On May 27 2019, the 9th edition of the Cashew Master Training Programme (MTP) was opened.
The MTP seeks to build a network of highly trained cashew expertise on the African continent. The ninth edition comprises about 85 participants from 12 African countries.
The programme is organized by GIZ under the the ComCashew Initiative with co-financing from Switzerland.
The programme partners with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), the African Cashew Alliance (ACA) and the Cocoa Research Institute (CRIG).
The opening ceremony was well attended with representatives from the MoFA, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Deevlopment (MLGRD), the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI), ACA and the Association of Cashew Processors Ghana (ACPG).
The aim of the MTP is to increase theoretical knowledge and enhance practical skills of cashew experts and consequently, promote the competitiveness of the African cashew sector. This first session will cover the cashew value chain concept, the dynamics of the cashew market and the development of training materials. The highlight will be a field visit to the largest cashew processing factory in the sub region, USIBRAS, in Prampram. All sessions cover cross-cutting issues such as gender, policy development, sector regulations and the nutritional value of cashew products.
In his address, Mr. Daniel Lauchenauer, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Switzerland in Ghana, emphasized Switzerland’s interest in contributing to the competitiveness of the Ghanaian cashew sector towards increasing the diversification of Ghana’s economy which is crucial for achieving the vision of a Ghana beyond Aid. The MTP is an area of pride for Switzerland, as it provides a much-needed platform that brings together actors from across Africa to dialogue and form fruitful alliances to help Africa’s cashew sector to progress.
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