Previously operating from a rented premises, the Sunyani Greenfield Mango Farmers Association has received a transformative boost to enhance its members knowledge and skills in mango cultivation with the establishment of a state -of-the -art Agricultural Resource Centre.
The new facility, constructed by Blue skies Foundations is a strategic investment in the long-term sustainability of the mango value chain and is expected to transform the lives of over 200 members, including adults, youth, women and farmers with disabilities.
The new facility is expected to significantly reduce administrative and operational costs, thereby improving organisational efficiency and enabling the association to better serve its diverse membership.
Purpose of the Centre
The state-of-the-art Resource Centre, constructed by the Blue Skies Foundation, the charitable arm of the Blue Skies fruit juice company is a strategic investment in the long-term sustainability of the mango value chain and would serve as a hub for training, innovation and resource distribution, equipping farmers with modern agricultural techniques, access to quality inputs and up-to-date market information.
The centre named in honour of Mr.Ernest Adjei Ablorh, former head of Agronomy at Blue skies which includes a conference hall, office space, an input shop, and washrooms serves as a hub for training, innovation and resource distribution.
The facility is equipped with modern Agricultural techniques, access to quality imputes, and up to dates market information empowering farmers to improve their practices, boost productivity and enhance their livelihoods.
History of Blue Skies
Founded 29 years ago, Blue Skies has established itself as a powerhouse in natural fruit juice production, both locally and internationally.
Dr. Anthony Pile, Board Chairman of the Blue Skies Foundation, recalled that the company began with just 35 Ghanaian employees and today, could boast of a workforce of 5,500, saying out of the 35 old employers, only three are still workers with the company.
He noted that the company’s mango processing operations are growing at an annual rate of 15 percent, highlighting; 1,000 tons of mangoes were processed weeks ago.
Strengthening support
Dr. Pile commended the mango farmers for their continued
partnership, emphasising that Ghanaian mangoes were among the finest in West Africa, while encouraging farmers in the Sunyani area to increase their supply allocation from the 70 percent to 99 percent.
Expanding the value chain
Mr. Alistair Djimatey, Head of Foundation and Corporate Affairs at Blue Skies, highlighted the initiative of the “School Farm of the Year” competition, which encourages youth to explore opportunities along the agricultural value chain and view Agriculture as a viable career path.
He emphasised that the initiative had become a national transformation agenda and that the new resource centre would further inspire young people in the region to view agriculture as a viable career.
Changing youth mindsets
“We want to change the mindset of young people about agriculture,” Mr. Djimatey said, “this centre is not just for elderly but is a space where young people can gain practical knowledge and apply it.”
He expressed hope that the facility would strengthen the relationship between stakeholders and enable greater support for the agricultural sector.
Creating impact
Mr Djimatey described the centre as a milestone in the Blue Skies Foundation’s commitment to empowering local communities and supporting agriculture.
He said, the facility is a testament to their dedication to sustainable development and creating a positive impact where they operate.
He called on stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to promoting agriculture, empowering communities, and fostering sustainable development.
“Let’s work together to harness agriculture’s potential as a driver of economic growth, social empowerment, and environmental stewardship.” Mr Djimatey said.
Expanding extension services
Mr. Isaac Adjei Mensah, Bono Regional Extension Officer, affirmed the Department of Agriculture’s commitment to providing extension services and integrating relevant research, especially in areas where mango interventions are needed.
Producing quality for premium markets, Mr. Mensah noted a common challenge in Ghana’s agricultural sector, where consumers often expect high-quality produce without paying premium prices, saying, with Blue Skies, however, once you meet the premium grade, you pay what is due accordingly.
He emphasized that the real issue for many farmers is not the absence of buyers, but lack of reliable off takers who can purchase in large volumes and sustain producers, adding, “Blue Skies has filled that gap in the mango value chain.
Strong partnership
“I believe the Greenfield Mango Association could not have found a better partner than Blue Skies,” Mr. Mensah asserted.
Indicating, “We have seen the effort they put into assessing seasonal potential and their commitment has culminated in the facility.”
He stressed the importance of building such investments and maintaining them in the near future, where, Sunyani Mango Association leads in mango production.
Fostering fruitful relationship
Mr. George Kafui Agbozo, Chairman of the Sunyani Greenfield Mango Farmers Association, praised the partnership with Blue Skies, saying, “This building is a testament to our strong relationship, because the company currently purchases 70 percent of their mangoes and without their support, the farmers would face serious challenges, as mangoes are highly perishable.
He emphasised the mutual benefits of the collaboration, noting that both parties have grown stronger through the partnership.
Way forward
Through the new Agricultural Resource Centre, Blue Skies aims to promote sustainable farming practices, empower farmers with essential skills and knowledge, and contribute to the growth of the mango value chain and the broader agricultural sector.
By enhancing production practices and post-harvest handling, the centre will help farmers increase yields, meet international quality standards and access premium markets.
The initiative will strengthen every link in the mango value chain from cultivation and processing to distribution positioning Sunyani’s mango farmers for greater competitiveness on both local and global markets.
By Benjamin Akoto
Source: GNA
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