In a significant stride towards advancing agribusiness innovation and boosting local food processing capacity, YARP Foods, one of the winners of the KIC 2024 AgriTech Challenge Pro, has officially launched its new cassava flour production facility in Ghana on 6th November, 2024.
The production facility, located in Akumsa Dumase, in the Bono East Region of Ghana, represents a milestone for the budding agribusiness, which has been at the forefront of transforming Ghana’s cassava value chain. With a production capacity of 1 tonner per day, the facility is set to gradually meet growing demand in both local and international markets.
Speaking at the launch event Andy Donsah Yeboah, Co-Founder/CEO of YARP Foods, expressed gratitude for the journey so far. “This milestone reflects our commitment to leveraging innovation to create sustainable solutions within the agricultural sector. Cassava, a staple crop in Ghana, has enormous untapped potential, and we aim to redefine its value by producing high-quality cassava flour that caters to the food and industrial sectors,” he said.
From Idea to Impact
YARP Foods’ journey began in the 2024 AgriTech Challenge Pro, a flagship program by Kosmos Innovation Center (KIC) designed to empower entrepreneurs in the agriculture sector with the tools and skills to turn their innovative ideas into impactful businesses. The program is being implemented in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. Winning the challenge provided the team with funding, mentorship, and technical support, paving the way for the realization of their ambitious goals.
“KIC is incredibly proud of what YARP Foods has achieved,” said Benjamin Gyna- Kesse, Executive Director of KIC. “Their success is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the potential of young agribusiness leaders to drive sustainable growth and employment opportunities in Ghana’s agriculture sector.”
Transforming the Cassava Value Chain
Cassava, a key staple in Ghana, is often underutilized despite its versatility and potential economic benefits. YARP Foods is bridging this gap by producing gluten-free cassava flour for use in baking, confectionery, and industrial applications. The facility will also provide a reliable market for local cassava farmers, enhancing their livelihoods and promoting inclusive growth across the value chain.
“We source directly from smallholder farmers, ensuring their livelihoods,” said Andy “Our goal is not only to create a profitable business but also to make a meaningful impact on the lives of farmers and the broader community.” We are also creating employment opportunities for other young people within the community who work within the production facility.
YARP Foods also runs an out-grower scheme where they support farmers with farming inputs. They also organise free training in pastry making for young people within and outside the community to boost employment and livelihood.
Driving Ghana’s Food Processing Industry Forward
YARP Foods’ new facility is poised to contribute to Ghana’s broader food processing agenda, reducing reliance on imported raw materials and promoting local production. The company is also exploring export opportunities, which could position Ghana as a key player in the global cassava flour market.
As YARP Foods continues to grow, its success serves as an inspiration for other entrepreneurs in Ghana’s agriculture sector. By combining innovation, sustainability, and community impact, the company is charting a path for a thriving agribusiness ecosystem in the country.
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