FY 2017 ANNUAL REPORT OCTOBER 1, 2016 TO …farmer-to-farmer.org/sites/default/files/resource/files/ifssp_fy17... · FY 2017 ANNUAL REPORT OCTOBER 1, 2016 TO ... IPM Integrated pest

FY 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

OCTOBER 1, 2016 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2017

Submitted October 13, 2017

IFSSP FY 2017 Annual Report ii

Prepared under Sub-Award No. PDP-2016-01, Associate Cooperative Agreement No. AID-OAA-A-13-

00053, Improving Food Safety Systems Project.

VEGA Contact: Laura Alexander

Senior Program Manager

Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance (VEGA)

734 15th Street NW, 11th Floor

Washington, DC 20005

Tel: (202) 367 9986

Email: [email protected]

IESC Contact: Kayla Sainato

Program Manager

International Executive Service Corps (IESC)

1900 M Street NW, Suite 500

Washington, DC 20036

Tel: (202) 589 2630

Email: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

IFSSP FY 2017 Annual Report iii

1.0 Executive summary 1

2.0 Summary of Project Implementation 2

3.0 Key Accomplishments 17

4.0 Challenges & Deviations 19

5.0 Lessons learned and Best Practices 20

6.0 Planned Activities 21

7.0 F2F Performance and Impact Indicator Tables 24

8.0 Volunteer Screening and Monitoring 24

Annex A: Indicator Table 25

Annex B: IFSSP Custom Indicators 25

Annex C: Volunteer Assignments 25

Annex D: PERSUAP Reporting 34

Annex E: Success Stories 38

Annex F: Volunteer Trip Reports 47

IFSSP FY 2017 Annual Report iv

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

AGOA African Growth Opportunities Act

EU European Union

F2F Farmer-to-Farmer

FAMU Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

FBO Farmer-based organization

FDA Food and Drugs Authority

GAO Government Accountability Office

GAP Good agricultural practices

GAVEX Ghana Association of Vegetables Exporter

GEPA Ghana Export Promotion Authority

GSA Ghana Standards Authority

IESC International Executive Service Corps

IFSSP Improving Food Safety Systems Project

IPM Integrated pest management

IPPC International Plant Protection Convention

ISPM International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures

MBBS Mango Bacterial Black Spot

MEL Monitoring, evaluation, and learning

METSS Monitoring, Evaluation, and Technical Support Services

MOFA Ministry of Food and Agriculture

PERSUAP Pesticide Evaluation Report and Safer Use Action Plan

PPRSD Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate

SOW Scope of work

SPS Sanitary and phytosanitary

SPSP Special Program Support Project

SUAP Safer Use Action Plan

TOT Training of trainers

USAID United Sates Agency for International Development

VEGA Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance

VEPEAG Vegetable Producers & Exporters Association of Ghana

WIAD Women in Agricultural Development

IFSSP FY 2017 Annual Report

1

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

International Executive Service Corps (IESC) is pleased to submit its second annual report for

the Improving Food Safety Systems Project (IFSSP) being implemented in Ghana. This report

covers the twelve-month period between October 1, 2016 and September 30, 2017. During

this period, IFSSP conducted targeted interventions and completed critical activities related to

all three of the project’s components: produce traceability system development, value chain

sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) improvement and coordination on strengthening

certification systems.

In FY 2017, IFSSP accomplished the following:

• Delivered a blueprint for a viable, coordinated traceability platform for Ghana

horticulture as a significant outcome of the IFSSP project in 2017. Recognizing that

certification and traceability must work at all levels of the value chain within the

horticulture ecosystem, IFSSP successfully engaged all necessary public and private

sector actors from farm based organizations to major exporters and MOFA to build

consensus and gain commitment for development of traceability for Ghana

horticulture.

• Established the Traceability Development Committee to ensure coordination on the

approach for traceability and certification moving forward. IFSSP has achieved

unprecedented collaboration and consensus by conducting quantitative and qualitative

assessment of resources, constraints, and current practices through transparent

evidence collection, market actor focus group engagement, and farm visits and

research.

• IFSSP identified, procured and delivered the necessary tools to Plant Protection and

Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD) for inspectors to conduct comprehensive

horticulture phytosanitary inspections at key export points.

• IFSSP Trained 40 SPS inspectors in the effective use of these tools at the work site so

that technology is fully embedded in inspection practices. This intervention allowed

PPRSD to demonstrate inspection capacity consistent with applicable international

standards for produce safety and quality at the time of EU inspections in September.

• Upon request from MOFA Taskforce, IFSSP team members, volunteers, and consultants

took the lead with PPRSD to ensure that all relevant public and commercial entities

were prepared, equipped, and trained to present Ghana’s strong case to the EU audit

delegation. IFSSP delivered the presentation and plans for the traceability system to

EU auditors in September 2017. EU auditors were impressed by the presentation and

noted that Ghana had made substantial progress to addressing this major gap.

• Initiated system configuration for traceability and agreed on schedule for piloting with

both private and public actors.


2

• IFSSP designed SPS best practice models and improvement plans for chili and mango

value chains. The resulting SPS improvement model has been delivered to 1,800

persons in training across Ghana. As an initial measure of impact from this, 626 more

farmer-beneficiaries now adhere to good agricultural practices.

• These achievements were accomplished with the support of 23 IFSSP volunteers who

directly assisted 2,020 beneficiaries. Highlights include:

o A standards integration framework developed by a food safety volunteer expert.

This framework was used by IFSSP to develop SPS model training and build

capacity of stakeholder to comply with international SPS standards.

o A comprehensive training delivered to PPRSD on identification and inspection of

pests and diseases by a taxonomic volunteer expert. Through this training,

IFSSP ensured that 80 inspectors and relevant PPRSD staff were trained in

taxonomy and then able to demonstrate this critical knowledge to EU auditors.

o A mock audit conducted on PRRSD by an International Standards for Phyto-

Sanitary Measures (ISPMs) volunteer expert ahead of the EU audit. The results

of this pre-audit allowed IFSSP to identify gaps and create an action plan for

targeted improvements to be made ahead of the auditors’ arrival in September.

The fiscal year 2017 annual report will be discussed under the following sub-headings:

summary of project implementation, key accomplishments, challenges and deviations,

lessons learned and best practices, planned activities, volunteer assignments, F2F standard

and custom indicator tables, PERSUAP reporting, and volunteer screening and monitoring.

2.0 SUMMARY OF PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION

This section provides an overview of key

activities undertaken by the project

between October 1, 2016 and

September 30, 2017. FY 2017 was a

very busy year for IFSSP as the project

moved into full implementation of

activities planned under all three project

components. The discussion in this

section covers project interventions and

activities, as well as outcomes. The

support IFSSP provided to both PPRSD

and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture

(MOFA) Taskforce in preparation for the

European Union (EU) audit, conducted

in September 2017, paid off greatly.

The high auditors expressed

Members of Torgorme Area Cooperative Farmers Union participate in organizational development

training


3

satisfaction, in their initial feedback, that all deficiencies identified in 2016 related to the

IFSSP’s interventions have been addressed sufficiently. Overall, five of the eight issues raised

during the 2016 audit were fully addressed. With the MOFA Taskforce, IFSSP worked to

improve collaboration and coordination among private sector players and certification and

inspection agencies, especially in regard to SPS improvement and traceability development.

In summary, the project focused heavily on convening and coordinating with public and

private sector stakeholders in FY 2017 to ensure buy-in for the development of a produce

traceability system that is sustainable because it will address the needs of the international

export market; large scale producers and exporters in Ghana, and also provide inclusion for

small farmers. At the farm level, IFSSP project volunteers reinforced the national level

traceability developments with training and transfer of best practices that improve production

methods, quality, and enhance compliance with international safety standards for mango and

chili producers. These activities were carried out in a concerted effort and geared toward

removing barriers and improving access to markets for Ghana’s farmers.

2.1 COMPONENT ONE: PRODUCE TRACEABILITY SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT

The 2016 EU audit findings revealed that produce traceability remained one of the weakest

links in the country’s agricultural export system. Therefore, IFSSP worked with key

stakeholders on the development of a private-sector driven produce traceability system.

Additionally, IFSSP utilized the traceability development process to strengthen the level of

collaboration among both public and private sector stakeholders because previously this

coordination was lacking and led to systemic deficiencies. IFSSP also built the capacity of

these stakeholders to adhere to international standards and also ensure that these standards

are integrated into the traceability system. In addition, the project began the development of

a full produce traceability system for horticulture. All the activities completed by IFSSP will

ensure that the groundwork has been laid for a compliant and sustainable traceability

system.

2.1.1 PUBLIC PRIVATE COLLABORATION TO DEVELOP

STREAMLINED TRACEABILITY FRAMEWORK

Under this sub-component, IFSSP facilitated a collaborative effort between public and private

stakeholders to develop a clear framework to implement produce traceability in the country.

IFSSP recognizes that a viable and sustainable national produce traceability system will

require the full and willing participation of all relevant public and private sector actors. Much

of the information needed for the full functioning of the system will be generated by both

public and private sector actors. While the public sector is responsible for regulation and

certification, the private sector feeds the system with information collected at all levels along

the chain, from the farm to the exit point. This is a complex relationship that requires

extensive collaboration and a framework to guide the working interactions. Unfortunately, at


4

the onset of the project, Ghana did not have an agreed-upon traceability framework that all

actors could rely on and abide by. PPRSD only had a very weak and limited manual produce

traceability system which exporters were abusing. GEPA also had a prototype export

certification system which had not been tested to determine its suitability for produce

traceability. These challenges indicated that stakeholders were not working together on the

development of a common solution. IFSSP, thus, set out to work conscientiously with its

public and private sector stakeholders, together, towards developing and agreeing on the

parameters for a national produce traceability system. The project achieved this by

conducting assessments of the current environment and system, setting up a multi-

stakeholder traceability development committee, engaging the services of consultants and

volunteers to work collaboratively with public and private sector stakeholders, and building

the capacity of stakeholders through training. These activities were carried out with two

intents: first, to develop a traceability framework; and second, to improve stakeholder

coordination.

The project established a traceability development committee to convene key stakeholders,

improve collaboration, and shape technical discussions on the development of the traceability

framework. The committee was also set up to serve as a platform for consultation and active

participation by all stakeholders as a buy-in strategy. Although the committee was primarily

made up of the public sector at the beginning, private sector involvement was quickly

prioritized and increased. Assessments, system testing, and meetings to validate assessment

reports and discuss traceability system options therefore included heavy involvement of the

private sector. This has been part of the strategy to ensure that both public and private

sector actors work together on the development of the system. Exporters who have been

involved in consultative meetings, training, or system testing activities include Vegpro Ghana

Limited, Dansak Farms, Bomarts Farm Limited, Blue Skies Limited, Joekopam, M.G farms,

Milan Ghana, Wad African Foods, Trosky Farms, A.T. Mahli Farms, Eve-lyn Farms, Srighan

Farms Limited, FFINT Consult, Dhillon Farms, and Cotton Web Link Portfolio Limited.

In addition to establishing the traceability development committee, IFSSP conducted multiple

assessments, led by consultants and volunteers, to understand the current state of

traceability in Ghana, as well as evaluate a potential traceability prototype solution, and

make a determination on the way forward for the full development of a traceability system.

The findings of these assessments were presented to and validated by members of the

traceability development committee and other stakeholders. The objective of the first

assessment, conducted between October and November 2016, was to understand the

traceability needs of both the private and public sector, assess the relevance and

functionality of the prototype electronic system being developed for PPRSD by the local

software development company, Silent Star Limited, and then make recommendations on

IFSSP’s support strategy. The first assessment, concluded that Silent Star’s software

(“PPRSDNet Version 1.0”) was viable for electronically recording inspections and certification


5

data related to crop production and pack houses. The assessment recommended changes

required to ensure certification functionality was achieved for certification. The then project

engaged a long-term volunteer expert from February through April 2017. The volunteer

worked to develop the capacity of PPRSD and GEPA to ensure that standard operating

procedures were in place for the traceability function across key government departments.

“Working with a consortium of stakeholders is key in achieving the success of the

traceability system we need for the fruits and vegetable sector. Our partnership

with the USAID/IFSSP project on SPS issues has been of great benefit to our

work even at the field level and we look forward to further collaborations with the

on-going on boarding to traceability.” – Ms. Jennifer Addo, Senior Officer at the

Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Department (PPRSD) of the Ministry of

Food and Agriculture in Ghana.

IFSSP engaged GeoTraceability, an international traceability development company, to

conduct an assessment, as well as observe the initial stages of the PPRSDnet software pilot

and assess the overall need for produce traceability. The approach included an assessment of

the front-end of the system, and extensive meetings with relevant stakeholders, including

PPRSD, GEPA, as well as private sector actors such as Bomarts Farms in Nsawam, Golden

Exotics Limited in Weija, and Srighan Farms in Accra. The exporters shared their views on the

software developed, how it can work alongside their own traceability systems, and their

general impressions about the strengths and weaknesses of the software. The assessment

also included a visit to PPRSD’s inspection point at the Kotoka International Airport as well as

testing the functionality of “PPRSDNet”. The conclusions of the assessment were as follows:

firstly, gaps still existed and had to be addressed to achieve a full traceability solution,

promote the sustainability of the system, and share its value with the various supply chain

actors and partners; and secondly, all the stakeholders and the private sector would benefit

from introducing an internationally-recognized traceability system.

The above discussed activities under this sub-component have yielded many benefits. First,

the assessments have enabled IFSSP and its stakeholders to develop a collaborative

framework for traceability that fully engages both the private and public sector. Through this

framework, stakeholders have agreed upon on a two-system approach that decouples

certification and traceability, and would result in maximum benefit for the regulators,

farmers, exporters, packers, and other value chain actors. Silent Star, a local Ghanaian


6

software development company, is working in partnership with PPRSD on an electronic

certification system to be operated by PPRSD that will facilitate certification of compliant

outgrowers and their fields, pack houses, and exporters, as well as facilitate inspection and

compliance assessment prior to export. While the system is currently at the testing stage,

IFSSP is working with Silent Star to ensure all the necessary system design and

documentation requirements are completely fulfilled. If the certification system proves to be

viable, the plan is to integrate the traceability system with the certification system so that

data can be shared between the two systems and be available to relevant stakeholders.

Second, the collaborative approaches adopted by the project resulted in increased

participation of the private sector in produce traceability development, as well as increased

inter-agency collaboration. For example, GEPA has been working with PPRSD to test the

certification system, otherwise known as “PPRSDNet”. PPRSD and FDA are also working

together on protocols for certifying pack houses.

2.1.2 BRING NATIONAL TRACEABILITY SYSTEM INTO COMPLIANCE

WITH INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS

In addition to working with public and private sector stakeholders towards the development

of a traceability framework, the project also worked towards ensuring that the country’s SPS-

improvement and traceability systems would be informed by the applicable international

standards. This was necessary to ensure that the market requirements of the EU-member

states are duly incorporated into the design of the system. Therefore, targeted interventions

were carried out to ensure a strong basis the development of the system. The activities

included assessments and studies, and the provision technical support and capacity building

based on the findings and recommendations of the assessments.

IFSSP deployed a food safety expert volunteer to design and deliver an approach and

curriculum to integrate applicable international standards into IFSSP’s training series. This

included integrating standards into upcoming SPS training and supporting the development of

training methodology for SPS. As a follow-on activity, IFSSP then hosted a training for PPRSD

on World Trade Organization-Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement (WTO-SPS),

International Plant Protection and Convention (IPPC), and the European Union. Through this

assignment, eight inspectors were trained on compliance to ISPMs by a volunteer technical

expert with vast experience in these standards.

In July 2017, the same technical volunteer completed a second assignment in which he

conducted a mock pre-audit assessment of Ghana’s SPS compliance system and identified

areas that needed strengthening before the EU audit in September 2017. Key results included

ensuring that the required tools and equipment for proper inspection were available, and that

inspectors have greater access to information, especially pictures of organisms that are on

the quarantine list for the EU.


7

In addition to the reviews and trainings related to

ensuring compliance with applicable standards, IFSSP

supplied PPRSD with necessary SPS inspection

equipment. In response to requests from PPRSD, and

as confirmed by the above recommendations, IFSSP

provided inspection equipment to PPRSD to improve the

quality of inspections done at key points of export,

especially Kotoka International Airport in Accra where

the bulk of horticultural exports are exported from. The

effectiveness of these inspection operations is crucial to

PPRSD’s ability to adhere to applicable standards and

Ghana’s overall ability to export products. The

equipment procured included ten stereo microscopes

with USB cameras, 30 entomology dissection kits, 30

microscope pens, 30 heavy grade flashlights, and one

digital camera for PPRSD. The projected also recruited

a local volunteer expert from the University of Ghana to

train 40 SPS inspectors on the effective use, handling,

and maintenance of the SPS inspection equipment for

efficient insect pest and disease identification and control. Overall, IFSSP’s interventions

through this area ensured that Ghana was able to demonstrate its ability to adhere to

applicable standards during the EU audit as well as laid the groundwork for ensuring that the

traceability system is also compliant to the same standards.

“This new produce inspection facility comes in the wake of the Ministry [of Food

and Agriculture] and stakeholder’s effort to enhance infrastructure at the exit

ports, particularly for produce inspection. We now have new and standard tools

and equipment to enhance our work thanks to USAID/IFSSP who donated the

equipment and complimented it with use and maintenance training for SPS

inspectors working at the ports of the country. We are confident our commitment

to ensure best practices and best use of the equipment will promote the sector and

assist in the lifting of the three-year ban on some fruit and vegetable produce to

the EU market.” – Mr. Samuel Nana Okyere, a sanitary inspection officer at the

Kotoka International Airport

IFSSP project country director tests microscope provided to PRRSD


8

2.1.3 TOOLS AND INFRASTRUCTURE TO IMPLEMENT TRACEABILITY

SYSTEM

Under this sub-component, IFSSP set out to identify and procure the critical infrastructure

and tools needed for the functioning of a full and comprehensive produce traceability system.

From the outcomes of the assessments conducted and the need for an internationally

recognized traceability system to address gaps as identified under 2.1.1, IFSSP procured the

services of GeoTraceability to develop and pilot the traceability system. To begin the process

of system development, in July 2017, GeoTraceability conducted a needs assessment of key

project stakeholders, and collected preliminary data for the development of the system. As

part of the assessment, the company’s representative met with exporters, including, AT Mahli

Farms, Srigan Farms, and five vegetable farmers from the Ga South Municipality. Through

discussions and questionnaires, the company collected business process and produce flow

information from these exporters and producers to inform the design of the traceability

system. The findings and outcomes of the needs assessment were pivotal to the development

of system options for stakeholders ahead of the EU audit in September 2017.

From the extensive consultations with the IFSSP team and stakeholders and incorporation of

feedback, GeoTraceability presented IFSSP with a draft system blueprint for the traceability

system on September 30, 2017. The blueprint detailed the system overview and

components, including data visualization acquisition platforms, data editing and

configuration, track software, and mobile application. Additionally, supply chain entities’

identification and recording traceability data elements were presented. The report also

contained information on reporting, training, and project management. GeoTraceability joined

IFSSP Country Director and the taskforce to present Ghana’s planned traceability solution to

the EU audit team. As a next step, IFSSP plans to convene stakeholders to fully present the

blueprint and obtain feedback before it is finalized and the system is developed.

The project also plans to repurpose the equipment originally purchased to test the

certification system for the traceability system. This includes the laptop and five tablets that

were procured by the project for system testing and piloting activities of the certification

system in March 2017. These were used for testing the electronic certification system at

PPRSD head office, KIA, Tema Harbor, Takoradi Harbor, and Aflao border, and will also be

used for testing and piloting the full traceability system. The way in which these tools will be

repurposed will be finalized by the blueprint and system configuration. Additionally, since the

traceability system will be utilized by other key stakeholders, not solely PPRSD, there will be

a need to procure additional equipment. The equipment needs will also be finalized with the

blueprint and system configuration.


9

2.2 COMPONENT TWO: VALUE CHAIN SANITARY/PHYTOSANITARY

IMPROVEMENT

Improvements in SPS compliance and related practices along the mango and chili value

chains have been one of the critical interventions that IFSSP focused its efforts in the past

year—particularly, the promotion and adoption of good agricultural practices that mitigate

non-compliant agricultural production methods at the farm level. This was achieved mainly

by building the capacity of farmers and other value chain actors through demand-driven

trainings. The work began with an integrated pest management (IPM) assessment and

subsequent validation visits. From this work, IFSSP developed strategic scopes of work and

fielded volunteer specialists who focused on the following training topics: agronomy, good

record keeping, postharvest handling, pest identification and management, and

organizational development. The purpose of these volunteer placements was to increase the

capacity of value chain actors and to enable them to improve upon produce quality and

handling techniques as well as to comply with applicable international standards.

2.2.1 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT AND VALUE CHAIN

ASSESSMENTS

Under this sub-component, the project set-out to identify and prioritize key gaps and

constraints along the target value chains that limit the production and export of fruits and

vegetables to the EU market. This was necessary to ensure that IFSSP’s interventions would

respond to relevant sectoral constraints and challenges. Some of the reasons leading to the

ban on exportation of vegetables from Ghana to the European Union market included high

chemical residue levels in export products, worm infestations, poor packaging and injured

fruits. The project needed a clear and contextual understanding of the structural/systemic

causes of these challenges to be able to propose solutions that could address the problems at

the root. The project also needed a clear understanding of stakeholder roles along the value

chain and where the corresponding weaknesses existed. For this diagnosis to take place,

IFSSP carried out two significant activities. First, IFSSP carried out an integrated pest

management-focused assessment of the mango and chili value chains. Secondly, the

project’s in-country staff completed extensive stakeholder consultations and conducted a field

validation exercise. These two activities provided the project with findings and

recommendations that shaped the conceptualization, development and piloting of a national

SPS improvement system as discussed in the next section (2.2.2).

To carry out the IPM-focused value chain assessment, a program design team and an IPM

volunteer expert were fielded by the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) to

identify critical constraints to SPS compliance along the value chains. The assessment

covered input sourcing and monitoring, including registration of agrochemical dealers and

agrochemicals; input application, including timing, safety, and environmental safeguards;


10

and presence and management of pest issues at the farm level. The expert employed a

variety of methods in carrying out the assessment; including direct observation of farmer-

practices, interviews with farmers and other value chain actors, interviews with regulators,

and review of relevant legislation and policy frameworks for Ghana. The VE met with 6

government organizations and interacted with 20 individuals working in those organization.

He also interacted with 5 packers, 4 farmer-based organizations, and 114 farmers. The

assessment concluded that a clear value chain is present; however, smallholder farmers, who

serve as out growers for the larger producers, packers, and exporters, face resource and

technical constraints to compliance. The assessment also found that pest identification and

knowledge of pest biology was limited and, thus, recommended training in good agricultural

practices and integrated pest management for farmers and other value chain actors.

Additionally, the assessment recommended training in record keeping for farmers and

organizational capacity building for farmer-based organizations (FBOs).

To validate the findings of the assessment and identify

other needs along the value chains, the project’s

technical advisor and MEL specialist also carried out field

visits and stakeholder and beneficiary consultations.

Throughout these visits, farmer associations and

exporters in 18 administrative districts, spread across

five regions, were visited. Across the districts visited, 80

farmer-based organizations were identified through

exporters and MOFA staff. Eight were in the mango

value chains while 72 were within the vegetable value

chains. From these FBOs, approximately 3,400 farmers

were identified as potential project beneficiaries and

their corresponding fields and plots were identified as

potential sites for the model SPS improvements. The

field visits confirmed issues and validated the key

findings of the earlier IPM assessment. These included

weak links to markets, weak FBOs, prevalence of mango

bacteria black spot (MBBS) and fruit flies, absence of pack houses in the production zones,

and limited access to inputs. Overall, these assessments were very critical to enable the

project to determine relevant training topics for the various value chain actors. These

interventions also formed the basis for the development and piloting of the national SPS

improvement system, discussed in the next sub-section (2.2.2).

2.2.2 DEVELOP AND INTRODUCE MODEL SPS IMPROVEMENT SYSTEMS

Under this subcomponent, the project worked to: first, conceptualize and develop cost-

effective, scalable, and sustainable model SPS improvement systems in the assessed value

Volunteer expert teaching the

importance of proper soil preparation to members of the

Eastern Gomoa Vegetable Growers Association


11

chains; and second, pilot and implement the systems. The model SPS-systems, comprising 5

prioritized training topics, were developed to address limited knowledge of good agricultural

practices, poor record keeping, weak farmer-based organizations, weak inspection

mechanisms at the exit points, low knowledge on integrated pest management practices,

poor postharvest handling practices, and wrongful handling and application of pesticides.

Another critical need identified specific to the mango value chain was preventing and

controlling mango bacterial black spot (MBBS) disease, which the project addressed. The

model SPS improvement systems developed by the project, and introduced to value chain

actors, promotes producer use of market-oriented standards in production, improves

monitoring and screening of produce for export, builds the organizational capacity of host

organizations and increases the safe and effective use of pesticides. This training series was

the core of the project’s cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable model for SPS interventions

that was introduced in FY 2017.

In FY 2017, the project fielded seven agronomist volunteer experts who provided training to

956 persons, comprising 918 farmers and 38 agriculture officers. The main purpose of the

agronomy training was to enhance skills and build capacity of vegetable producers, especially

chili producers, in recommended agricultural best practices to improve quality and SPS

compliance. The training was also used to promote farmer adoption and application of good

agricultural practices. The agronomy training series focused on the following topics:

importance of good agricultural practices; site selection and land preparation; soil fertility

and nutrient management; water resources and irrigation practices; seed, crop selection, and

seedling management; hygiene in the field; and assessment of produce maturity and

harvesting. Many of the farmers who received agronomy training are already linked to

exporters, and it is expected that the technical assistance they have received will enable

them to produce SPS-compliant vegetables for the export market.

“In the beginning, I was skeptical, but because the training was done on the

model vegetable farm, I decided to participate and once I saw the result, I am

convinced that farming chili is profitable if I apply all the information I have

learned from this training.” – Madam Zuta, member of the Weija Irrigation Water

Users Association, after attending a farm-level training organized by IFSSP

To address the initial finding that smallholder farmers had poor recording keeping practices,

the project included record keeping best practices as a critical component of the sequential


12

SPS model improvement training series at the farm-level. In FY 2017, IFSSP fielded one

volunteer expert who provided training to 375 farmers and 15 extension agents from three

districts (Ga South, Agona East, and Gomoa East). The volunteer led participants through

templates designed to collect farm-level information such as inventory records, production

records, daily and input log, expenditure and income records, as well as special or

supplementary records.

Another targeted area of intervention under introducing model SPS improvement systems

was building the organizational capacity of FBOs. IFSSP fielded three volunteers during this

period who provided direct assistance to 171 persons, including 157 FBO leaders and 14

extension agents. The training addressed the gaps identified in the organizational

development assessment conducted with FBOs by IFSSP. The training covered topics such as

group formation, group dynamics, organizational record keeping, financial management, and

entrepreneurship. The volunteers also worked with the associations to implement best

practices in FBO management.

In addition to the farm-level training series, IFSSP also supported 88 mango value chain

actors through post-harvest handling and packaging training in the coastal savanna region of

Ghana. This training was in response to the project’s observation that knowledge on post-

harvest handling was low among Ghana’s farmers producing mangos. The main purpose of

the training was to equip mango producers with the knowledge and skills required for

efficient post-harvest handling and packaging of mangoes.

The training exercise included field visits to observe farmer

practices in post-harvest handling, and the design and

delivery of training based on field observations. The

beneficiary FBOs included Yilo Krobo Mango Producers

Association and Lower and Upper Manya Mango Producers

Association.

IFSSP farmer-level training also targeted a critical need

along the mango value chain—controlling and preventing

MBBS disease. In the Brong-Ahafo Region of Ghana, IFSSP

provided training to 195 mango farmers on effective

strategies for combating MBBS. MBBS affects all parts of the

mango tree including the fruit, which is the economically

productive part of the tree. The symptom on the fruit begins

with a black spot, which spreads rapidly. The fruit begins to

rot and subsequently drops pre-maturely. Approximately, 70

percent of the total acreage under mango cultivation in the

Brong-Ahafo Region is affected. Mango FBOs from six

districts, including Wenchi, Techiman, Kintampo North, Kintampo South, Nkoranza, and

An extension officer inspecting a fruit fly trap during a volunteer

assignment on post-harvest handling and packaging in the Eastern Region (Yilo Krobo)


13

Atebubu-Amantin were supported through this targeted training. Each FBO received two days

of intensive training. The first day consisted of classroom training and the second day

consisted of field-based training, allowing the farmers to observe the practical aspects of

combating the disease.

In FY 2017, the project has fielded 13 volunteer experts who have provided direct technical

support to farmers, FBOs, pack house operators, exporters, and extension agents under

component two. This translates to a total of 1,800 persons trained under component two.

Training participants under component two include 1,733 farmers (96.3%) and 67 technical

officers (3.7%). A total of 402 (22.3%) of the persons trained under this component were

women. Out of the total number of persons trained so far, approximately 626 currently apply

recommended good agricultural practices in their farming business, resulting in about 1251

HA of land under improved production technology. Table one below is a summary of the

number of persons trained by focus area.

Table 1: Summary of Volunteer Placements under Component 2

Training Area Number of Volunteers

Conducting Training

Number of Beneficiaries

Trained

Agronomy (Good

Agricultural Practices) 7 956

Organizational

Development 3 171

Record Keeping 1 390

Post-Harvest Handling 1 88

Mango Bacterial Black

Spot Control 1 195

Total 13 1,800

Table I above provides details of the number of beneficiaries for component 2 activities

during the period FY 2017. In FY 2018, IFSSP will refine and improve its training

methodology based on best practices and lessons learned from FY 2017. From this, IFSSP

has put together training modules that form a comprehensive training package for SPS

improvements, particularly for GAP, that will be utilized in FY 2018, and beyond the life of the

project by the project stakeholders. The training modules include: agronomy, record keeping,

postharvest handling, IPM, appropriate pesticide use and handling and organizational

development.


14

2.2.3 STRENGTHEN VALUE CHAIN MARKET LINKAGES

For the private sector to invest in and institute practices that ensure compliance with SPS

standards, there must be a clear linkage between the adoption of such practices and

improved market access. In FY 2017, IFSSP prioritized and was successful in targeting

smallholders already linked to exporters and training these groups in cost effective

approaches to adopt SPS improvement models and GAP protocols.

The IPM assessment also demonstrated that many farmers lacked knowledge of the market

requirements for what they were producing, especially those producing for export to EU

markets. In addition, the farmer associations did not have the adequate capacity to lead and

support their members to adhere to these market requirements. To ensure that farmers and

their leaders have the requisite knowledge to navigate market barriers, IFSSP integrated

information on market requirements into the SPS model improvement training series. The

1,733 farmers trained in FY 2017 were assisted with information that will enable them to

overcome some of these market barriers. In FY 2018, IFSSP will focus more of its targeted

interventions under component on promoting and increasing market linkages along the

mango and chili value chains.

2.3 COMPONENT THREE: COORDINATION ON STRENGTHENING

CERTIFICATION

Under this component, IFSSP sought to work with MoFA and other stakeholders to strengthen

SPS certification systems for agricultural exports. In FY 2017, IFSSP focused heavily on

coordination and, thus, coordination played a major in many of the activities completed under

component one and two of the project. IFSSP channeled its work in coordination through the

MOFA Taskforce and played a major leadership role in preparing for the EU audit.

Additionally, IFSSP convened key stakeholders through a Traceability Development

Committee to ensure strategic coordination and collaboration through the process of

developing the system.

2.3.1 SUPPORT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A CERTIFICATION

COORDINATING COMMITTEE

In FY 2017, IFSSP planned to set up and support a certification coordination committee

consisting of both public and private sector stakeholders within the horticultural sector.

However, because MOFA had already set up the MOFA Taskforce as an entity to organize all

relevant actors around addressing the EU audit, IFSSP changed course and channeled its

coordination efforts into this entity. Due to the focus of its mandate, all activities IFSSP

supported the MOFA Taskforce with were directed toward addressing issues flagged by the

previous EU audit and improving Ghana’s compliance with international SPS standards. This

included working on Ghana’s presentation on traceability to the EU auditors, checking


15

whether the 2016 EU audit recommendations on traceability had been addressed, supporting

PPRSD to complete compliance checks in the field, and providing technical inputs for key

MOFA Taskforce decisions and responses to the EU.

One key area for coordination was in developing and strengthening produce traceability in the

country. IFSSP established a broad-based Traceability Development Committee to provide

strategic direction and technical advice on the way forward for the development, testing, and

final deployment of the traceability system. The committee operates under a rotating chair by

its members. Membership of the committee is drawn from organizations that are already

members of the MOFA Taskforce. These members include PPRSD, GEPA, FDA, GSA, IFSSP,

and the private sector. The inaugural meeting of the committee was held in March 2017 to

inform members of the traceability development process to-date and to agree upon basic

ground rules for how the committee would operate. The committee has since held three

meetings to discuss issues pertinent to the development of the traceability system.

The MOFA Taskforce also delegated the important responsibility to lead on all traceability

related issues pertaining to the September 2016 EU audit to IFSSP. Due to the strong

partnership IFSSP had formed with both PPRSD and GEPA and the fact that they were both

integral members of the project’s Traceability Development Committee, IFSSP was able to

work closely with them through the critical time leading up to the audit. During this time, the

Traceability Development Committee conducted simulation exercises to test PPRSD’s manual

traceability system and make recommendations for its improvement. The exercise

demonstrated the strengths and weakness of the paper-based manual produce traceability

system of PPRSD. The lessons learned from the simulation exercise also continue to inform

the development of the electronic produce traceability system being developed by

GeoTraceability.

2.4 CROSS-CUTTING

ACTIVITIES

2.4.1 GENDER

ASSESSMENT

IFSSP conducted a gender-focused value

chain assessment of the mango and chili

value chains in October 2016. The

purpose of the assessment was to enable

IFSSP to identify key challenges and

opportunities for women along the chili

and mango value chains and to make

recommendations on integrating more

Volunteer expert interviews women mango farmers at Somanya Mango Farm as part of

IFSSP’s gender assessment


16

specific and relevant gender interventions into project activities. The assessment identified

limited access to technical information and training as some of the biggest challenges for

women working along the value chains. For targeting purposes, the assessment also

pinpointed production as the area where most women are engaged along both the mango

and chili value chains. These findings enabled the project to develop specific strategies for

targeting women for training, which included working with host organizations, specifically

FBOs and district-level MOFA entities, to ensure that women would be wholly engaged in

trainings. However, it was challenging at times to engage women through particular training

topics if the training topics were not considered a critical part of the roles on the value chain.

Therefore, in FY 2017, 21.9 percent of persons trained were women. IFSSP recognizes that

this figure is low and is working in FY 2018 to improve this. Specifically, IFSSP will work with

the Directorate of Women in Agricultural Development (WIAD) of MOFA to provide gender

training to key public sector workers, particularly agricultural extension officers and leaders

of farmer-based organizations to increase engagement. Two gender integration volunteers

are expected in FY 2018 to provide this critical training.

2.4.2 ENIVRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

IFSSP also conducted an environmental assessment in January 2017 to analyze all planned

project activities in the context of PERSUAP requirements, as well as identify and prioritize

potential environmental impacts that could result from IFSSP activity implementation. In

addition, the assessment made recommendations for integrating specific environmental and

natural resource management considerations into planning and implementation of project

activities. After the assessment, the volunteer concluded that knowledge on safe use and

handling of pesticides was low among farmers. Farmers also lacked knowledge on modern

integrated pest management practices. The volunteer thus recommended training for farmers

in integrated pest management, safe use and handling of chemicals, and integrated

agroforestry practices. The environmental assessment is yet to be finalized due to the fact

that some of the findings need to be validated early in FY 2018. In the upcoming year, IFSSP

will commence training of farmers on some of the key issues identified by the assessment.

This includes training on integrated pest management and safe use and handling of

pesticides.

2.4.3 COLLABORATION WITH OTHER DONOR-FUNDED PROJECTS

Throughout FY 2017, IFSSP collaborated with other donor-funded projects in the sector

through important activities, especially in preparation for the EU audit in September 2017.

GhanaVeg. In the EU audit conducted in 2016, issues with non-compliance with respect to

ISPM 15 treatment facilities were identified. Therefore, IFSSP worked closely with GhanaVeg,

a project funded by the Netherlands Embassy in Ghana, to support PRRSD to conduct a pre-


17

audit inspection of the ISPM 15 facilities. Specifically, IFSSP provided transportation for the

pre-audit while GhanaVeg advanced PPRSD funds to cover other travel expenses with the

agreement that PPRSD will reimburse GhanaVeg once the funds are obtained from MOFA.

With the support from IFSSP and GhanaVeg, the PPRSD team could travel to 15 treatment

facilities to inspect and verify compliance in the Ashanti, Brong Ahafo, and Western Regions

of Ghana. Overall, IFSSP coordinated quite closely with GhanaVeg through the MOFA

Taskforce.

USAID African Growth Opportunities Act—Ghana Strategic Initiatives. The renewed

African Growth Opportunities Act (AGOA) initiative for Ghana has a focus on horticulture,

fisheries, and other products such as mangoes, chili, cashew, and cocoa products. The AGOA

initiative plans to engage on activities being undertaken by Blue Skies, HPW, and a few other

business groups who are already exporting tropical dry fruit and vegetable products to

markets in the U.S. IFSSP has commenced coordinating closely with USAID through METSS

to engage with the AGOA strategy as well as leverage the potential new market opportunities

to increase private sector engagement in the traceability system development and SPS

improvements along the value chains.

3.0 KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

In FY 2017, IFSSP’s key accomplishments include coordination through the MOFA Taskforce

and support given to government stakeholders, especially ahead of the EU audit in

September 2017, preliminary steps made toward the development and piloting of the

traceability system, number of volunteer assignments completed, technical assistance

delivered, and number of actors trained along the value chains in model SPS improvements.

A key project achievement is its

support to PPRSD and the MOFA

Taskforce that has led to Ghana

potentially qualifying for the lifting

of the EU ban imposed in 2014.

Even though the final report of the

audit team is yet to be released, the

preliminary findings indicate

tremendous progress has been

made in areas such as traceability

development and availability of

equipment for improved inspection,

which were targeted areas of direct

IFSSP intervention. Out of eight

recommendations from the 2016 Volunteer expert conducts an interview with a farmer as

part of the organizational and behavior assessment


18

audit, the 2017 audit preliminary report indicates that Ghana has completely addressed five

recommendations while three have been partially addressed. IFSSP support to PPRSD in the

following areas were critical to these preliminary results: supply of tools to improve

inspection at exit points, technical training for PPRSD inspectors, resources provided to

conduct pre-audit inspection of ISPM 15 facilities across the country, training in and a mock

pre-audit assessment focused on IPPC, and leading the simulation of its electronic

certification system. Additionally, IFSSP’s support to the MOFA Taskforce did contribute

significantly to strengthening of its ability to perform its coordination role, especially leading

in advance of the EU audit. Even though it had a critical mandate to coordinate and galvanize

the efforts of government agencies, private sector players, and donor organizations towards

addressing key SPS, certification, and inspection issues, the MOFA Taskforce had limited

resources at its disposal to carry out this mandate. Therefore, IFSSP made resources able to

the MOFA Taskforce and relevant members to ensure that the mandate could be delivered

upon.

Another major success of IFSSP was the progress made in developing and piloting the

traceability system, which was also noted by EU auditors. In the 2016 audit report, the

auditors recommended that the country should “ensure that a system is in place which

provides for the full traceability of consignments and their lots through all stages of

production, handling, and transport prior to export, and that a system is available to allow

traceability of phytosanitary certificates and the related consignments and their parts as

required by section 4 of ISPM 7.” Therefore, the important progress made so far in

developing a robust, sustainable traceability system was presented to the EU auditors directly

by IFSSP and GeoTraceability. The preliminary audit findings indicate that this

recommendation from 2016 has been met, which signifies that IFSSP has made significant

steps to developing a viable traceability system. The submission of a blueprint for the system

is also a tremendous accomplishment and will support the sound development of a

sustainable traceability system in FY 2018.

The design and introduction of model SPS improvement systems has also been achieved, and

this is an important milestone for the project. IFSSP successfully carried out a planned IPM

assessment and two field validation exercises to identify and confirm SPS challenges along

the mango and chili value chains, and used the results to determine the components of its

model for SPS improvements and training series. This series then produced a cost-effective,

scalable, and sustainable model for SPS improvement.

Along with these achievements, IFSSP has fielded 23 volunteer experts and directly assisted

2,020 persons. The number of persons directly assisted significantly exceeded the target of

1,300 originally set. In FY 2017, the project reached 52,096 beneficiaries (which is reported

as “actual beneficiaries” per the F2F standard indicators). IFSSP has also begun to

demonstrate its impact within this short period. From the project’s impact assessment


19

undertaken in August and September 2017, the following results were obtained: 626 farmers

adhere to good agricultural practices, 27 volunteer recommendations have been adopted and

approximately 1,251 HA of land is under improved production technology. Two existing

services/products of PPRSD have been improved, including PPRSD’s electronic traceability

system and SPS inspection services at the exit points.

4.0 CHALLENGES & DEVIATIONS

Implementation of project activities faced some notable challenges and deviations from

expected results in FY 2017. IFSSP’s strategies for FY 2018 have been impacted and adjusted

accordingly to addressing these challenges.

One major challenge confronting the project is the ability and willingness of small-scale

private sector actors (farmers and exporters) to contribute adequate resources to ensure

compliance with SPS international standards. The project will be addressing this challenge in

two ways. IFSSP will support the MOFA Taskforce to set and enforce minimum requirements

for compliance through the Green Label Certification for products sold to both international

and domestic markets. Additionally, IFSSP will also factor in the issue of affordability as we

work with the companies designing the traceability system.

Through the various assessments undertaken by the project at the onset, it was evident that

farmers were over-reliant on pesticides for pest control. These practices contribute to high

residue levels in fruits and vegetables, which partly contributed to the ban on some

vegetables. Even though IFSSP is spreading awareness on the dangers of these practices

through relevant volunteer assignments and training, the problem seems to be systemic, and

requires other interventions to ensure that the practice is curtailed. Some of these

interventions include a regime of monitoring and sanctions that will compel farmers and input

suppliers to comply with the minimum requirements. IFSSP intends to support PPRSD and

exporters with these interventions as well as coordinate efforts with other donor funded

projects.

Although the project’s scope is broadly to improve access to markets for Ghanaian farmers

and not specifically to lift the EU ban on some vegetables, IFSSP focused much of its efforts

on addressing the EU audit findings from 2016 and supporting the MOFA Taskforce in lifting

the related ban on some vegetable products. IFSSP remained flexible and adjusted its activity

plan to meet the most pressing needs of stakeholders and beneficiaries, which was preparing

for the EU audit. In FY 2018, the project will continue to support these efforts and remain

flexible; however, due to the fact most of the audit’s findings have been addressed with the

support of IFSSP, the project will now be able to also focus its work on other activities and

sustainable interventions and meaningfully engage stakeholders in larger, systemic changes.


20

Despite fielding a significant number of volunteers, IFSSP did not meet its volunteer targets

for FY 2017. Because the volunteer targets were not met, IFSSP also did not meet other

corresponding targets. Additionally, many of the volunteers fielded completed assignments in

the last quarter of FY2018 and, therefore, impact data is not available for these assignments

yet. IFSSP plans to increase the number of volunteers fielded significantly next year to meet

overall LOP targets and to continue to follow-up with host organizations and beneficiaries to

obtain impact data.

Although critical steps have been achieved to develop the traceability system and the

systems has been successfully presented to EU auditors, the system still has yet to be

piloted. This has resulted in a lack of data relevant pertaining to the system’s rollout and

implementation. However, IFSSP now has the system blueprint for the traceability system

and will beginning the pilot phase of the system in early FY 2018. IFSSP looks forward to

sharing the successes of the system in subsequent reports.

5.0 LESSONS LEARNED AND BEST PRACTICES

Engagement of extension officers before, during, and after farm-level trainings.

IFSSP has found that engaging extension officers whenever possible in farm-level training is

very beneficial. Before the training, an extension officer should be identified as the primary

point of contact for trainers and volunteers to support with coordination, preparation, and

logistics. The training plan and materials should also be shared with the extension office

ahead of time so that he or she can familiarize him or herself with the materials and provide

any feedback. During training, extension officers should be brought in as co-facilitators and

translators. They are in the best position to serve as translators for local languages,

environment, and culture. When extension officers act as translators and facilitators, they can

provide critical contextualization of training objectives and make them more applicable to and

actionable for trainees and beneficiaries. Once the extension officers have gone through the

training themselves, they are able to train others as well as follow up on critical

interventions. They act as experts and ambassadors for the trainings and associated

interventions well after the volunteer experts or trainers have departed.

Hands-on, on-site approach to training. In FY 2017, IFSSP utilized a hands-on, practical

approach that greatly supported learning and capacity building. The approach was two-fold:

first, the farmers participate in a classroom-style training where they are exposed to best

practices conceptually, and, second, they are taken through an on-farm training session

where the best practices are clearly demonstrated. This approach proved to be effective and

allowed more farmers to be trained. It also empowered farmers both individually and

collectively to participate more effectively in the processes of agricultural development.

Utilizing local knowledge and expertise. In the past year, both international and local

experts volunteered through IFSSP. Local experts played a key role in providing targeted,


21

timely interventions. For the MBBS prevention and control assignment, IFSSP was having

difficulty recruiting an international expert because it is a niche assignment; however, once

recruitment transitioned more to targeting local experts, IFSSP easily identified the ideal

candidate, a professor from the University of Ghana with expertise in the control and

prevention of the disease. From this experience, IFSSP is now taking a more open approach

to recruitment and will recruit both internationally and locally simultaneously to identify the

most qualified experts. Additionally, IFSSP has found that pairing a local and international

volunteer together to complete an assignment also adds value. This pairing allows for greater

cooperation and knowledge transfer between each volunteer.

6.0 PLANNED ACTIVITIES

The Gantt chart on the following page highlights activities planned for FY 2018.

Annex A USAID Improving Food Safety Systems Project Work Plan - Submitted September 1, 2017

Proposed Activities

Tasks Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

COMPONENT 1: PRODUCE TRACEABILITY SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT

1.1 Public Private Collaboration to Develop a Streamlined Traceability Framework

1.1.01Undertake study and provide recommendations on the appropriate policy and institutional

arrangement for the effective functioning of the traceability system

1.1.02Develop business models that provide for sustainable operations of the IFSSP-led

traceability system through public-private collaboration

1.1.03Work with traceability stakeholders to design an information, education, and

communication (IE&C) strategy for traceability system rollout and use

1.1.04Conduct capcacity building, training, and provide coordination support for development

and rollout of the traceability system

1.1.05 Hold Traceability Forum

1.2 Bring National SPS Systems,including Traceability, into Compliance with International Requirements

1.2.01Conduct stakeholder meetings to review progress on implementing compliance related VE

recommendations

1.2.02Carry out an assessment of improvements/changes in Ghana's SPS compliance system

and make recommendations for further improvement

1.2.03Provide technical support to PPRSD and other stakeholders to address gaps identified and

prioritized under 1.2.02

1.3 Tools and Infrastructure to Implement Traceability Systems

1.3.01 Procure tools for implementing the traceability system

1.3.02Undertake system configuration, testing, user training, and present final report with

recommendations for full traceability system roll out.

1.3.03 Train PPRSD staff and other users in data collection

1.3.04Work with stakeholders to, where necessary, integrate or link existing applicable systems

to the traceability system

COMPONENT 2: VALUE CHAIN SANITARY/PHYTOSANITARY IMPROVEMENT

2.1 Develop and Introduce Model SPS Improvement Systems

2.1.01Refine and improve training tool kit for GAP based on best practices and lessons learned

from FY2017

Year 2 (October 1, 2017 to September 15, 2018)

KEY: Active

Proposed Activities

Tasks Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

Year 2 (October 1, 2017 to September 15, 2018)

2.1.02Provide training to farmer-based organizations in good agricultural practices and

organizational development (OD for FBO leaders)

2.1.03

Provide training to exit point staff based on PPRSD's plan to address capacity gaps in

areas such as inspection, sampling, pest identifcation, knowledge of EU regulations, etc.

2.2 Strengthen Value Chain Market Linkages

2.2.01

Provide training to leaders of FBOs to improve delivery of the following essential

association services: inputs supply, marketing, business development, accessing credit,

financial management, etc.

2.2.02Identify new market opportunities and plans for access for the mango and chili value

chains

2.2.03Organize site visits to certification facilities and laboratories for producers and exporters

COMPONENT 3: COORDINATION ON STRENGTHENING CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS3.1 Support the Establishment of a Certification Coordinating Committee

3.1.01Undertake study and design different coordination models relevant for Ghana's

horticultural sector for presentation to MOFA

3.1.02Support MOFA to implement recommendations based on preferred model from 3.1.01

3.1.03Convene monthly traceability committee meetings

3.2 Facilitate Public-Private Dialogue

3.2.01Work with MOFA Taskforce to institutionalize and hold a bi-annual public-private dialogue

event for discussion on SPS and food safety issues

3.2.02 Hold public-private dialogue events for SPS and food safety issues

4 General/Cross-Cutting Activities

Work with WIAD to provide training to public and private sector stakeholders on gender

mainstreaming in progamming

Program Closeout

Project closeout activities

Support host organizations to prepare post-implementation sustainability plans

Local consultant to conduct an end-of-project beneficiary survey, and conduct a lessons

learned session

Prepare and submit project closeout report


24

7.0 F2F PERFORMANCE AND IMPACT INDICATOR TABLES

The indicator table covering the period is attached as annex A. Annex B provides an update

on IFSSP’s custom indicators.

7.1 M&E CERTIFICATION

IFSSP confirms that we have: a) used established indicators and definitions; b) participated

in regular (annual) workshops reviewing indicators and M&E systems; and c) trained field

staff on indicators and data collection systems. The above mentioned training sessions

include extensive instruction in the collection and reporting of indicators.

8.0 VOLUNTEER SCREENING AND MONITORING

Per GAO recommendation, IFSSP is conducting reference checks on volunteers. This confirms

that IFSSP:

• Does not engage in transactions with, or provide resources or support to, individuals

and organizations associated with terrorism, including those individuals or entities that

appear on the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List maintained by

the U.S. Treasury or the United Nations Security designation list. All potential

volunteers are screened against these and other watch lists and this provision is

included in all sub-agreements, including sub-awards and contracts issued under the

F2F award.

• Carries out at least two reference checks on all potential first time F2F volunteers in

addition to other required screening and carries out reference checks on all repeat F2F

volunteers with regard to prior F2F assignments, and additional external references if

no F2F assignments have been completed within the past 24 months.

• Immediately informs the USAID AOR of any negative F2F volunteer performance or

behavior and provides information on such performance or behavior experiences to

other F2F implementing organizations when contacted for reference checks on

potential volunteers.


25

ANNEX A: INDICATOR TABLE

Please see attached Excel document.

Additionally, please find relevant notes for the indicator table below:

• IFSSP began fielding volunteers for farmer-level training in January 2017. Between

then and September 2017, 13 volunteers were fielded. However, seven host

organizations hosted their first assignments in August and September 2017. Because

of this, there has not been adequate time for these host organizations to implement

volunteer recommendations, as well as the production technologies that were

introduced to them. Therefore, the project is continuing to report baseline data for

some of the fields in table 3 for those organizations for FY 2017. Follow-up to obtain

impact data from these organizations will occur in FY 2018.

• Upon conducting a thorough review of volunteer assignment dates since the

submission of the semi-annual report, it was noted that Ernest Kraka’s assignment

days were 15 and not the previously reported 16. Therefore, the number of

assignment days has been updated to reflect 15 days.

• Edward Uechi's assignment ended before the originally agreed upon dates. He

accomplished much during his time in Ghana and addressed many of the objectives of

his assignment, which is detailed in his final report. Given his assignment, to support

PPRSD to integrate traceability into their function and oversight, his recommendations

were directed towards the system and environment as a whole, including PPRSD but

also the IFSSP project and other stakeholders. These recommendations have been

noted and acted upon. The volunteer's recommendations, however, were not particular

to the host organization, PPRSD, and, therefore, will not be monitored and reported

through the standard indicators.

ANNEX B: IFSSP CUSTOM INDICATORS

Please see attached Excel document

ANNEX C: VOLUNTEER ASSIGNMENTS

During FY 2017, 23 volunteer assignments were completed. A summary of the assignments is

provided below.

1. Value Chains Assessment

Volunteer: Raymond Hix, Florida, USA

Assignment Code Number: G-03

Dates: 09/25 – 10/09/2016

A volunteer expert, Dr. Raymond Hix, conducted an integrated pest management-focused

value chain assessment for the mango and chili value chains. The assessment enabled IFSSP


26

to identify critical constraints and concerns leading to SPS problems along the value chain

with a focus on IPM. The assessment concluded that a clear value chain is present; however,

resources are a limiting constraint for many smaller farmers who often serve as out-growers

for the larger producers, packers, and exporters. The assessment also found that pest

identification and knowledge of pest biology seemed limited, and thus the volunteer

recommended training in good agricultural practices, integrated pest management, and

taxonomy for farmers and other value chain actors. The volunteer also recommended training

in record keeping for farmers and organizational strengthening for farmer-based

organizations.

2. Gender Assessment

Volunteer: Joanne Wedum, Colorado, USA


Dates: 10/22 – 11/12/2016

Ms. Joanne Wedum conducted a gender-focused value chain assessment of the mango and

chili value chains. The purpose of the assessment was to enable IFSSP identify key

challenges and opportunities along the chili and mango value chains that either challenge or

enhance the economic activities of women and to make recommendations for integrating

more specific and relevant gender dimensions into project activities. The assessment

identified limited access to technical information and training as some of the biggest

challenges for women working along the value chains. The assessment also pinpointed

production as the area where most women are engaged along both the mango and chili value

chains. These findings enabled the project to develop specific strategies for targeting women

for training.

3. Agronomist

Volunteer: Onokpise Oghenekome,

Florida, USA


Dates: 01/21 – 02/04/2017

The agronomist volunteer supported in

increasing the skills and knowledge of

farmers through training in recommended

agricultural best practices to improve

produce quality to meet market

requirements. Through his assignment, 172

persons at Tuba in the Ga South

Municipality of the Greater Accra region Volunteer expert demonstrates soil testing

during a training session in the Central Region


27

were trained. The farmers trained were members of the Weija Irrigation Water Users

Association.

4. Environmental Assessment

Volunteer: Ernest Kraka, Illinois, USA


Dates: 01/21 – 02/04/2017

The purpose of the assignment was to analyze all planned IFSSP activities in the context of

PERSUAP requirements, identify and prioritize potential environmental impacts that could

result from IFSSP activities implementation, and to make recommendations for the

integration of specific environmental and natural resource management considerations into

the planning and implementation of project activities. The assignment included field visits to

vegetable and mango producing areas in Begoro, Somanya, and Weija/Tuba. The volunteer

also had meetings with the Environmental Protection Agency and some directorates of MOFA

(both at national and district levels). The volunteer made proposals for IFSSP to consider IPM

and safe use and handling of chemicals as potential areas for training

5. Record Keeping Extension

Volunteer: LaTonia Tresia Lee, Florida, USA


Dates: 02/25 – 03/11/2017

Ms. LaTonia Tresia Lee provided training to selected farmers in good record keeping systems

and small business practices. During the training, Ms. Lee led participants through templates

designed to collect farm-level information such as inventory records, production records,

daily and input log, expenditure and income records, as well as special or supplementary

records. 375 farmers and 15 extension agents in three districts (Ga South, Agona East, and

Gomoa East) were trained. The host of the assignment was the Directorate of Agriculture

Extension Services of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

6. Market Sustainability Plan

Volunteer: Mark Condon, Virginia, USA


Dates: 03/11 – 04/01/2017

The purpose of the assignment was to liaise with public and private sector stakeholders to

draft a market sustainability plan in support of IFSSP’s traceability system and support the

project to identify necessary incentives and buy-in measures required for the private sector

that will ensure market sustainability of the traceability system. At the end of the

assignment, the volunteer made a proposal for the project to use the concept of accreditation


28

as a strategy for gaining private sector interest in participating in the traceability system. The

strategy framework is detailed in his final report, which also outlines the design of the

proposed accreditation program, which will continues to be shared as an example strategy

and potential approach.

7. Food Safety Standards Integration and Training

Volunteer: Monipel Owusua Ansong, New York, USA


Dates: 03/21 – 04/03/2017

The food safety standards integration and training volunteer expert, Ms. Monipel Owusua

Ansong, worked with IFSSP stakeholders to integrate applicable standards into technical

project design and upcoming SPS trainings, and supported the development of training

methodology for SPS training. During her final presentation to the IFSSP team, Ms. Ansong

identified applicable international SPS standards and codes of procedures and proposed

integration of these standards through preexisting project and stakeholder activities. She also

developed a standards integration framework for the project, which will guide standards

integration into the training series of the project.

8. Long-term Organizational Development and Produce Traceability

Volunteer: Edward Uechi, Maryland, USA


Dates: 02/18 – 04/12/2017

The purpose of this assignment was to oversee the development of the nationwide produce

traceability system that encompasses a computer system, standard operating procedures,

business processes, relevant standards, and applicable regulations that would be tested,

piloted, and implemented to promote export trade in horticultural produce. Mr. Uechi

consulted and liaised with public and private sector stakeholders to evaluate the potential

system. He also created business process diagrams and a farm product assurance audit

checklist to automatically score the compliance level for PPRSD. In addition, he carried out a

second evaluation of PPRD’s certification system (PPRSDNet) to ascertain its suitability for

use as a traceability system. These efforts were designed to support activities of the Plant

Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD) of the Ministry of Food and

Agriculture and the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of Ghana.

9. Agronomy - Agona East

Volunteer: Christopher D’Aiuto, Cape Town, South Africa


Dates: 04/01 – 04/16/2017

Mr. Christopher D’Aiuto trained vegetable farmers in recommended agricultural best

practices. Overall, 253 persons were trained, comprising 213 males and 40 females. The


29

training topics included site selection and land

preparation, soil fertility and nutrient

management, water resources and irrigation

practices, seedlings production, hygiene in the

field, assessment of produce maturity, and

harvesting. The volunteer recommended further

training in pest management for the farmers. The

beneficiary farmers were drawn from vegetable

producing farmer-based organizations from three

communities in the Agona East District,

specifically Agona Nsaba, Kenyanko, and Agona

Asafo.

10. Taxonomic Specialist - Chili

Volunteer: Emily Zobel, Maryland, USA


Dates: 05/06 – 05/21/2017

At the request of PPRSD, IFSSP fielded volunteer

expert, Ms. Emily Zobel, who works as a faculty

extension assistant with the University of

Maryland Extension, to equip produce inspectors

and extension agents with the knowledge and skills required for effective identification and

inspection of insect pests and diseases. Overall, 80 individuals were trained during her

assignment. Ms. Zobel recommended further training on pesticide safety and regulations for

both farmer and extension agents as well as for pesticide dealers.

11. Agronomy – Vegpro 1

Volunteer: Bravo Brown, Florida, USA


Dates: 05/13 – 05/27/2017

As part of the project’s agronomy training series, volunteer expert, Dr. Bravo Brown, a

private farmer from Florida, was fielded to work with Vegpro Ghana Limited. Through his

training, 77 farmers were trained. The outcome of this training was to build the capacity of

vegetable farmers in recommended agricultural best practices to improve produce quality for

export. The direct beneficiaries of the assignment were members of the Torgome Area

Cooperative Farmers Union, an export-focused vegetable producing association.

12. International Plant Protection Convention Standards

Volunteer: Ernst Neering, Wageningen, Holland


Dates: 05/13 – 05/28/2017

Volunteer expert demonstrates good agricultural practices during an on-farm training with farmers in the Agona East

District


30

Mr. Ernst Neering, worked with PPRSD to comply with ISPM developed by the IPPC that are

directly relevant to lifting the EU vegetable ban on Ghana. Among other things, he assessed

PPRSD’s procedures at the inspection points, particularly at the Kotoka International Airport.

13. Agronomy - Vegpro 2

Volunteer: Desmond Mortley, Georgia, USA


Dates: 05/27 – 06/10/2017

The fourth agronomy training under the SPS training series was hosted by Vegpro Group

Ghana Ltd, and farmers of the Torgome Area Cooperative Farmers Union were the direct

beneficiaries. The focus of this training was on building the capacity of vegetable farmers in

recommended agricultural best practices to improve produce quality for export. Three groups

of farmers were provided with two days of training by Dr. Desmond Mortley, an agronomist

and a university professor at Tuskegee University in the United States. Training on the first

day for each group was in a classroom setting, training on the second day was field-based.

Using model farms, the volunteer demonstrated best practices from land preparation to post-

harvest handling. The volunteer also used the opportunity to take farmers through

procedures for soil testing. The volunteer recommends further training in IPM, specifically to

avoid over spraying and to encourage trapping. Through this training, 114 vegetable farmers,

54 men (47%) and 60 women (53%), were assisted.

14. Pre-Audit Assessment Support

Volunteer: Ernst Neering, Wageningen, Holland


Dates: 7/13 – 07/27/2017

Mr. Ernst Neering conducted a full audit in preparation for the scheduled September 2017 EU

audit. The volunteer worked closely with PPRSD, MOFA Taskforce, and other relevant

stakeholders to evaluate the status of work completed so far and assess the country’s

preparedness for the upcoming EU audit visit. The volunteer also served to ensure that

international standards for phytosanitary measures on fruit and vegetable export trade were

being applied in a sustainable manner to avoid the continuation of the EU ban. At the end of

his assignment and audit, the volunteer expert noted that good progress has been achieved

in improving the functionality of the MOFA Taskforce and identified some areas that would

need more focus and assistance. Fifteen persons were directly assisted by the volunteer

during his assignment.

15. Agronomy - Gomoa East

Volunteer: Festus Imarhiagbe, Vienna, Austria


Dates: 08/12 – 08/27/2017


31

Dr. Festus Imarhiagbe provided training on good agricultural practices under the project’s

SPS training series. The assignment was hosted by the Gomoa East District Directorate of

Agriculture. The focus of this training was on building the capacity of vegetable farmers in

recommended agricultural best practices to improve produce quality for export. Three groups

of farmers were provided with two days of training each. Overall, 112 persons, including

farmers and extension officers were trained by the volunteer. Thirty of the training

participants were females. Members of the Eastern Gomoa Vegetable Growers Association

were the direct beneficiaries of the intervention. The volunteer recommends further training

in IPM for farmers who were observed spraying chemicals without regard to the absence or

presence of the targeted pests.

16. Entomologist Training VE

Volunteer: Maxwell Billah, Accra, Ghana


Dates: 08/14 – 08/28/2017

Local volunteer expert, Dr. Maxwell Billah, provided training to 40 PPRSD SPS inspectors on

the knowledge and skills required for effective use, handling, and maintenance of SPS

inspection equipment for efficient insect pest and disease identification and control. This is

expected to greatly enhance the lifespan of the tools and build PPRSD’s capacity to deliver

subsequent trainings to other key technical staff.

17. Agronomy - Kwahu East

Volunteer: Dennis Eaton, New Hampshire, USA


Dates: 08/14 – 08/28/2017

In the Kwahu East District, Dr. Dennis Eaton, a farmer and university professor from New

Hampshire, provided training to 100 members of three farmer-based organizations in the

Kwahu East District of the Eastern Region. The assignment was hosted by the Kwahu East

District Directorate of Agriculture. The farmers were selected from the following vegetable

producing communities: Abetifi, Nteso, Tafo, Ankomah, Oframase, Tarkwa, Papease,

Hweehwee, and Yaw Tenkorang. The volunteer recommended further training in IPM.

18. Agronomy - Fanteakwa

Volunteer: Ivan Landers, Washington, USA


Dates: 8/25 – 09/10/2017

Mr. Ivan Landers conducted IFSSP’s seventh agronomy assignment. A total of 126 vegetable

producers in the Fanteakwa District attended training on modern methods for cultivating chili

pepper for export. The training was provided by Mr. Ivan Landers, an agronomist from the


32

U.S. He worked with farmers from Begoro, Dedeso, and Amokrom. Vegetable producers in

these communities provide products to exporters. The training topics included the importance

of good agricultural practices, site selection, land preparation, soil fertility management,

irrigation practices, seedling production, hygiene in the field, and assessment of produce

maturity. The assignment was hosted by the Fanteakwa District Department of Agriculture.

19. Organizational Development

Volunteer: Henry Lutterodt, North Carolina, USA


Dates: 08/23 – 09/09/2017

Henry Lutterodt provided training to 62 FBO leaders from the Kwahu East, Kwahu South, and

Fanteakwa Districts of the Eastern Region. The training focused on organizational

development. Specific topics covered included organizational dynamics, group formation,

entrepreneurship, and group cohesion. A critical aspect of IFSSP’s mandate is working with

FBOs to build their capacity so that they can in turn provide market-based services to their

members and ensure that farmers are better able to adopt technical recommendations.

20. Mango Bacterial Black Spot Control Specialist

Volunteer: Dr. Joseph Okani Honger, Accra, Ghana


Dates: 8/25 – 09/13/2017

Dr. Joseph Okani Honger trained 195 mango farmers in the Brong-Ahafo Region on effective

strategies for combating the mango bacterial black spot disease. The mango bacterial black

spot disease affects all parts of the mango tree including the fruit, which is the economically

productive part of the tree. Mango producers from six districts including Wenchi, Techiman,

Kintampo North, Kintampo South, Nkoranza, and Atebubu-Amantin participated in the

trainings. Each FBO received two days of training. The first day consisted of classroom

training and the second day was field-based training allowing the farmers to observe the

practical aspects of combating the disease. The training was provided by Dr. Joseph Honger,

an entomologist with the University of Ghana. The volunteer recommends encouraging

farmers to practice IPM in their fields, which will lead to decreased MBBS.

21. Post-Harvest Handling and Packaging

Volunteer: Paa Kwesi Bordoh, Koforidua, Ghana


Dates: 08/31 – 09/15/2017]

Mr. Paa Kwesi Bordoh provided training to 88 mango value chain actors, including mango

farmers, farm workers, pack house operators, and exporters. The training focused on

postharvest handling and pack house operations. The training was provided by Mr. Paa Kwesi


33

Bordoh, an agriculturalist and lecturer at the All Nations University in Koforidua. The main

purpose of the training was to equip mango producers and agricultural extension officers with

knowledge and skills required for efficient postharvest handling and packaging of mangoes.

The training exercise included field visits to observe farmer practices in post-harvest

handling, and the design and delivery of training based on field observations. The beneficiary

FBOs included Yilo Krobo Mango Producers Association and Lower and Upper Manya Mango

Producers Association.

22. Organizational Development Training and Behavior Assessment

Volunteer: Molly Reddy, Maryland, USA


Dates: 09/16 – 09/30/2017

Ms. Molly Reddy conducted an organizational and behavior assessment with FBOs in the

North Tongu and Yilo Krobo Districts. In the North Tongu District, members of the Torgome

Area Cooperative Farmers Union (TACFU) were supported. This cooperative is made up of 15

FBOs, and 34 individuals from the cooperative participated in the exercise. In Yilo Krobo, 12

members of the Yilo Krobo Mango Producers Association participated in the exercise. The

assignment was carried out by Ms. Molly Reddy, a human centered-design expert, based in

Baltimore, USA. The purpose of the assignment was to use human-centered design research

methodology to probe, assess, and evaluate behaviors of FBOs and translate that information

into meaningful recommendations to enhance organizational capacity and management of

FBOs.

23. Organizational Development

Volunteer: Christian Chileshe, Lusaka, Zambia


Dates: 09/16 – 09/30/2017

Mr. Christian Chileshe provided organizational development support to export-oriented FBOs

in two districts, Awutu Senya East and Gomoa East, in the Central Region. Twenty-four

leaders from five community-level FBOs participated in the training in Awutu Senya. In

Gomoa East, 29 FBO leaders from eight community-level FBOs were trained. In total, the

volunteer assisted 63 individuals, including ten district agricultural extension officers. Using

interactive and participatory approaches, the facilitator provided training on topics such as

group formation, group dynamics, entrepreneurship, business planning in agriculture, and

agriculture value chains. The purpose of the assignment was to build the organizational

capacity of FBOs implementing GAP and SPS improvements under the project and make

recommendations that will lead to improved organizational ability to disseminate information

on GAP and increase adoption of GAP among member farmers.


34

ANNEX D: PERSUAP REPORTING

PERSUAP IMPLEMENTATION EXPERIENCE – F2F ASSIGNMENTS:

Over the period covered by this report, the project has had experience in implementing the

F2F PERSUAP, as reflected in the PERSUAP table below. All assignments not listed in this

table are Type 3 assignments or Type 4 assignments that fall within the Type 3 category.

This table lists all Type 1, 2, and relevant Type 4 volunteer SOWs that have been completed

or initiated during the reporting period. Several volunteers noted that IPM training is needed.

The project has noted this and is planning for it in the upcoming period. Summaries of

volunteer assignments with a general description of activities with pesticides, key findings

and recommendations on limitations/successes of F2F PERSUAP, and any recommendations

to F2F for additional support needed to improve pest and pesticide management practices

can be found in annex C summarizing volunteer assignments.


35

PERSUAP Reporting Table

Assignment

(Trip)

Number

Volunteer

Name

Count

ry

Country

F2F

Project

PERSUAP

Assignment

Type

Work

Directly

with USAID

Mission or

Mission-

funded

Project

(Type 4) –

Check for

Yes

Training

Syllabus

Sent to F2F

AOR/

Mission

Environme

ntal Officer

(Type 1) –

Check for

Yes

Training

Attended

by

USAID

(Type 1)

– Check

for Yes

G03 Raymond

Hix

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-05 Oghenekom

e Onokpise

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-06 Ernest

Kwaku

Krakah

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-07 LaTonia

Tresia Lee

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-12 Christopher

D'Aiuto

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-09 Emily Zobel Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-14 Bravo

Brown

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-17 Ernst

Neering

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-15 Desmond

Mortley

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-21 Festus

Imarhiagbe

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-27 Maxwell

Billah

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-13 Dennis

Eaton

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-25 Ivan

Landers

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

G-16 Joseph

Okani

Honger

Ghana IFSSP Type 1 Yes

G-22 Paa Kwesi

Bordoh

Ghana IFSSP Type 2

Counts: 15 15 15 15 0 1 0


36

Regional program, country program, or country project area assignments or SOWs

in IPM and pesticide safer use: The following volunteer SOWs in IPM and pesticide safer

use were undertaken for the F2F regional program, country program, or country project area

as a whole. These differ from the individual assignments addressing pesticide use with

specific hosts, which should be included in the table above.

(None)

Needs for a PERSUAP amendment: The following needs for a PERSUAP amendment to add

pesticides were identified during the reporting period.

(None)

CERTIFICATIONS OF ASSIGNMENT AND OFFICE COMPLIANCE WITH PERSUAP

GUIDELINES:

A. PERSUAP Compliance – F2F Assignments

This certifies that all volunteers have received the F2F Environmental Brochure. For all

PERSUAP type 1, 2, and relevant type 4 SOWs, and further certifies the following have been

provided to and developed by the relevant volunteers:

Type 1 SOWs Type 2 SOWs

Provided to

Volunteer

· F2F PERSUAP with Attachments A – H

· SUAP briefing with F2F field staff

· Implementing Partner F2F PERSUAP

Questionnaire

· List of any IPM practices and any tools, forms,

protocols, plans from previous volunteers

· Host country list of approved pesticides

· Approved pesticide list from any other

applicable PERSUAPs

· F2F PERSUAP with

Attachments B, C, F, H

· SUAP briefing with F2F field

staff

· Implementing Partner F2F

PERSUAP Questionnaire

· List of IPM practices from

previous volunteers

Developed/

Provided

by

Volunteer

· Syllabus for training event

· Material Safety Data Sheets (filed in field

office)

· Any pesticides that the F2F program should

be able to recommend/use which are included

on an approved list

· Limitations/successes of F2F PERSUAP

· Recommendations for additional support on

pesticide management practices

· Limitations/successes of F2F

PERSUAP

· Recommendations for

additional support on

pesticide management

practices

· Recommendations/feedback

on local IPM practices


37

Type 1 SOWs Type 2 SOWs

· Recommendations/feedback on local IPM

practices

· Highly Toxic Pesticides (Attachment E)/poor

pesticide practices witnessed

· Tools, forms, protocols, plans for

implementation of pesticide-related

recommendations


38

B. PERSUAP Compliance – F2F Offices

This certifies that all F2F staff have reviewed the F2F Environmental Brochure for staff the fiscal

year and that the following have been updated and kept on file:

Home Office Field Office

Documents

Updated

and on File

· F2F Environmental

Brochure for staff

· PERSUAP with

Attachments A-I

· Any USAID Mission-

or sector-wide

PERSUAP(s) for

relevant

country/sector

· F2F Environmental Brochure for staff

· PERSUAP with Attachments A-I

· USAID Mission- or sector-wide PERSUAP(s) for

relevant country/sector

· Host country list of approved pesticides3

· Implementing partner F2F PERSUAP Questionnaire,

with any volunteer additions

· Material Safety Data Sheets for relevant pesticides4

· Tools, forms, protocols, plans developed by

volunteers

ANNEX E: SUCCESS STORIES

Please find four success stories attached.

IMPROVING FOOD SAFETY SYSTEMS PROJECT TRAINS 170 FARMERS ON GOOD

AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES

Madam Elizabeth Zutali, a 41-year-old vegetable farmer, was

struggling to increase the productivity o

f her small farm in Tuba, Weija in the Ga South Municipality in

Accra, Ghana. Although agriculture is part of her family’s

livelihood and history, Madam Zutali had little knowledge on

how to improve her vegetable crop yields. She took a loan

from the bank last year to try farming chili, but the crops died

off before harvesting, which cost her a lot financially. Ms.

Zutali decided not to farm chili again.

However, after attending a two-day on-farm training

delivered by the Improving Food Safety Systems Project

(IFSSP) in February 2017, Madam Zutali changed her mind

and decided to pursue vegetable farming once again. “Now I

know the importance of soil testing and how it’s done, this amongst other training I have

received today has brought back confidence to return to chili farming again,” said Madam

Zutali.

In February 2017, 170 vegetable farmers participated in a hands-on and interactive training

on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). The purpose of this training was to improve farmers’

knowledge of and ability to use agricultural best practices to ensure their produce can meet

safety standards and market requirements.

“The farmers were a little skeptical in the beginning about the training and wary of taking

chances on new technologies,” said Oghenekome Onokpise, a volunteer from Florida

Agriculture and Mechanical University who led the training. A professor of agronomy,

Onokpise, said the farmers became much more enthusiastic and engaged once they started

practicing the techniques themselves. He believes this kind of training can go a long way to

improve vegetable production in the country.

The participants were proud and confident in vegetable farming following the training. Ms.

Zutali and her husband, Mr. Tetteh Oman, are working together to apply the knowledge she

acquired during the training. On their 1.5-acre plot in Tuba, the pair are currently producing

Madam Zutali, a vegetable

farmer and member of

Weija Irrigation Water

Users Association.

chilies, tomatoes, and okra. They are very hopeful that the new production methods they

apply will lead to improved yield and increased profits.

“I am convinced that farming chili is profitable if I apply all the information I have learned

from this training,” Ms. Zutali cheerfully stated after the training.

The Improving Food Safety System Project (IFSSP) is Farmer-to-Farmer Program funded by

USAID and awarded through Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance (VEGA). IESC

(International Executive Service Corps) is implementing this project in partnership with

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). IFSSP is providing market-based

solutions to generate buy-in for adherence to sanitation and phyto-sanitation (SPS)

standards and participation in a traceability system. The project will also strengthen the SPS

compliance system for Ghanaian fruits and vegetables and facilitate collaboration between

the public and private sector for active growth in productivity and export trade.

“USAID is the lead U.S. Government agency working to end extreme global poverty and

enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential.”

“The John Ogonowski and Doug Bereuter Farmer-to-Farmer Program (F2F) provides technical

assistance from U.S. volunteers to farmers, farm groups, agribusinesses and other

agriculture sector institutions in developing and transitional countries with the goal of

promoting sustainable improvements in food security and agricultural processing, production

and marketing.”

Oghenekome Onokpise from FAMU training farmers

on the best method for seedling transplant.

IFSSP DELIVERS TOOLS AND TRAINING TO IMPROVE EXPORT INSPECTIONS

In December 2016, Ghana was notified that the ban on the

export of some vegetables to the EU would not be lifted. The EU

auditors found that Ghana had not made the necessary progress

to address food safety compliance issues when they visited in

September 2016. One of the critical issues raised by the EU

auditors was the inability of inspectors to identify harmful

organisms in produce before it was shipped.

The Improving Food Safety Systems Project (IFSSP), funded by

USAID and implemented by International Executive Service

Corps, was able to support Ghana to address this issue. IFSSP

worked with the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services

Department (PPRSD) of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to

identify and supply the equipment needed to address this gap. Previously, PPRSD had been

lacking the necessary tools to properly inspect produce prior to export. This caused PPRSD to

also be unable to ensure compliance with international food safety standards and certify

whether or not fruits and vegetables were safe for export.

To ensure the new equipment was utilized effectively and that PPRSD could certify produce,

IFSSP fielded three technical experts to train PPRSD inspectors. Ms. Emily Zobel trained

PPRSD inspectors and extension agents on identification and inspection of insect pests and

diseases related to chili peppers as well as the applicable international standards for

inspection. Mr. Ernst Neering trained PPRSD staff on complying with International Standards

for Phytosanitary Measurements, developed under the International Plant Protection

Convention. Dr. Maxwell Billah also trained PPRSD inspectors at key exit points on how to

effectively utilize the tools supplied by the project. All of these technical experts contributed

to building PPRSD’s capacity to comply with international food safety standards for export.

The initial findings of the most recent EU audit in September 2017 found that inspectors have

good knowledge of harmful organisms of concern to the EU and can generally be considered

technically competent. This is part thanks to the training provided by IFSSP volunteer

experts.

Produce inspector at

Kotoka International

Airport inspection facility

Mr. Samuel Nana Okyere, a sanitary inspection officer at the Kotoka International Airport

(KIA) is tasked with inspecting produce for export in the newly equipped inspection facility at

KIA. “We now have new and standard tools to make our work more effective and to give

appropriate recommendations to exporters from our reports. This will largely impact the

quality assurance of produce for exports,” said Mr. Nana Okyere. “Now we are confident in

our observations, recording, and recommendations to exporters after inspection.”

USAID is the lead U.S. Government agency working to end extreme global poverty and

enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential.

The John Ogonowski and Doug Bereuter Farmer-to-Farmer Program (F2F) provides technical




and marketing.

VOLUNTEER EXPERT PREPS GHANA’S FOOD SAFETY SYSTEM FOR EU AUDIT

Thanks in part to help from Farmer-to-Farmer volunteers, the Ghanaian government’s Plant

Protection and Regulatory Services (PPRSD) demonstrated

substantial progress made on addressing safety and quality issues

during a recent EU inspection. This inspection is part of a larger

audit conducted to determine if a ban can be lifted and Ghana can

once again export vegetables to the EU.

To support PPRSD in preparing for the audit, the Improving Food

Safety Systems Project (IFSSP) in Ghana, funded by USAID and

implemented by International Executive Service Corps (IESC),

fielded a volunteer expert, Ernst Neering, to work with PPRSD to

prepare the department for the September audit. During his July

2017 assignment, he played devil’s advocate, pretending to be an

EU auditor and then providing recommendations that would help

PPRSD demonstrate that Ghana has the systems and procedures in place to once again

export vegetables to the EU. Neering has extensive experience working in plant health and

inspections, including a previous trip to Ghana in early 2017.

“When I saw the vacancy for a volunteer, I thought, this is something I can do. If I can be

paid, great, but if I’m a volunteer, it’s also fine, because for me, it’s about being in the field

with farmers, doing the work,” Neering said of his interest in volunteering.

Neering left PPRSD with a list of recommendations to implement prior to the EU auditor visit

in September. “It’s good having different volunteers coming in because they have different

perspectives,” said William Lamptey, who works for PPRSD. “The volunteers so far have put

in their best.”

The EU auditors conducted their visit in September and presented initial findings to PPRSD

and stakeholders. Of the recommendations Neering made during his assignment, the EU

auditors deemed these areas for improvement as “adequate” or “addressed.” This includes

having adequate inspection facilities and equipment available and that inspectors have a

good working knowledge of harmful organisms and can be considered technically competent.

The initial findings of the audit show positive improvements, in part due to the hard work of

IFSSP and its volunteer experts.

Ernst Neering conducting an inspection at PPRSD







and marketing.

This story was originally developed by VEGA. Used with permission.

TRAINING FOR FARMERS TO BRING QUALITY CHILI TO THE MARKET AND RAISE

STANDARDS OF LIVING

Ghana produces one of the most nutrient-rich produce available in

the world: the chili pepper. Despite the demand for this product,

both at home and abroad, Ghana has been unable to fully benefit

from the production of the chili pepper due to concerns with the

safety and quality of the crop.

The Improving Food Safety Systems Project, funded by USAID and

implemented by IESC, in Ghana aims to improve access to

international markets for Ghana’s horticultural farmers as well as

build capacity along the supply chain to improve quality and safety

standards. The project works with farmers, farmer-based organizations, exporters, and

regulatory institutions in the country.

In Torgome, a farming community in the Volta Region of Ghana, IFSSP has worked to

improve farmers’ agricultural practices as well as to build the capacity of the farmer-based

organization that provides critical services to these farmers. The project has trained 215

farmers in this community on improved production techniques.

Ben Blebu, a 47-year-old maize and vegetable farmer and father of four children, received

training in good agricultural practices through the project. After adopting the methods shared

in the IFSSP training, the life of his family has been transformed due to increased revenue

from his chili harvest.

“I sell the chili and other vegetables to raise household income,” remarked Mr. Blebu. “I

used the money made from chili sales to purchase an additional two acres of farmland,

renovate my house, and pay my children’s school fees, with the oldest completing university

recently. The production and selling of the chili is an integral part of my success and that

cannot be told without mentioning the training I received from the USAID-IFSSP project,

especially the training on good agricultural practices focusing on chili production.”

Mr. Blebu is one of 1,733 farmers across the country trained by IFSSP. Volunteer experts will

continue to train the farmers throughout the life of the project.

Ben Blebu on his chili

farm in Torgome







and marketing.


47

ANNEX F: VOLUNTEER TRIP REPORTS

Please find 23 volunteer trip reports attached.