ACCRA: SNV Netherlands Development Organisation is set to launch Business Transformation Laboratories (BTLs) aimed at supporting land-based investors in agriculture and forestry by developing effective business models and partnerships. This initiative is part of the Transformative Land Investment (TLI) project and seeks to bolster investments in these sectors through innovative financing and technical support.
According to Ghana News Agency, the TLI project is backed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented in collaboration with organizations such as the Centre for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), Centre for People and Forests (RECOFTC), Land Equity International (LEI), and World Agroforestry (ICRAF). The TLI project recently held a workshop in Accra to refine the strategies and modalities for the BTL initiative with contributions from experts.
Dr. Divine Odame Appiah, Multi-Country Project Manager for SNV’s TLI Project, highlighted the initiative’s focus on providin
g a one-stop shop for business solutions tailored to the needs of investors. The laboratories aim to enhance financial capability and sustainable environmental practices among land-based investors, thereby promoting long-term economic performance.
Experts at the Accra meeting advised the project team to undertake feasibility assessments to determine optimal locations for the laboratories and recommended collaboration with existing business support providers and state agencies to identify sectoral gaps. Dr. Alexander Tetteh Kwasi Nuer from the University of Cape Coast emphasized the importance of an early exit strategy and stakeholder engagement for project sustainability.
Dr. Stanislaus Adiaba, a Land Economist, noted the challenges faced by investors in land acquisition and management. He emphasized that the laboratories could offer critical services in land identification to protect investor interests.