Ghana’s Evans Kyere-Mensah nominated to World Agriculture Forum Council – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefDecember 28, 20254 Mins read30
Evans Kyere-Mensah Joins World Agriculture Forum Council: A Win for Ghanaian Agribusiness
Introduction
In a significant development for the global agricultural sector, Ghanaian agribusiness expert Evans Kyere-Mensah has been nominated to the Council of the World Agriculture Forum (WAF). This appointment, formalized in early December 2025, signals a strategic shift in global agricultural governance, aiming to incorporate diverse perspectives from emerging markets. The nomination highlights Ghana’s growing influence in international agribusiness and policy-making, particularly as the world grapples with food security and climate resilience.
Key Points
- Nomination Date: The official nomination was confirmed on December 3, 2025.
- Appointing Authority: The nomination was communicated by Michelle Dennis, Director of Communications for the World Agriculture Forum, following a recommendation by Dr. MJ Khan, Special Advisor to the WAF Board.
- Strategic Role: As a Council member, Kyere-Mensah will contribute to shaping international policy discussions and strategic business development for agriculture.
- Organizational Structure: The WAF Council is a key governance body, with one-third of the Forum’s Board members drawn from this Council to ensure a diverse and representative leadership structure.
- Global Context: The WAF is positioning itself as an “agricultural World Economic Forum,” focusing on trade, sustainable farming, and policy harmonization to combat climate change and food insecurity.
- Location: The World Agriculture Forum is headquartered in the Netherlands.
Background
Who is Evans Kyere-Mensah?
Evans Kyere-Mensah is a distinguished Ghanaian agriculture professional with a robust background in agribusiness and food systems. While specific biographical details vary by source, his professional reputation is built on expertise in the multinational food and agriculture sector. His nomination is viewed as a recognition of his leadership capabilities and technical knowledge, which are deemed critical for the WAF’s mission. This appointment places him alongside global industry leaders, providing a platform to advocate for the specific needs and opportunities within African agriculture.
The World Agriculture Forum (WAF)
The World Agriculture Forum is an emerging international organization established to serve as a cross-border platform for the agricultural community. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the WAF’s structure is modeled after the World Economic Forum. Its primary mission is to advance agricultural development, food and nutrition security, and sustainable farming practices. The Forum aims to bridge the gap between policymakers, innovators, corporate leaders, and international institutions to foster cooperation and drive economic growth in the agricultural sector.
Analysis
Implications for Ghana and Africa
The nomination of Evans Kyere-Mensah is more than a personal achievement; it is a strategic victory for Ghana’s agricultural diplomacy. As Ghana continues to prioritize food security, agribusiness development, and climate-smart agriculture, having a voice at the WAF Council ensures that local challenges and innovations are represented in global discussions. This aligns with broader African goals to move up the agricultural value chain, shifting from raw commodity production to processed goods and sustainable trade.
Addressing Global Challenges
The timing of the WAF’s establishment and Kyere-Mensah’s appointment is critical. The global agricultural sector faces mounting pressure from:
- Climate Change: Altering growing seasons and crop yields.
- Food Insecurity: Supply chain disruptions and population growth.
- Trade Dynamics: Shifting protectionist policies and market access barriers.
By integrating experts from diverse regions, the WAF Council aims to facilitate policy administration and trade agreements that are resilient and inclusive. Kyere-Mensah’s input is expected to be vital in these areas, particularly regarding sustainable practices that benefit both producers and consumers.
Practical Advice
For Agribusiness Professionals
The nomination of a Ghanaian expert to a global body serves as a case study for career advancement in international agriculture. Professionals looking to influence policy should:
- Develop Specialized Expertise: Focus on high-impact areas like climate-smart agriculture, supply chain logistics, or food security.
- Engage in Multinational Forums: Actively participate in regional and international conferences to build a network.
- Build a Track Record: Demonstrate leadership in local or regional projects that have measurable impacts on food systems.
For Stakeholders in Ghana
Local stakeholders can leverage this nomination by:
- Collaborating with Kyere-Mensah to highlight Ghanaian agricultural innovations on the WAF platform.
- Aligning national agricultural strategies with the WAF’s focus on sustainability and trade.
- Utilizing the increased visibility to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into Ghana’s agribusiness sector.
FAQ
What is the World Agriculture Forum?
The World Agriculture Forum (WAF) is an international organization based in the Netherlands, designed to act as a platform for global agricultural advancement. It focuses on food security, sustainable farming, and trade policy, similar in scope to the World Economic Forum but with a specific agricultural focus.
What are the responsibilities of a WAF Council member?
Council members are responsible for shaping international policy discussions and strategic business development within the agricultural sector. They provide guidance on the Forum’s agenda and ensure that diverse global perspectives are included in decision-making.
How does this nomination impact Ghana’s agriculture?
It elevates Ghana’s profile in international agricultural policy circles. It provides an opportunity to advocate for African interests, access global best practices, and potentially attract international partnerships and funding for Ghanaian agribusiness initiatives.
When will the first WAF summit take place?
According to the announcement, the WAF plans to host an annual multinational summit to set the agenda for global agriculture. Specific dates for the inaugural summit are typically announced via official WAF channels following the formation of the Council.
Conclusion
The nomination of Evans Kyere-Mensah to the World Agriculture Forum Council is a testament to his expertise and a significant milestone for Ghana’s standing in global agribusiness. As the WAF works to establish a collaborative platform for addressing the world’s most pressing agricultural challenges, the inclusion of African voices is essential. This development promises to foster innovative solutions for food security and sustainable trade, positioning Ghana as a key player in the future of global agriculture.
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