In the lush Ashanti Region of Ghana, the Nyame Akwan Citrus Farmers Association (NACFA) has successfully transformed its farming practices. Through a partnership with the Trade for Development Centre (TDC), this Fairtrade-certified cooperative has moved 95% of its members toward organic, climate-smart agriculture while significantly empowering its female workforce.
Founded in 2007 by farmers seeking better markets outside of the cocoa industry, NACFA has grown into a vital organisation for the Atwima Nwabiagya North and Ahafo Ano South districts. However, like many agricultural bodies, the association faced the dual threats of soil degradation and climate change.
Between December 2020 and December 2022, NACFA implemented an ambitious project funded by the TDC: “Enhancing Natural Resource Management, Agroecology Conservation Practices and Resilience to Climate Change in Citrus Production”.
The results of this collaboration have been remarkable, turning 109 local farmers into “agents of change” for their communities.
A massive shift to organic and climate-smart practices
The primary goal of the project was to reduce reliance on conventional chemical farming and restore soil health. The results exceeded expectations:
- Widespread adoption: While the initial target was 75%, the project successfully trained 95% of members (104 farmers) in soil conservation and biodiversity protection.
- Scientific soil management: Farmers moved beyond guesswork. 104 members were trained to use pH strips and soil testing kits to accurately determine mineral deficiencies.
- Regenerative techniques: The cooperative adopted cost-effective, organic solutions. Members now use leguminous cover crops to protect the soil and have replaced expensive chemical fertilisers with organic matter derived from empty fruit bunches, cocoa pod husks, and poultry manure.
- Tangible improvements: The implementation of these techniques, demonstrated across three specific field sites, has led to a “massive improvement” in soil structure, particularly regarding water retention capacities—a critical factor for surviving dry seasons.
Empowering women with technology and leadership
A vital component of the NACFA project was closing the gender gap in agricultural labour and leadership. The association, which is 26% female, sought to ensure women were not just participants, but leaders.
1. Access to gender-sensitive technology.
Historically, physical barriers limited women’s participation in certain farm activities. The project provided training on “gender-sensitive” tools, such as mechanised simple pruners and brush cutters.
- 38 women were trained to use these tools for removing mistletoe and dead branches.
- The introduction of these technologies effectively increased female interest in farming by reducing the physical burden of maintenance work.
2. From the field to the boardroom.
Beyond physical tools, the project invested in human capital.
- Leadership & negotiation: 33 women received training in leadership (setting visions, motivating members) and negotiation skills.
- Market impact: These new skills have better positioned the female members of the association to negotiate prices and secure new markets for their citrus products, contributing to the financial sustainability of their households.
