Madam Veronica Abrokwah, a 30-year-old nurse turned tomato farmer and processor, living in Akumadan, Ghana. During in the night time , she saves lives at the Janie Speaks A. M. E. Zion Hospital; and During the day, she nurtures her thriving agribusiness. Veronica’s dual roles may seem worlds apart, but she’s proving that with determination and the right support, passion can meet purpose.
From Challenges to Triumph
Veronica’s agribusiness journey began in 2023, when she rented a one-acre plot to cultivate tomatoes. Despite an initial harvest of 8 boxes, post-harvest losses left her with only 10% profit.
However, everything changed in September 2024, when she participated in TechnoServe’s Harnessing Agricultural Productivity and Prosperity for Youth (HAPPY) program. This initiative, backed by the Mastercard Foundation and Agri-Impact Limited, equipped her with essential skills in good agronomic practices, post-harvest loss management, and tomato processing.
A key takeaway from the program was the importance of group formation for collective bargaining and market access. Veronica teamed up with 19 other young women to form Agat Royal Farmers, an all-female group that benefits from knowledge-sharing sessions and market linkages. This collaboration has dramatically improved her profits.
With enhanced skills and collective bargaining power, Veronica:
– Reduced Land Rental Costs: Now pays GH¢600 instead of GH¢650.
– Increased Yields: Doubled her production from 8-10 boxes to 15-20 boxes per season.
– Boosted Income: Earns GH¢5,000 per season, a 45% increase
In 2025, Veronica plans to:
– Expand to Five Acres: Growing her tomato production and processing business.
– Employ Two Young Women: Creating opportunities for others in her community.
Veronica’s story showcases the potential for women in Ghana to achieve economic independence and career diversification. With the right guidance and networks, her dream of creating more opportunities for women in Akumadan is becoming a reality.
