As part of the ongoing AFJN Ghana Girls Club / Women Yam Project at Chirifoyili, the group leader, Madam Alhassan Sharatu, together with the AFJN Field Coordinator, participated in a two-day capacity-building training organized for Commercial Seed Companies, Certified Seed Entrepreneurs, and Early Generation Seed Producers.
The training was held on Monday and Tuesday at the CSIR–Savannah Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR-SARI) Seminar Hall, Nyankpala, in the Northern Region, under the auspices of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Abuja.
The primary objective of the training was to strengthen the technical and entrepreneurial capacities of seed yam producers, enabling them to produce high-quality seed yam through improved technologies and good agronomic practices. The programme also focused on compliance with seed certification standards and the adoption of sustainable business models.
Sessions were facilitated by a team of yam production experts from Nigeria, CSIR-SARI, and Ghana’s Certified Seed Regulatory Authority, who shared valuable knowledge and practical experiences with participants.
Key Areas of Learning
Participants gained knowledge and skills in:
- Seed yam production using Leaf-Bud Cutting (LBC) and Minituber Technologies
- Seed yam production through Minisett Technology
- Post-harvest management of seed yam
- Seed yam pricing and record-keeping
- Seed certification standards and procedures
- Digital seed tracking and system management
Practical Field Demonstrations
As part of the training, participants undertook a field visit where they received hands-on practical experience in:
- Seed yam production using Leaf-Bud Cutting (LBC) Technology
- Application of Minituber and Minisett Technologies
- Best practices in post-harvest management
The training provided participants with valuable knowledge and practical skills that will contribute to improved seed yam production, enhanced quality standards, and increased economic opportunities for women involved in the AFJN Ghana Girls Club / Women Yam Project at Chirifoyili.
Compiled by Simon Dumba
AFJN Field Coordinator
