Contact: Rashida Petersen, (202) 499-2380 ext. 288 or rpetersen@oici.org

AGCO is lead sponsor for OIC International’s Youth Investment Summit: The Road to Economic Growth in Accra, Ghana

WASHINGTON, DC, USA (MAY 23, 2013)— AGCO was the lead sponsor at a May 16th Youth Investment Summit: The Road to Economic Recovery, in Accra, Ghana. Over 200 government and business leaders – including the Honorable Nii Armah Ashitey, Minister for Employment and Labor Relations and Social Welfare for the Government of the Republic of Ghana — as well as entrepreneurs, donors and community representatives, convened at the La Palm Royal Hotel to examine the “how” for unlocking human potential in unemployed and underemployed youth throughout Africa.

Louisa Parker, Manager of Institutional Funding and Stakeholder Relations for Africa and Middle East (AME) for AGCO, joined Crispian Kirk, President and CEO of OIC International for a panel titled “Remarks and Conversation.” In her presentation, Ms. Parker provided an overview of AGCO’s Africa Strategy and Initiatives. In her remarks, she referenced the findings of a company report that details how and why more African youth are turning to farming as a career choice. Sahra Ibrahim Malin, Strategic Assistant & Project Coordinator, Sales EAME for AGCO, also addressed the Summit, speaking at Workshop 4, “Opportunities for Ghanaian Youth in Agriculture.”  Both AGCO representatives emphasized the importance of how farm machine technology along with investing in education are the key are the key for long-term rural development.

Farm machinery boosts efficiency and helps yield, while also relieving workers from the boredom of manual labor currently employed in many areas to cultivate the land and tend crops. This practice is highlighted in the song “Youth in Agriculture.” The catchy tune and memorable lyrics aim to convey the message that a country’s health and development more often than not depend on farming. By taking an active role in agriculture, African youth can help in the fight against hunger. The song, which was played during the Summit, was written by the MEGA Fame Foundation, an NGO based in Ghana.

Stated Crispian Kirk, “Make no mistake. The technical and vocational training of Africa’s youth will equip the private and public sectors with the skilled workforce needed to support their investments and enhance their operations. AGCO recognizes this and I want to personally thank them for being our lead sponsor for the Summit. The presentations by Louisa Parker and Sahra Ibrahim Malin were impressive and OIC International is looking forward to partnering with AGCO on similar initiatives moving forward. With out the support of AGCO, the Summit would not have been the success that it was.”

OIC International is a non-profit organization headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  Since 1970, OIC International has differentiated itself by creating indigenous NGOs in developing and transitional countries. OIC International’s locally registered affiliates embody the philosophy of self-reliance and operate with an independent local board and staff. This unique affiliate model was born out of the belief that the best way to foster economic change is through the empowerment of the local community. Today OIC International is building capacity of communities through technical and vocational training in agriculture livelihoods, health and nutrition.