In a year marked by global challenges to food security, Yara Ghana Limited has emerged as a beacon of sustainable agricultural development, earning the prestigious Agribusiness of the Decade award at the Millennium Excellence Awards. Under the royal patronage of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, this recognition underscores Yara Ghana’s profound impact on the nation’s agricultural sector over the past ten years, particularly in championing innovative solutions for **agribusiness**.

The award celebrates Yara Ghana’s unwavering commitment to innovation, leadership, and sustainable practices that have reshaped Ghana’s agricultural landscape. From pioneering crop nutrition programs to empowering smallholder farmers, the company has been instrumental in driving national food security and fostering the socio-economic well-being of farming communities. One of the company’s notable programs, “Yara Grow Ghana”, exemplifies its dedication to addressing critical challenges and promoting sustainable market systems. But what exactly has led to this recognition and what does it mean for the future of farming in Ghana?

Over the past decade, Yara Ghana has demonstrated transformative leadership in the **agribusiness** sector, directly contributing to enhanced national food security and the socio-economic development of farming communities. The company’s focus extends across a spectrum of crucial areas, including providing cutting-edge crop nutrition solutions, proactively engaging in market development, investing in research and development, and implementing comprehensive farmer empowerment programs. This multifaceted approach has solidified Yara Ghana’s position as a key driver of positive change in the industry.

Established in 2007, Yara Ghana operates with a clear and compelling mission: to responsibly feed the world and protect the planet. This mission is underpinned by a powerful vision – a vision of a collaborative society, a world free from hunger, and a planet that is respected and nurtured. In pursuit of this vision, Yara Ghana actively collaborates with partners throughout the entire food value chain to develop and implement climate-friendly crop nutrition solutions. The company is deeply committed to sustainable mineral fertilizer production and to providing farmers with the critical knowledge and support they need to thrive.

In 2022, as the Russia-Ukraine war sent shockwaves through global food markets, Yara International ASA responded decisively, donating USD20 million worth of fertilizers to Ghana through Yara Ghana Limited. This initiative, aptly named "Yara Grow Ghana," was a direct response to the escalating challenges of food security and fertilizer affordability. The donation, comprising 18,000 metric tons (360,000 bags) of YaraMila Actyva fertilizer, provided vital support to over 100,000 smallholder farmers across the country.

The impact of the "Yara Grow Ghana" initiative has been substantial and far-reaching. By reducing farmers’ input cost per acre by 33.3%, the program has significantly improved livelihoods and promoted sustainable market systems. Furthermore, it has made a tangible contribution to national food production, averting potential food insecurity and creating employment opportunities for over 500 young people. Crucially, the initiative has also provided farmers with access to vital agronomic knowledge, empowering them to optimize their yields and adopt sustainable farming practices.

What were the key outcomes of the Yara Grow Ghana Initiative?

The "Yara Grow Ghana" initiative yielded several key outcomes, including increased staple crop productivity, the development of resilient farming systems, and the generation of positive economic impact within the country. These outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of Yara Ghana’s approach and its commitment to creating long-term value for farmers and communities.

“We are humbled and honoured to be named Agribusiness of the Decade,” said Madam Theresa Randolph, Country Manager of Yara Ghana. “This award is not just for Yara Ghana it belongs to the hardworking farmers who rise every morning to grow the food that feeds our nation. This award goes to the team, our partners, and every individual who believes that agriculture can be a force for economic development.” Her statement underscores the collaborative spirit that drives Yara Ghana’s success and the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable agricultural development.

Looking ahead, Yara Ghana remains focused on building a system where knowledge, technology, and resources are readily accessible to farmers, empowering them to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The company is committed to achieving its Yara Ambition of “Growing a Nature-Positive Food Future” through the promotion of sustainable food production systems that minimize environmental impact and maximize productivity. A key aspect of this vision is the transfer of knowledge to farmers, ensuring they have the tools and expertise to optimize their production and profitability while minimizing their environmental footprint. Furthermore, Yara Ghana is actively exploring innovative ways of dealing with climate change, recognizing the urgent need to adapt to evolving environmental challenges.

Yara Ghana’s Agribusiness of the Decade award is a testament to their unwavering dedication to transforming Ghana’s agricultural sector and building a more sustainable future. Through initiatives like the "Yara Grow Ghana" program and a steadfast commitment to sustainable practices, Yara Ghana has made significant strides in enhancing food security, empowering farmers, and driving economic development. As Ghana and the broader African continent strive towards greater agricultural sustainability, Yara Ghana stands as a shining example of responsible and visionary **agribusiness** leadership. The company’s emphasis on knowledge transfer and environmentally sustainable practices positions them as a pivotal player in shaping a nature-positive food future for the continent.