UNIDO Empowering Entrepreneurs: The Success Story of Jodacy Plus
August 2, 2024
Osiru Farm and DAMFA: Empowering Mango Farmers in Shai Osudoku with UNIDO Support
Osiru Farm is a Ghanaian-owned business dedicated to producing fresh and semi-processed mangoes. The semi-processed fruits include a delightful blend of Pine Ginger, Just Pine, yours pinely, Beet Pine, and melony. Reverend Frederick Teye Nartey is the Founder and Managing Director of Osiru Farms.
The company is an active member of the Dangbe Mango Farmers Association (DAMFA). DAMFA is an association of mango producers established in 2006, with 54 active member farmers who cultivate mangoes in orchards ranging from 3 to over 19 acres.
They collectively produce an average of 8,400 metric tonnes of fruit annually, despite facing challenges such as a lack of funds, unfavourable local finance conditions, inadequate equipment, and limited knowledge on improving raw mangoes.
Before UNIDO's intervention, up to 40% of DAMFA produce is lost each year, amounting to approximately 3,400 metric tonnes and resulting in a significant financial loss.
With support from the European Union-financed West Africa Competitiveness Programme (WACOMP) in Ghana, implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), a common processing plant was set up for DAMFA at the Osiru Farms.
UNIDO has been instrumental in assisting with the testing and registration of products with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and in supplying advanced processing equipment to a key member of the Association.
These efforts have significantly reduced post-harvest losses for DAMFA, allowing the association to add value to their mangoes.
As a result, the profitability of mango farming for DAMFA members has increased, promoting economic empowerment and sustainability within the community.
Rev. Frederick Teye Nartey, CEO and Founder of Osiru Farm (2nd left)with some members of DAMFA at the factory
"Without UNIDO, Osiru Farm's aspirations to go global would have been lost amidst the ever-changing market trends and intense competition," he said.
Post UNIDO Intervention:
In addition to enhancing product quality and safety, the advanced processing equipment provided by UNIDO now allows DAMFA Cluster members to diversify their product offerings, thereby reducing the risk associated with relying on a single product and maximizing the economic potential of its mango harvest.
The testimonials from members of DAMFA reflect the profound impact of UNIDO's support, demonstrating the positive transformation and hope it has brought to the community as they use the UNIDO facility to process fruit juice collectively.
"UNIDO's support for Osiru Farm has greatly benefited the Dangbe West Mango Farmers Association (DAMFA). Our main challenge has been limited capacity. We are proud of UNIDO for transforming Osiru Farm into a model example within DAMFA," added Felix Ahiakwa Adjatei, a member of the association.
"I am very grateful to UNIDO for their support in providing advanced machinery to improve processing at Osiru Farm. This assistance comes at a crucial time, as many of us have not seen any processing companies for nearly eight years. UNIDO, you have truly brought smiles to our faces,"
