At Red River Foods, our mission goes beyond sourcing the highest quality ingredients. We are dedicated to empowering farmers and protecting the environments that sustain them. A recent trip to Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana highlighted the progress of our initiatives and the positive impact they’re having on local communities.
Pruning and Thinning
Our pruning and thinning campaigns in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana aim to enhance cashew tree health, improve yields, and support farming communities. During our visits, it was evident that farmers not only embraced the program, but also fully understood the long-term benefits of these techniques. While the most significant results are expected within two to three years, the campaign is already making a transformative impact on farms across both regions.
Field visits to six farms in Côte d’Ivoire and several in Ghana revealed the tangible impact of the campaign. From improved tree density to healthier orchards, the work by our teams has set the stage for long-term growth. Farmers shared their gratitude and highlighted how this initiative is helping them invest in their futures.
Community Forests
Our recent check-in with the community forest in Côte d’Ivoire offered a glimpse into its ongoing progress. As the rainy season comes to an end, the forest is naturally overgrown, but many trees and banana plants are showing strong, positive growth.
During this unannounced visit, it was evident that the community remains committed to maintaining the forest. A group cleaning session is already planned for the coming weeks to clear the overgrowth and restore the space. Once complete, our field staff will visit to document the improvements. While challenges remain, the dedication of the community continues to drive meaningful progress.
Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs)
In Ghana, the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) initiative (a creative form of micro-financing, specifically for women and youth) is opening new doors for farmers and their communities. Initially focused on launching and supporting five new groups, the program expanded to include revitalizing 20 existing groups through training and support in partnership with PureTrust Foundation.
These groups, many of which had become inactive due to management challenges, are now thriving. Training sessions have introduced effective group management practices alongside income-generating skills such as soap-making and pastry-making. Recent training sessions in Agosa highlighted the dedication and engagement of participants, demonstrating the program's potential to strengthen financial independence and create sustainable livelihoods.
Beekeeping
In Côte d’Ivoire, the second round of beekeeping training in Raviart showcased a mix of theoretical discussions and hands-on field sessions, equipping participants with practical skills like placing supers on recently colonized hives. The program is steadily laying the groundwork for improved hive management and honey production, with a focus on creating lasting benefits for the community.
In Ghana, the beekeeping program continues to thrive. This year’s expansion included the installation of hives for 20 new participants, many of which are already colonized as the rainy season tapers off. Regular follow-ups are ensuring that farmers maintain baited hives and clean apiary sites. Additionally, a newly constructed processing facility in Bonkwae is set to serve as a hub for honey pressing, filtering, and education.
Nearby, in the Nkoranza area, Blossoms Beekeeping has launched nearly 100 hives near a nature reserve. Farmers are being trained to manage hives under a new arrangement where hive ownership and management costs are covered by the project lead, Stephen, with farmers receiving a percentage of harvested honey to use or sell. These collaborative efforts across both countries are building sustainable livelihoods while fostering awareness of the benefits of beekeeping.
Partner with Red River Foods
By working closely with local partners, we’re helping farmers build stronger livelihoods, invest in their futures, and create lasting change for their families and communities. The progress we’ve seen so far is just the beginning, and we’re excited to continue growing together.
Learn more about our initiatives and how partnering with us can support these efforts, helping farmers thrive while advancing sustainability on a global scale.
