FAO trains small-scale fisheries processors and traders in entrepreneurship and financial literacy in Ghana
©Suad Ahmed, Fisheries Commission
27/11/2024
Accra, Ghana | From 25 to 27 November 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in collaboration with Fisheries Commission and African Skill Hub foundations (ASH foundation), organized a training for 35 participants to enhance essential business skills, focusing on entrepreneurship, financial management, and record-keeping—key areas for managing processing operations.
This training was part of the “Implementing the Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines for Gender Equitable and Climate-Resilient Food Systems and Livelihoods – Phase 2” project. Through this project, FAO is supporting the government to implement the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication (SSF Guidelines) in the country.
Over three days, participants engaged in practical lessons on record-keeping, budgeting, and managing business and personal finances separately. They learned how to allocate financial resources effectively, develop marketing strategies, and maintain financial stability through proper financial planning. The training also encouraged best practices such as using food-grade packaging and cost management.
The facilitators used various teaching methods, including presentations, videos, interactive discussions, and assignments, to enhance learning. The training concluded with group presentations and discussions, where participants shared insights and proposed solutions to challenges such as improper packaging, inadequate record-keeping, and impulsive buying.
“I had some challenges in my business especially when it came to record-keeping. During the training I realized that I was not separating my business and my personal expenditures, I was spending part of my working capital. The training helped me organize my finances in a sustainable way” - said Obaa Yaa, a processor from Ekumfi Narkwa.
A pre-training assessment helped identify knowledge gaps and challenges. Some key issues included difficulties in pricing fish due to high input costs, such as premix fuel and other market factors, which often lead to financial losses. High market tolls also added to production costs, while a lack of proper record-keeping resulted in significant economic setbacks.
To reinforce learning, participants completed both individual and group assignments. Individual tasks focused on budgeting, while group activities involved developing a one-day record-keeping sheet, tracking expenses and income. Each group also compiled lessons learned and outlined how they planned to apply this knowledge in their businesses. These presentations fostered knowledge-sharing and discussions among participants.
Small-scale fish processors are experiencing significant changes in their business operations, handling large volumes of fish, managing substantial financial transactions, and investing in capital assets. This shift marks a departure from the traditionally low-capital, low-technology nature of small-scale fisheries. As a result, training in entrepreneurship and financial literacy is essential to help them succeed in today’s business environment.
“I learned from this training that I need to negotiate better with my wholesale buyer in order not to continue to make losses. I also need to work with other buyers who can buy my products under better terms and conditions” - explained Bridget Annan, a Fish Processor from Axim
The training provided valuable insights, allowing participants to express themselves, share experiences, and exchange knowledge between the inland and marine fisheries sectors.
In her closing remarks, the Greater Accra Regional Director of the Fisheries Commission, Ms. Hannah Adjei-Boakye, expressed appreciation to both facilitators and trainees for their contributions to the success of the training. She encouraged participants to collaborate, share knowledge, and engage with other stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of the fisheries sector.
Learn more
Project | Implementing the Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines for gender-equitable and climate-resilient food systems and livelihoods - phase 2
Access the SSF Guidelines webpage for Ghana
This training was part of the “Implementing the Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines for Gender Equitable and Climate-Resilient Food Systems and Livelihoods – Phase 2” project. Through this project, FAO is supporting the government to implement the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication (SSF Guidelines) in the country.
Over three days, participants engaged in practical lessons on record-keeping, budgeting, and managing business and personal finances separately. They learned how to allocate financial resources effectively, develop marketing strategies, and maintain financial stability through proper financial planning. The training also encouraged best practices such as using food-grade packaging and cost management.
The facilitators used various teaching methods, including presentations, videos, interactive discussions, and assignments, to enhance learning. The training concluded with group presentations and discussions, where participants shared insights and proposed solutions to challenges such as improper packaging, inadequate record-keeping, and impulsive buying.
“I had some challenges in my business especially when it came to record-keeping. During the training I realized that I was not separating my business and my personal expenditures, I was spending part of my working capital. The training helped me organize my finances in a sustainable way” - said Obaa Yaa, a processor from Ekumfi Narkwa.
A pre-training assessment helped identify knowledge gaps and challenges. Some key issues included difficulties in pricing fish due to high input costs, such as premix fuel and other market factors, which often lead to financial losses. High market tolls also added to production costs, while a lack of proper record-keeping resulted in significant economic setbacks.
To reinforce learning, participants completed both individual and group assignments. Individual tasks focused on budgeting, while group activities involved developing a one-day record-keeping sheet, tracking expenses and income. Each group also compiled lessons learned and outlined how they planned to apply this knowledge in their businesses. These presentations fostered knowledge-sharing and discussions among participants.
Small-scale fish processors are experiencing significant changes in their business operations, handling large volumes of fish, managing substantial financial transactions, and investing in capital assets. This shift marks a departure from the traditionally low-capital, low-technology nature of small-scale fisheries. As a result, training in entrepreneurship and financial literacy is essential to help them succeed in today’s business environment.
“I learned from this training that I need to negotiate better with my wholesale buyer in order not to continue to make losses. I also need to work with other buyers who can buy my products under better terms and conditions” - explained Bridget Annan, a Fish Processor from Axim
The training provided valuable insights, allowing participants to express themselves, share experiences, and exchange knowledge between the inland and marine fisheries sectors.
In her closing remarks, the Greater Accra Regional Director of the Fisheries Commission, Ms. Hannah Adjei-Boakye, expressed appreciation to both facilitators and trainees for their contributions to the success of the training. She encouraged participants to collaborate, share knowledge, and engage with other stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of the fisheries sector.
Learn more
Project | Implementing the Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines for gender-equitable and climate-resilient food systems and livelihoods - phase 2
Access the SSF Guidelines webpage for Ghana