agrifood systems that nourish both people and the planet".

Next steps focus on co-developing pilot mentorship and entrepreneurship programmes alongside academic and government partners, gearing up for the 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.