The Torchbearer’s International Agricultural Science and Technology (TIAST) Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) to deepen the relationship between the two parties.
According to the two parties, the agreement will help promote the production and preparation of cassava starch on the international market for export at standard market prices.
The agreement was signed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TIAST Ghana, Mr. Freca Xiao and the CEO of GEPA, Dr. Afua Asabea Asare.
Speaking to the staff of TIAST Ghana and some representatives from the Authority, Mr. Xiao mentioned that TIAST Ghana is very excited to sign an MoU with the Authority to champion the agricultural industrialization project set to be championed by the company.
He added that he is optimistic that the partnership will spur growth in the agricultural sector since exporting goods on the international market is instrumental in generating more revenue for the country.
On the part of GEPA, Dr. Asabea Asare said the partnership between the two parties is one that is endeared by the Authority due to the numerous advantages and opportunities it is set to create through the exportation of cassava starch as a non-traditional export.
In her speech, she said that, “We were so excited when we were approached by TIAST Ghana to be a partner in the cassava starch production and export.”
“This partnership will translate into job opportunities, transfer of knowledge and skills, and good standard of living for farmers thus it is a worthwhile venture,” she added.
The Deputy CEO of GEPA, Mr. Samuel Dentu also added that the Authority aside its major duties provides support for farmers to help the processing factories produce more raw materials.
“GEPA is organizing farmers into cooperatives to be able to produce the necessary raw materials to feed the factories. We also support them with the planting materials. All this is to make the sector more attractive for farmers,” he said.
The staff of TIAST Ghana were urged to work very hard to achieve the set target. The staff also pledged to contribute their maximum quota to achieve the goals of the organization for the collective good of all.