Emerging Markets: West Africa

As part of the USDA-funded Emerging Markets Program (EMP), GCCF is assessing cold chain logistics, technology, operations, and investment in Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Ghana. This initiative aims to enhance food safety, reduce waste, and increase trade of perishable goods, ultimately strengthening long-term cold chain capacity in West Africa.

Since the project began in April 2024, GCCF has carried out a rapid cold chain assessment in West Africa, reviewing standard procedures, design trends, and operations of a variety of cold chain actors. With the support of GCCF technical experts and volunteers, the project has kicked off its mentorship program to connect local operators with international experts in design-build, operations, and administration in cold storage and logistics.

In April, GCCF will deliver hybrid virtual and in-person cold chain training in English and French in the three countries. In collaboration with the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), GCCF will also participate in a trade mission to Ghana, lead a seminar on cold chain management, and provide on-site consultations to operators in Accra and Tema.

If you are interested to volunteer on this project or participate in our mentorship and training programs, please contact Madison Jaco (mjaco@gcca.org) for more information.