A women-led agro-processing centre in Bolgatanga, operating under the Northern Savannah Women Enterprise and managed by the Northern Patriots in Research and Advocacy (NORPRA), is seeking collaboration with the government’s 24-Hour Economy initiative to scale production and boost economic empowerment.
Currently employing over 600 women across 15 communities in the Upper East Region, the centre processes locally sourced products such as groundnut paste, soya oil, and kebabs, with a projected monthly profit of over GH¢9 million.
Outfitted with modern agro-processing machinery that meets both local and international standards, the facility is positioned to supply nutritious food products to major government programs—including the School Feeding Programme, senior high schools, and public health institutions.
Certification Key to Market Access
During a courtesy visit to the Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. Roland Ayoo, NORPRA Executive Director Bismark Adongo Ayorogo appealed for support in securing certification from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). He noted that although the products are of high quality, lack of certification limits their access to wider markets, both locally and abroad.
“The Assembly can support them with the necessary certifications and expand their facilities for more efficient machine operations. Their operations are in line with the government’s 24-Hour Economy vision,” Mr. Ayorogo said.
He praised the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of the women, highlighting their detailed business plan and profit projections. With adequate support, he believes they can transform local economies and enhance rural livelihoods.
Women Ready to Scale Production
Barikisu Akurugu, a representative of the women’s group, emphasized that with the Assembly’s backing, they could scale up production, meet national food supply needs, and strengthen the local economy.
In response, MCE Roland Ayoo commended NORPRA and the women-led team for their proactive steps and business foresight. He assured them of the Assembly’s support and confirmed that their request would be included in the medium-term development plan.
“This initiative fits perfectly into the government’s industrialization agenda. We will work to ensure their inclusion in the 24-Hour Economy initiative,” Mr. Ayoo stated.
Empowering Women Through Agro-Processing
This potential public-private partnership is expected to drive job creation, empower rural women, and strengthen local food systems. It positions Bolgatanga as a future hub for agro-processing and inclusive economic growth in Northern Ghana.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga
