Ghanaian agricpreneur Olivia Aseitu Kipo has developed a sustainable agricultural system designed to produce crops for Ghanaians all year round.
Recent reports indicate that Ghana’s agricultural sector still faces numerous challenges, including soil degradation, climate change, high post-harvest losses, and limited irrigation systems. Although over 30% of the country’s population is involved in agriculture, long dry seasons and erratic rainfall in the northern region dictate farmers’ fate, causing food insecurity.
Determined to change this, Olivia Kipo is pioneering sustainable farming techniques to ensure year-round food production, job creation, and economic growth in her community.
Kipo’s inspiration for farming
Born and raised in northern Ghana, Olivia Kipo witnessed firsthand the families’ struggle with food shortages during the dry season. The region’s heavy dependence on seasonal rainfall often led to crop failures, which caused food prices to soar uncontrollably and caused widespread malnutrition, affecting thousands of children in the region.
This experience motivated her to pursue studies in food and nutrition at the university, where she later specialised in biochemistry. Her education gave her a deeper understanding of the science behind food production and soil health. Following her studies, she joined the green skills training program offered by Plan International, where she learned sustainable farming techniques.
Kipo’s sustainable farming techniques
In 2019, Olivia Kipo founded Kobaa-Ok Enterprise, a sustainable agribusiness that prioritises eco-friendly farming and supplies fresh vegetables to urban markets. Its farming techniques include covering the soil with organic materials like leaves and straw to prevent water evaporation and suppress weeds.
The agriculture hub also produces organic compost to improve soil fertility and reduce harmful environmental effects instead of relying on chemical fertiliser. Additionally, the startup minimises synthetic pesticides, opting for biological pest control methods that are safer for consumers and the environment.
To ensure a year-round food supply, the Kobaa-Ok Enterprise implements drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting so crops can receive adequate water even during dry seasons. Its farm produce includes cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, cabbages, and chili peppers, which are supplied to hotels, restaurants, and households.
Economic and community impact
Kobaa-Ok Enterprise employs over 30 people, providing a stable income for local families. It also supports local businesses through partnerships with hotels and restaurants to supply food.
In January 2020, the founder received GH₵5,000 ($323.23) in initial funding and business development training to fence her farm and purchase an irrigation machine. She also raised an additional GH₵200,000 ($12929.2) for her business. The farm now operates on 15 acres with a borehole and solar irrigation system, allowing year-round farming and increasing its financial capacity through efficient resource management.
Olivia Kipo is recognised for her excellence in sustainable agriculture and received the Upper West Region’s Best Vegetable Farmer Award for 2023. She actively encourages women to participate in farming by training and mentoring young female farmers, helping them build their agricultural businesses.
