AGRA recognizes women leading Africa’s agrifood transformation

MOZAMBIQUE – To mark International Women’s Day 2026, the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) highlighted the role of women agripreneurs and opened applications for the 2026 Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards (WAYA).

Women are driving significant change in Africa’s agrifood systems, yet many still face barriers to finance, land, and market access.

Held at the Joaquim Chissano International Centre in Maputo, Mozambique, the event brought together policymakers, development partners, and women agripreneurs under the theme “Give Agency to Gain Growth.” The convening showcased women as innovators, leaders, and decision-makers strengthening Africa’s food systems.

“Women are not just participants in Africa’s agrifood systems—they are innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders driving transformation across the value chain. Investing in women’s agency, leadership, and access to opportunities unlocks growth not only for women-led businesses, but for Africa’s food systems and economies,” said Ms. Alice Ruhweza, President of AGRA, speaking virtually.

Her Excellency Dr. Maria Benvinda Levy, Prime Minister of Mozambique, also emphasized the importance of supporting women agripreneurs. “The National Program for the Eradication of Poverty places the improvement of people’s living conditions at the centre of our national agenda. Women agripreneurs are central to this transformation, driving productivity, strengthening food systems, and expanding opportunity in our communities.”

WAYA Awards: Supporting Africa’s women agripreneurs

The 2026 WAYA Awards, a key initiative under AGRA’s VALUE4HER program, recognize women demonstrating leadership, innovation, and business excellence in agricultural value chains.

Winners will receive grants of up to USD 300,000 to expand their businesses and impact. The awards ceremony will take place in September at the Africa Food Systems Forum in Kigali, Rwanda.

Since 2021, the WAYA Awards have highlighted the continent’s top women-led agribusinesses. Last year, finalists were selected from nearly 2,000 applicants across countries including Benin, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda. Their innovations ranged from ag-tech solutions and value addition to sustainable farming and community leadership.

Applications for WAYA2026 close on 8th May 2026. Women-led agribusinesses across Africa are encouraged to apply via AGRA or VALUE4HER social media platforms.

Closing the gaps that limit women’s access to resources could increase yields by 20–30%, potentially reducing global hunger by up to 17%, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization.

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