Olam Food Ingredients Ghana Limited (OFIS Ghana), a licensed buying company (LBC) in Ghana’s cocoa sector and exporter of cashew in the industry, recently organized a special event to commemorate the construction of a school in Akawan, a cocoa community located in Nkawkaw, Eastern Region. This initiative, part of OFI’s Cocoa Compass sustainability ambition, aims to support cocoa-growing communities and improve access to quality education, thereby contributing to the reduction of child labor. The event witnessed the participation of over 500 farmers, community leaders, and various stakeholders, including the Member of Parliament for Kade and representatives from COCOBOD’s Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) and the Quality Control Company (QCC).
The Commitment to Sustainable Cocoa
At the heart of OFI Ghana’s operations lies a strong commitment to traceability and sustainability. Since launching its first sustainability initiative in Ghana back in 2004, the company has played a significant role in building a cocoa sector that provides long-term, positive support to cocoa farmers, their communities, and the environment. By integrating sustainability practices into its core business operations, OFI Ghana has established itself as a responsible and trusted partner in the cocoa industry.
Groundbreaking for the School Construction
During the event, Mr. Gerard Manley, the Chief Sustainability Officer of OFI, who will soon step down from his position, had the honor of breaking ground for the construction of the school. Mr. Manley expressed his pride in being present at the start of this school’s construction, emphasizing that it exemplifies the company’s commitment to protecting children and ensuring a better future for them. He highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts with customers and partners in order to create a positive impact on the lives of children in cocoa-growing communities.
Strengthening Communities through Education
Mr. Eric Asare-Botwe, the Country Head of OFI Ghana Limited, reiterated the company’s dedication to fostering thriving communities. To promote education, OFI Ghana has established ten educational funds across its cocoa-sourcing communities. These funds help support students by providing access to quality education, while also assisting farmers in improving their yields and incomes through training programs on good agricultural practices. Additionally, OFI Ghana facilitates access to farmer village savings and loans associations, as well as additional livelihood programs.
Sustainable Cocoa Farming and Digital Tools
Mr. Kennedy Ntoso, the Sustainability Head of OFI Ghana, expressed gratitude to Mr. Manley for spearheading numerous initiatives that have advanced cocoa sustainability globally. Notably, the adoption of digital tools and systems such as the Olam Farmer Information System (OFIS), the Olam Livelihood Charter, the At Source Management System, and Cocoa Compass has significantly contributed to meeting customer needs and supporting cocoa farmers in their journey towards sustainability.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: How is OFI Ghana contributing to cocoa-growing communities in Ghana?
OFI Ghana is actively engaged in strengthening cocoa-growing communities through various initiatives. The company establishes educational funds to support quality education, provides training on good agricultural practices to help farmers improve their yields and incomes, and facilitates access to farmer village savings and loans associations and additional livelihood programs.
Q: What is the significance of the school construction in Akawan?
The construction of the school in Akawan signifies OFI Ghana’s commitment to protecting children and promoting access to quality education in cocoa-growing communities. By investing in educational infrastructure, the company aims to create a brighter future for children and.
Conclusion
Olam Food Ingredients Ghana Limited (OFI Ghana) has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to sustainability and community development in Ghana’s cocoa sector. Through initiatives like the construction of the school in Akawan, OFI Ghana is making a tangible impact on the lives of cocoa farmers and their families.
By investing in education and providing resources to cocoa-growing communities, OFI Ghana is empowering farmers to improve their agricultural practices and livelihoods. The establishment of educational funds, training programs, and access to financial services reflects the company’s holistic approach to sustainable cocoa farming.
OFI Ghana’s adoption of digital tools and systems has streamlined processes and enhanced efficiency in the cocoa supply chain. The implementation of the Olam Farmer Information System (OFIS), the Olam Livelihood Charter, the At Source Management System, and Cocoa Compass demonstrates the company’s commitment to meeting customer demands while promoting sustainability.
The construction of the school in Akawan not only symbolizes OFI Ghana’s dedication to protecting children and providing quality education but also serves as a testament to the company’s long-term vision for a thriving cocoa sector in Ghana.
As OFI Ghana continues to collaborate with stakeholders, farmers, and communities, it sets an example for responsible and sustainable practices in the cocoa industry. By prioritizing education, improving livelihoods, and championing traceability and sustainability, OFI Ghana is playing a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for cocoa farmers and their communities in Ghana.
