As Africa continues to tap into the potential of its agrifood systems, women are increasingly taking the lead in innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership roles.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
Recognising this, AGRA, through its #VALUE4HER initiative, celebrated International Women’s Day 2026 with a high-level gathering of women agripreneurs, policymakers and development partners at the Joaquim Chissano International Centre in Maputo, Mozambique.
This event also marked the official opening of applications for the 2026 Women Agripreneurs of the Year (WAYA) Awards.
Held under the theme “Give Agency to Gain Growth,” the gathering highlighted the vital role women play in transforming Africa’s agricultural value chains. Women make up nearly half of the agrifood workforce in sub-Saharan Africa, with over three-quarters of employed women actively involved in farming. They lead farmer organisations, build agribusinesses and develop solutions that enhance food security and economic resilience.
Despite their pivotal contributions, women still face systemic barriers to land, finance, markets and other productive resources. Evidence from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) suggests that equal access to productive resources could increase women farmers’ yields by 20-30%, potentially reducing global hunger by up to 17%.
Also read: Regenerative agriculture project empowers smallholder farmers in Mozambique
Speaking virtually at the event, Alice Ruhweza, President of AGRA, said women are not just participants in Africa’s agrifood systems; they are innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders driving transformation. “Investing in women’s agency and leadership unlocks growth not only for women-led businesses, but for Africa’s food systems and economies,” said Ruhweza.
The event was also graced by Her Excellency Dr Maria Benvinda Levy, Prime Minister of Mozambique, who highlighted the central role of women agripreneurs in driving productivity, strengthening food systems and promoting inclusive development.
Women Agripreneurs of the Year (WAYA) Awards
Launched in 2021, the WAYA Awards are a flagship platform under #VALUE4HER that recognises exceptional women agripreneurs demonstrating innovation, leadership and business excellence across Africa’s agricultural value chains. Winners receive grants of up to USD 300 000 to scale their enterprises and expand their impact.
Last year, nearly 2 000 applicants competed, with finalists showcasing innovations in value addition, ag-tech, sustainable farming, and community leadership from countries including Benin, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda.
Applications for WAYA 2026 are open to women-led agribusinesses across Africa and close on 8 May 2026. Details on eligibility and application procedures can be found on AGRA and VALUE4HER social media platforms on LinkedIn, X and Facebook.
Also read:
AGRA reaffirms support to African governments in advancing food systems reforms
AGRA calls for farmer-first climate breakthrough at COP30
