Empowering vulnerable women with palm oil and kernel oil processing facility, a dream come true

Asaasiam Vision International (AVI), a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), has inaugurated a state-of-the-art palm oil and palm kernel oil processing facility in Akyem Oda Nkwanta, located in Ghana's Eastern Region.

The project, dubbed Vulnerable Women Economic Empowerment – Women in Palm Oil and Palm Kernel Production, aims to empower 200 vulnerable women in the community, fostering financial independence and improving livelihoods.

Transforming Lives Through Economic Empowerment

At the commissioning event on November 29, 2024, Dr. Joseph Asare, the founder of AVI, described the project as a realization of a long-held dream. “My vision is to make the world a better place for all, especially women, children, and persons living with disabilities,” he remarked. Dr. Asare emphasized that the facility would not only transform the lives of the women and their families but also contribute to addressing Ghana’s socio-economic challenges.

He encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace the opportunity and see themselves as co-owners of the initiative. “Work hard to promote the growth of this project so that others can benefit in the future,” he urged.

Collaborative Efforts and Community Support

Dr. Asare expressed gratitude to Mr. Donald Didier, Board Chair, and Mrs. Alodie Didier, Special Advisor to the Board, for financing 70% of the project. The remaining 30% was funded by other board members. “This project was made possible through the generous support of individuals who believe in Asaasiam's vision,” he stated, calling on the community to support and ensure the project’s sustainability.

Nana Ofosuhene Apenteng II, Akwamuhene of Akyem Oda Nkwanta, commended AVI for its impactful work. He expressed gratitude for selecting the community for such a transformative initiative and pledged local support to help the project achieve its objectives.

Addressing Challenges in Palm Oil Production

The project targets 200 vulnerable women, primarily small-scale palm plantation farmers, to engage in commercial palm oil and palm kernel oil production. These women have traditionally faced significant post-harvest losses due to outdated harvesting techniques, lack of market access, and inefficient processing methods, leading to 40-45% losses. The new facility aims to reduce these losses, generate additional income, and create indirect employment opportunities for 300 more women.

Beyond economic empowerment, the project also seeks to support palm plantation farming and provide educational opportunities for the beneficiaries' children.

Key Stakeholders and Organizational Impact

Other notable attendees at the ceremony included Fr. Stephen Asare, Executive Director of AVI; Madam Theresa Frempomaa Somuah, Women Programs Coordinator; and Mr. and Mrs. Didier, who played pivotal roles in bringing the project to fruition.

Since its establishment in 2012, AVI has transformed over 2,500 lives by providing literacy, vocational, and technical skills development for impoverished youth and persons with disabilities. Its residential education program covers both the education and shelter of underprivileged youth. Additionally, over 1,000 vulnerable women across 25 deprived communities in Ghana have benefited from AVI’s economic empowerment initiatives.

Asaasiam Vision International remains committed to promoting sustainable development through economic empowerment, literacy, and environmental action, furthering its mission to transform lives across Ghana.