Founded in 2005, the Vielong Business within the Jisonaayili community in the Sagnarigu Municipality specialises in maize and soybean farming and aggregation. The business supports over 100 women who play a crucial role in its operations. Despite a history of steady growth, 2024 brought unforeseen challenges that tested its resilience like never before.

The agricultural sector in Ghana is heavily reliant on weather patterns and it faced a major challenge in 2024 due to poor rainfall. Vielong Business, which annually cultivates 150 to 200 acres of maize and soybeans, suffered significant yield reductions. Limited working capital further compounded its difficulties, hampering its ability to purchase crops from local farmers and threatening its market commitments. These challenges jeopardized not only the business but also the livelihoods of the women it employs as well as the smallholder farmers it supports.

In October 2024, Vielong Business partnered with Tradeline Consult, a renowned business advisory firm, to address its pressing financial needs. Tradeline facilitated access to a GHS 200,000 loan from the Tamale Archdiocesan union of Corperative Society for Development (TAUCSOD), marking a turning point in Vielong’s recovery journey.

The financial support, under the leadership of Una Ang-numbaala, enabled Vielong Business to achieve remarkable milestones:

• Aggregation Success: The business aggregated 150 bags of maize and 120 bags of soybeans, meeting market demands despite earlier setbacks.
• Employment Continuity: The loan ensured ongoing employment for 100 women, safeguarding their livelihoods and providing financial stability.
• Market Stability: By fulfilling supply obligations, Vielong retained its reputation as a dependable player in the agricultural value chain.
• Community Development: Vielong’s purchases from smallholder farmers boosted the Jisonaayili community’s economy.
• Increased Productivity: The ability to meet market demands strengthened Vielong’s foundation for future growth.

The continuity of employment for 100 women workers demonstrates Vielong’s commitment to empowering women, providing them with economic independence and social upliftment. Moreover, the collaboration with Tradeline Consult and TAUCSOD has strengthened partnerships, enhancing Vielong’s access to financial and advisory resources for long-term growth.

“Looking ahead, Vielong Business plans to invest in irrigation systems, expand farmland to meet rising market demands, and add value to maize and soybeans by processing them into products such as flour or animal feed to access new markets. Additionally, we aim to train our 100 women workers to improve productivity and acquire new skills, further empowering them economically.”- Una Ang-numbaala, leader of the group stated.

As it embraces the future, Vielong Business is poised to lead the charge in sustainable agribusiness, leaving a lasting impact in Jisonaayili and beyond. Its journey underscores the critical role of financial support and the enduring power of community-driven success.

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