Building Better Rice Businesses: Highlights from the Business of Rice Milling Training in Tamale

From March 18th to 20th, 2025, 19 rice processors from across Ghana gathered in Tamale to take part in an impactful three-day training under the Rice Miller Business Training Program (RMBT), an initiative implemented by Sense Economics and GIZ-MOVE. The training focused on one of the program’s core modules: The Business of Rice Milling (BRM) — designed to equip rice millers with the technical knowledge and business skills to grow and sustain their enterprises.

The participants, made up of 12 men and 7 women, included 8 youth representatives, all of whom were eager to gain deeper insights into the rice milling industry. Over the three days, they explored key areas such as rice milling processes, quality control, supply chain management, machinery maintenance, financial planning and legal compliance.

The training was structured to ensure participants could not only understand the theory but also see how it applies in practice. Through interactive sessions and real-life case studies, the rice millers learned how to make their businesses more efficient and profitable.

According to Mr. Sugri Henry, one of the participants, the training was a game-changer:

“I acquired essential skills, including technical knowledge of the milling process, pricing, marketing, and financial management. It also provided entrepreneurial guidance and networking opportunities that will help me improve efficiency and increase profitability.”

Another participant, Mr. Frederick, shared how the training helped him rethink his sourcing strategy:

“Previously, we only contacted farmers when we needed paddy, which affected the quality. But now, we understand the importance of building strong relationships with farmers for a steady supply of quality paddy. The 'Source, Make, and Sell' model also helped us better identify our customers and how to meet their needs.”

Participants also received valuable insights into market analysis and strategic pricing — empowering them to make data-driven decisions for their businesses. By the end of the program, many left not just with new knowledge, but with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence.

The session underscored the importance of capacity building for rice processors and highlighted how targeted training can support the broader goal of strengthening Ghana’s rice value chain. It’s not just about milling rice — it’s about building thriving businesses that serve communities and contribute to national food security.

About RMBT

The Rice Miller Business Training Program (RMBT) is a comprehensive initiative under GIZ-MOVE that seeks to enhance the capacity of rice millers in Ghana through practical training modules. The program supports inclusive agribusiness growth and promotes sustainable development in the rice sector.

Stay tuned as we continue to share more success stories from participants who are transforming their rice milling enterprises — one skill at a time.