Ghana: FanMilk Vendor Academy to train 2,700 street vendors in four months

Fan Milk PLC, Ghana’s leading dairy and beverage company, has introduced the ‘FanMilk Vendor Academy,’ a new initiative aimed at training and empowering more than 2,700 street vendors nationwide from August to November 2024.

In line with Danone’s ‘Thriving with Our People & Communities’ pillar, the academy offers targeted training in key areas including personal grooming, hygiene, road safety, and financial management.

Lionel Parent, Managing Director of FanMilk Ghana, emphasizing the significance of the academy stated, “The academy is a key component of our strategic project named “Sankofa” where we are collaborating with our vendors and agents on impactful initiatives to restore and sustain the unique glory of FanMilk.”

“Our unique vending system built over the past six decades has provided sustainable livelihoods directly and indirectly for millions of Ghanaians over the years. By launching the Vendor Academy, we are equipping our vendors with essential skills to ensure that the business grows together with its partners- a solid way to bring back the pride of the FanMilk brand. Our goal at FanMilk is ensuring our vendors are equipped with essential life and business skills, which contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of the business.”

In addition to the trainings, FanMilk has specifically created the “Right to Dream” Award Scheme and has awarded 10 loyal street vendors whose hard work has helped put the company’s brands into the hands of consumers all over Ghana.

The company will offer capital support, including store rentals, freezers, and products, to help vendors establish themselves as independent business owners. This initiative aims to create sustainable jobs throughout the company’s value chain. Additionally, top performers will receive bicycles, push carts, and essential coaching to ensure the longevity of their businesses.

Through the Right to Dream Award Scheme, vendors have the opportunity to receive support for store rentals, equipment, and coaching, enabling them to transition into self-sufficient entrepreneurs.

Carlis Anaman, Sales Head for Accra Cluster, stated in her remarks, “Over the past 2 months, we have embarked on various road shows across Ghana engaging with our agents. During these visits, FanMilk Ghana also provided over 45,000 visibility materials to ensure the vendors who collaborate with these agents look the part as the Chief Enjoyment Officers (CEO) that they are. We are dedicating the coming months engaging and equipping our cherished vendors, who are an important part of the business—making sure our products reach Ghanaians everywhere,” she added.

Listowel Adarkwah, a FanMilk vendor, who experienced the Academy on the launch day commented, “As vendors, it is our dream to own a shop and become our own bosses. I am glad that FanMilk has identified with our ultimate dream and has shown commitment to training and equipping us to achieve our dream. I believe this is a step in the right direction.

Fan Milk Plc, a Danone company, is a renowned manufacturer and distributor of dairy products and beverages in Ghana. The company is committed to providing nutritious and delicious products to its customers while maintaining high standards of quality and sustainability.

The Company’s wastewater from factory processes is thoroughly treated before being released into the Korle River. This water is also utilized for a fishpond where fish thrive, demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship. Our 1,100 m³/day treatment plant meets not only Ghana’s environmental standards but also the stricter global standards set by Danone.