As part of the broader Programme Area Africa implemented by CIHEAM Bari in Ghana, Senegal, and the Republic of the Congo within the framework of the “Strengthening of Agro-Food Ecosystems in Ghana in partnership with the Italian private system” project, ongoing monitoring and technical support activities continue to contribute to the strengthening of local agri-food ecosystems.
In this context, the Coordinator of the Program Area Africa at CIHEAM Bari, Mr Enrico Azzone, accompanied by the Project Manager in Ghana, Mr. Alessandro Lorato, carried out a monitoring mission in Ghana from November 18 to 24th, to assess the project’s progress and reinforce dialogue with national institutions and project partners.
The mission provided a valuable opportunity to evaluate the impact of the actions underway and to further consolidate synergies with key actors in the agricultural and fisheries sectors.
During his visit, Mr. Azzone met the Ambassador of Italy to Ghana and Togo, Ms. Laura Ranalli, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Hon. Emelia Arthur, the Director- General of CSIR (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research), Prof. Paul B. Bosu, the North Tongu District Chief Executive, Hon. Victoria Amefadzi Yawa Doe, as well as beneficiaries in the rural area of Aveyime-Battor, including students, cooperatives, outgrowers, and local micro and small enterprises.
Furthermore, a visit to the Model Farm of the private partner BFI was carried out to assess the progress of the field activities, guided by the Farm Manager, Mr. Andrea Cavallo.
In line with the planned roadmap, the main project activities implemented by CIHEAM are progressing according to schedule. Preparations are underway for the tender documents related to the construction of socio-community infrastructures; a Memorandum of Understanding with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is being finalized; cooperatives and outgrowers expected to benefit from capacity-building activities and technical support are being reviewed; and a scholarship program (for three years) is going to be launched for outstanding students enrolling in university courses in agronomy or scientific disciplines.
The Programme is part of the Italian international cooperation initiative developed within a balanced public–private partnership framework under the Mattei Plan for Africa. It specifically falls within the Action for the Strengthening of Agro-Food Ecosystems in #Africa (#AREA), co-financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), with CIHEAM Bari serving as the knowledge partner and implementing body for the public component, and BFI acting as the private partner.
