Ghana and Ivory Coast to Experience Boost in  Horticulture Competitiveness with the Launch of Hortifresh

HortiFresh has been launched to commence activities within the fruit and vegetable sector in West Africa. The launched program preceded with a mini exhibition where stakeholders displayed fruits and vegetables products in different varieties and forms.

The event was graced by the Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. H.E. Mr. Ron Strikker together with Embassy officials, the Deputy Minister for Agriculture in charge of Horticulture, Hon. George Oduro and other officials from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. The event took place on Thursday, September 20 at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel. In symbolizing the launch of the program, the Deputy Minister for Horticulture, Mr. George Oduro and the Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Mr. Ron Strikker, cut a mango cake and toasted to mango gin both made in Ghana. The programme is being implemented by a consortium of Wageningen UR, SNV Ghana, Resilience, Advance Consulting and SENSE.

Speaking at the event, the Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Mr. Ron Strikker affirmed The Netherlands’ commitment in moving from aid to trade and highlighted the key role of the private sector in this. He especially mentioned opportunities that focus on improving food safety for the domestic market, better quality and added value for export markets. He further called on the financial sector to prioritize the horticulture sector in their loan portfolio; as the programme has identified many reliable companies with profitable business projects.