Boasting over three decades of service in the food and agriculture industry, Olam Agri processes and manufactures food items that support the growth of the agriculture sector in Ghana.
“We ensure a consistent and high-quality product and contribute to the growth and prosperity of local agricultural communities.” Amit Agrawal, Country Head of Olam Agri
Amidst the ever-pressing demand for high-quality food, Olam Agri is playing a crucial role in the food supply chain across continents, producing grains, oilseeds, edible oils, and rice, among others. The firm’s perennial service has spanned over three decades, with strategic investments in Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Senegal. In Ghana, Olam Agri is engaged in the production, processing, distribution, and export of agricultural products and food items to international markets. “We source rice locally from Ghanaian farmers. We ensure a consistent and high-quality product and contribute to the growth and prosperity of local agricultural communities,” says Amit Agrawal, Country Head of Olam Agri.
After sourcing agricultural products locally, Olam Agri processes grains, rice, and cotton and manufactures value-added products such as flour, pasta, semolina, fortified rice, and animal feeds. The firm transports and distributes these products while deriving cost advantages and managing risks. “We invest in state-of-the-art facilities and leverage our grain processing and nutrition expertise to enhance food security, meet the rising demand for protein and carbohydrates, and create value for stakeholders along the value chain,” Agrawal says. “We are also expanding our capabilities in the natural fiber sector, such as rubber processing and cotton, to drive sustainable agricultural development in Africa.”
The Country Head emphasizes that the company’s diverse portfolio spanning multiple agricultural value chains, including rice and wheat milling, allows it to stay resilient against changing market fluctuations and shifting customer preferences. “Our diversified approach not only spreads risk but also enables us to capitalize on emerging opportunities and adapt quickly to evolving market dynamics,” Agrawal says.
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A few years back, Olam Agri in Ghana launched its locally grown and sourced rice brand – Mama Gold, to support the development of rice farming in Ghana and the government’s initiative to boost domestic rice production and processing to promote self-sufficiency as well as improve the country’s foreign exchange potential. “We connect Ghanaian rice farmers to local millers, a critical pillar of our integrated value chain approach to enhance market access and reduce post-harvest losses. Our strategy involves increasing our upport for local paddy farmers by providing them access to modern agricultural techniques, high-quality seeds, and training programs,” says Agrawal. One of the milestones Olam Agri has achieved in Ghana’s agriculture industry is the introduction of fortified rice. “We are the first to introduce a fortified rice brand to the Ghanaian market, enriched with essential vitamins and minerals. This can help combat prevalent nutrient deficiencies, particularly among vulnerable populations,” notes Agrawal.
The firm prioritizes investments in processing facilities, agronomic research, and farmer support programs through its corporate social responsibility projects that contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic development. Rural communities where Olam Agri operates benefit from the firm’s social welfare and economic empowerment programs, which include farmer training, access to finance, and investment in social inf rastructure. “Our “Grains of Friendship” initiative aims to educate bakers on flour production, quality control, and best baking practices to enhance their understanding for better productivity. We initiated “My Healthy Baker” with healthcare experts in our commitment to baker well-being. This program offers free health screenings for over 1,100 bakers and staff in Ghana, with 15 screening sessions conducted since its launch,” says Agrawal.
In response to the pernicious environmental consequences of agriculture, such as deforestation and soil degradation, Olam Agri accords an important value to sustainability. “By implementing techniques such as crop rotation, agroforestry, and integrated pest management, we minimize environmental impact while optimizing yields and ensuring the long-term viability of farming landscapes,” Agrawal says.
Earlier in 2024, Olam Agri was recognized as the Top Employer in Ghana for the 4th consecutive year, demonstrating its compliance with international standards not only in food production but also in human resource management. Olam Agri’s successful track record and longevity in the Ghanaian market demonstrate the firm’s commitment to delivering value and driving sustainable growth.
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