ELITEBIZ REVIEW

In an era where climate change, food security, and sustainability are pressing global concerns, Esther Ofori Boadu is leading the way in transforming agriculture through circular economy principles. As the CEO and Co-founder of Freshlys Family Farms Ltd, she has dedicated her work to promoting regenerative farming, reducing waste, and creating sustainable food systems that benefit both the environment and local communities.

Based in Ghana, Freshlys Family Farms Ltd is a forward-thinking agribusiness that integrates livestock and crop production in a closed-loop system, ensuring that resources are maximized and nothing goes to waste. By repurposing agricultural by-products, implementing regenerative farming techniques, and leveraging innovative technologies, the company is setting new standards for sustainable food production.

In this exclusive feature, Esther shares her journey into agriculture, the challenges and successes of implementing circular economy models, and her vision for the future of sustainable farming.

In a circular economy, nothing goes to waste—every by-product is an opportunity for innovation.

A Passion for Sustainability: The Birth of Freshlys Family Farms

Freshlys Family Farms Ltd was founded out of a personal need that evolved into a larger mission. “I needed a particular vegetable that I couldn’t find in my community, so I ordered the seeds and started growing it myself,” Esther recalls. “Very quickly, I realized that I could contribute to food security while engaging my community to do the same.”

As a natural problem solver, she immersed herself in farming, training to become a regenerative farmer and agribusiness strategist. It became evident to her that the traditional linear approach to farming—characterized by resource depletion and waste—was unsustainable. The solution lay in circular economy principles, where waste is minimized, resources are regenerated, and by-products create additional value.

“At Freshlys Family Farms, circularity is embedded in our operations. We integrate livestock and crop production into a closed-loop system, ensuring that nothing goes to waste,” she explains.

Integrating Circular Economy Strategies into Agriculture

Freshlys Family Farms implements various circular economy strategies to optimize resource use and sustainability. A prime example is the repurposing of agricultural waste. “We use manure from our cattle as organic fertilizer for our pastures, which enhances soil health and productivity,” says Esther. “Additionally, all by-products from our butchery and processing facility are converted into pet feed, ensuring that no resource is wasted.”

The farm also incorporates by-products from other industries into its operations. “Brewers’ spent grain, tuber peels, maize stover, and fruit pulp are used as supplementary feed for our livestock. This reduces feed costs while preventing waste,” she adds.

By closing the loop in its production cycle, Freshlys Family Farms not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances profitability, proving that sustainability and business success can go hand in hand.

Sustainability is not just an ethical choice; it is a smart business strategy.

Challenges and Solutions in Circular Agriculture

Transitioning to circular economy models is not without challenges. One major hurdle is the initial investment required for sustainable solutions. “For example, converting maize stover into silage for feed requires machinery for shredding and ensiling, which comes with a significant cost,” Esther explains.

To overcome financial barriers, Freshlys Family Farms has leveraged partnerships, grants, and low-interest loans to fund sustainability initiatives. Another challenge is shifting mindsets—both among farmers and consumers. “We actively educate stakeholders on the benefits of circular agriculture to drive wider adoption,” she notes.

Education and awareness play a crucial role in overcoming resistance to change, and Freshlys Family Farms has made it a priority to engage with farmers, industry players, and consumers to promote the advantages of sustainable farming.

Innovative Technologies and Regenerative Practices

Freshlys Family Farms embraces technology to maximize efficiency and minimize waste. “We use technology-driven farm management software to monitor each animal’s growth, track feed consumption, and provide recommendations that help us optimize resources,” Esther shares.

Additionally, regenerative farming practices such as rotational grazing and intercropping enhance soil fertility and improve land use. “These methods reduce reliance on synthetic inputs while ensuring long-term sustainability,” she explains.

By integrating smart technologies with regenerative practices, Freshlys Family Farms is setting a precedent for how agriculture can be both productive and environmentally responsible.

Regenerative farming is the future. When we give back to the land, it rewards us with abundance.

Empowering Communities Through Food Security and Economic Growth

Beyond sustainable farming, Freshlys Family Farms plays a critical role in strengthening food security and economic empowerment within local communities. “We provide high-quality, nutritious meat products while creating employment opportunities, particularly for youth,” says Esther.

The company also invests in training programs, equipping aspiring farmers with the skills needed to adopt sustainable practices. “We organize training sessions for livestock and grain farmers, as well as offer consultancy services for new farmers. These programs help reduce costs and ensure profitability and sustainability,” she explains.

By fostering knowledge-sharing and skill development, Freshlys Family Farms is helping to build a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural sector.

The Power of Partnerships in Advancing Circular Agriculture

Collaboration is essential to scaling circular economy initiatives. Freshlys Family Farms partners with research institutions, funding organizations, and industry stakeholders to implement best practices.

“One of our most valuable collaborations has been with PUM Netherlands and the Animal Research Institute. We also work closely with other farms, sharing resources in a way that closes the loop—for example, using each other’s waste to create new products,” Esther highlights.

These partnerships have enabled Freshlys Family Farms to introduce innovative sustainability solutions that benefit not only their operations but also the broader agricultural community.

Consumer Awareness and the Shift Toward Sustainable Food

As global awareness of climate change and health-conscious living grows, more consumers are demanding sustainably produced food. “We are seeing a shift, and at Freshlys Family Farms, we make it a priority to educate our customers,” Esther says.

Through social media, farm tours, and community engagement programs, the company emphasizes the benefits of circular agriculture and responsible consumption. “We also enforce a zero-waste policy that extends to our customers, including efforts to reduce single-use plastics,” she adds.

This consumer education initiative ensures that sustainability is not just a farming practice but a shared responsibility across the entire supply chain.

The Future of Circular Economy Practices in Agriculture

Looking ahead, Esther envisions a future where circular economy principles become the standard in agriculture. “More farms will adopt regenerative practices, waste-to-value systems will be widely implemented, and technology will play a greater role in sustainability,” she predicts.

Government policies and incentives will also be key drivers in accelerating this shift. “With the right policies in place, we can make circular agriculture more accessible and scalable,” she adds.

Scaling Impact While Staying Sustainable

As Freshlys Family Farms expands, sustainability remains at the core of its growth strategy. “We are increasing livestock numbers and diversifying our product range while maintaining our commitment to circular principles,” Esther explains.

The company is also investing in capacity-building programs, mentoring two SMEs and five startup farms to integrate sustainability into their operations. “We’re also supporting five farms in transitioning from a linear economy to a circular model,” she adds.

To further enhance its impact, Freshlys Family Farms is upgrading its operations to accommodate demonstration and educational farm tours. “This will complement our training efforts and provide hands-on learning experiences,” Esther notes.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Sustainable Agriculture

For those looking to launch businesses centered around sustainability, Esther offers valuable advice: “Start small but think big. Sustainability is not just an ethical choice; it is a smart business strategy.”

She emphasizes the importance of building a resilient business model that integrates circular economy principles from the outset. “Leverage partnerships, seek knowledge from experts, and be prepared for challenges,” she advises.

Most importantly, she encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to stay committed to their vision. “Positive change in agriculture requires patience and persistence, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the challenges,” she concludes.

Start small but think big—sustainable businesses are built on vision, strategy, and resilience.

Final Thoughts

Esther Ofori Boadu’s leadership at Freshlys Family Farms Ltd exemplifies how innovation, sustainability, and community engagement can drive meaningful change in agriculture. By championing circular economy principles, she is not only transforming her farm but also inspiring a new generation of farmers to embrace regenerative and sustainable practices.

As the world moves toward a more sustainable future, leaders like Esther are paving the way for an agricultural revolution—one that prioritizes environmental stewardship, economic resilience, and food security for all.