The SIPAB Hamburg Business Expedition 2026, organized by the Shout Africa Foundation through its SIPAB initiative in partnership with the Ghana Cocoa Board’s Cocoa Health and Extension Division Senior Staff Association (CHED COSSA), was a highly successful international exchange and capacity-building program held in Hamburg, Germany, from 21st to 29th May 2026.
The expedition brought together CHED COSSA members and entrepreneurs in an immersive learning experience on sustainability, climate-smart agriculture, leadership, mental wellness, industrial innovation, and cross-cultural engagement. Through workshops, business meetings, industrial visits, and networking sessions, participants gained insight into European best practices and sustainable development innovations.
A key highlight of the program was a visit to the International Sustainability Academy (ISA) which was hosted by Vladimir Mahah, International Project Coordinator at SDW Hamburg. The participants had the opportunity to learn about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), carbon markets, sustainability standards, and climate-smart systems. Discussions emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social well-being through the Triple Bottom Line approach of People, Planet, and Profit. Participants explored how these principles can be integrated into Ghana’s cocoa sector through improved farmer welfare, sustainable production practices, stronger partnerships, and data-driven decision-making.
The delegation also visited Stüffel Gärtnerhof which is managed by Karin Scheewe. It is an organic community-supported farm in Hamburg that combines sustainable agriculture with social inclusion. The farm employs 26 persons with disability and is supported by 70 member families who receive weekly produce baskets. Participants observed innovative organic farming methods, including compost production from animal manure, greenhouse cultivation, biological pest control, and the use of horse therapy to support mental well-being.
Another major component of the expedition was the Diaspora Engagement Forum, which brought together business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and members of the Ghanaian diaspora in Germany. The forum focused on strengthening business connections between Ghana and Germany, identifying investment opportunities, and promoting collaboration in agribusiness, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The event featured presentations and panel discussions led by representatives from the diaspora community, CHED COSSA and the private sector.
The weeklong program also included sessions on leadership, mental health management, burnout prevention, and work-life balance, reinforcing the importance of employee wellness in driving productivity and organizational success. Cultural visits across Hamburg further enriched the experience by promoting intercultural understanding and strengthening relationships between Ghanaian and German stakeholders. The project lead for the SIPAB Business Expedition is Jimmy Eko Acquah, EU-Africa trade facilitator.
