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Category: Press Releases

Agricultural Insurance: 6,600 Malian Farmers Compensated — A Turning Point for Agricultural Resilience

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In the face of increasing climate shocks, the Malian government and its partners are multiplying efforts to protect smallholder farmers. On April 7, 2025, a landmark event was held at the Salam Hotel in Bamako to officially launch the payout of 100 million FCFA to 6,600 affected farmers from the 2024–2025 agricultural season. These producers, located across the Kayes, Koulikoro, Ségou, and Sikasso regions, are the beneficiaries of a pioneering climate insurance pilot designed to support recovery after climate-related losses.

Implemented by AFG Assurances Mali in partnership with the pan-African insurtech firm Pula Advisors, and backed by AGRA, the initiative is based on an index insurance model that uses weather and yield data to trigger collective payouts. This innovative approach ensures fast, objective, and transparent compensation—helping farmers avoid the downward spiral of climate-driven financial loss.

“This day is more than a ceremonial moment,” emphasized Cissé Adam Ba, CEO of AFG Assurances Mali. “It proves that when public, private, and technical actors work together, concrete and effective solutions emerge.” She also recalled the devastating floods of the past season, which led to widespread crop failure and justified the activation of the insurance mechanism.

For Pula Advisors, the goal is to stand alongside farmers when they need it most. “This wasn’t just a pilot — it was a demonstration that our product works. And when disaster strikes, it’s the insurer’s duty to be there,” said Pierre Sagara, Pula Mali’s Country Director.

National actors applauded the initiative. Sanoussi Bouya Sylla, President of APCAM (Assemblée Permanente des Chambres d’Agriculture du Mali), stressed the urgency of strengthening agricultural finance in a country where over 80% of the population depends on farming. “We need solutions tailored to our agricultural reality. This project is one of them,” he said.

 

AGRA’s Mali Country Director, Dr. Ahamadou Touré, highlighted the project’s broader implications. “This pilot has proven that it is possible to effectively protect farmers from climate risks. Many lost everything last year, and this compensation gives them a real opportunity to recover.”

The Commissioner for Food Security also underlined the government’s commitment to scale. “This payout marks the beginning of a larger ambition. We will work with all stakeholders to build a national framework that can extend this kind of insurance to all Malian producers.”

The project is supported by several strategic partners including the Office du Moyen Bani, CMDT, MEREF-SFD, NYÈSIGISO, and the Cotton Producers’ Cooperative Confederation. It aligns with Mali’s national priorities to strengthen farmers’ economic resilience, secure their incomes, and build a more inclusive and climate-resilient agricultural sector.

Beyond the ceremony, this initiative signals a deeper shift — the emergence of a more stable, protected agricultural future in Mali. Through accessible, data-driven, and replicable insurance tools, farmers are being empowered to cross a threshold toward lasting transformation.

 

AGRA and IICA Strengthen Africa-Americas Collaboration on Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development

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Nairobi, Kenya 9th April 2025 – AGRA and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) solidified a shared work plan to deepen technical cooperation aimed at promoting inclusive agricultural transformation across Africa and the Americas in this critical year leading up to major food systems and climate milestones in each region, such as COP30 in Brazil and the G20 in South Africa.

Building on nearly four years of south-south collaboration between the regions, with an MoU singed in 2021, the work plan responds to growing request from countries for deeper strategic collaboration in strengthening public and private sector institutions, sharing technical expertise, and enhancing food security and agricultural trade while safeguarding the environment and promoting rural welfare.

AGRA and IICA bring together complementary strengths, with AGRA focusing on transforming smallholder farming across Africa through partnerships with governments, the private sector, civil society, and farmers; and IICA, as a specialized agency in agriculture for the Americas, promoting rural development through international technical cooperation of excellence.

Together, the two organizations will cooperate deeply going forward in areas including:

  1. Improving the well-being of rural populations
  2. Enhancing productivity and agricultural trade
  3. Strengthening climate resilience in agrifood systems
  4. Promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices

“This south-south partnership between AGRA and IICA is a powerful signal of inter-regional solidarity and shared ambition,” said Ms. Alice Ruhweza, President of AGRA. “At a time when global food systems are under immense strain, collaboration across continents is not just strategic but very essential. African countries have so much to benefit from the experience, approaches, and innovations in Latin America. By uniting our expertise and resources with IICA, we are laying the foundation for more resilient, equitable, and sustainable food systems that benefit smallholder farmers and rural communities across both regions.”

IICA Director General, Dr. Manuel Otero, also hailed the partnership as a critical step in advancing South-South cooperation. “Africa and the Americas share common agricultural challenges and opportunities. This partnership allows us to harness our mutual strengths to accelerate rural transformation, promote sustainable trade, and support communities vulnerable”.

For Otero, the partnership with AGRA will help implement regenerative tropical agriculture practices as a solution to the most pressing challenges facing the African continent and transform it into the world’s new agricultural frontier. “Africa is home to 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land and 10% of the world’s renewable water resources. This enormous agricultural and environmental potential offers a unique opportunity to integrate the continent into the global supply chain, positioning it as a key player in food production,” he explained.

The collaboration builds on a series of high-level engagements between the two regions, including: the Africa-Americas Joint Ministerial Summit in Costa Rica in July 2022, the Inter-regional Ministerial Roundtable in Vietnam in 2023 co-organized by AGRA, IICA, FAA, and Grow Asia; and the launch of the Africa Living Soils Initiative in Kenya in 2024 on the eve of the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit. These engagements reinforced the urgency and importance of inter-regional cooperation in driving food systems transformation globally.

Also, the Africa-Brazil Dialogue on Agricultural Research, Development and Innovation was recently held in Brasilia, the Brazilian capital, bringing together experts, representatives from AGRA, FARA, ambassadors and high-level officials from the Brazilian government and international agencies, as well as one of the world’s leading soil experts, Nobel Prize winner and IICA Goodwill Ambassador, Rattan Lal. The meeting was organized by IICA, together with Brazil’s state-owned agricultural research company, Embrapa, and the Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC).

On the occasion, a letter of intent was signed between the organizers to promote the exchange of 30 researchers from scientific institutes, universities and government agencies in African countries, to exchange knowledge on technologies that promote food security, regenerative agriculture and the recovery of degraded areas.

 

About AGRA

AGRA is an African-led, farmer-centered, and partnerships-driven institution working to transform African agriculture from a subsistence model to commercially viable, smallholder farming that improves food security, nutrition, and income for millions of farmers in Africa.

About IICA

The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) is the specialized agency for agriculture of the Inter-American System. IICA works with its member states to promote agricultural development and rural well-being in the Americas through technical cooperation, capacity-building, and policy support.

 

YEFFA Burkina Faso Youth Convening Successfully Empowers Youth In Agriculture &Food Systems

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Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. 28 March 2025 – The Youth Entrepreneurship for the Future of Food and Agriculture (YEFFA) Burkina Faso Youth Convening, themed “Empowering Youth for Decent Jobs and Climate-Resilient Food Systems,” successfully concluded on 28 March 2025 in Ouagadougou. The pivotal event amplified youth voices, showcased agribusiness opportunities, and fostered dialogue between young people, policymakers, and key stakeholders to address the urgent challenges facing Burkina Faso’s agricultural sector and its young people.

This marks a significant step towards transforming food systems and creating dignified employment for youth in Burkina Faso.

Agriculture is the cornerstone of Burkina Faso’s economy, employing 73% of the workforce. With approximately 65% of the population under 25, the convening underscored the critical importance of investing in youth-led agribusiness to drive job creation, economic growth, and a resilient food system, empowering youth as drivers of climate-resilient agriculture and economic opportunity.

The YEFFA Convening addressed challenges faced by young people, particularly rural youth and women through a dynamic forum where participants shared their experiences and innovative solutions, emphasizing the need for access to land, finance, and training in climate-smart agricultural practices. Discussions with policymakers on creating an enabling environment and youth-friendly policies for youth-led agribusinesses marked a significant part of the gathering.

At the end of the day, the YEFFA Convening also provided an avenue for exhibitions of youth-led ventures, demonstrating cutting-edge solutions for sustainable agriculture, as well as networking opportunities, where the youth, particularly women and marginalized groups, were able make connections and interact with potential partners, investors, and mentors. This was with the aim of strengthening and deepening new and existing partnerships with key stakeholders.

The Burkina Faso Convening built upon pre-convening regional discussions in Central Plateau, Haut Bassin, Cascade, Boucle du Mouhoun, Sud Ouest, and Centre Ouest, ensuring a broad representation of youth perspectives including a set of policy recommendations presented to the Ministry of Agriculture, calling for increased investment in youth-led climate-smart agriculture and the creation of a dedicated fund for young agripreneurs.

A representative of the Ministry of Agriculture commended AGRA and the Mastercard Foundation for the initiative, reiterating the Ministry’s mandate of empowering the youth in transforming the country’s Agric sector. “The YEFFA Convening is a crucial step in transforming Burkina Faso’s food systems. The Ministry of Agriculture will take concrete action based on the insights and recommendations shared by our youth. We will continue to prioritize creating decent jobs, promoting climate-resilient agriculture, and ensuring that young people, especially women and marginalized groups, are at the forefront of this transformation.”

Amath Pathe Sene – AGRA Acting Regional Manager, West Africa, re-emphasized AGRA’s commitment. “Burkina Faso’s youth are not just the future of agriculture; they are the key to building a climate-resilient and prosperous nation. This convening has provided a powerful platform for young people to shape the policies and programs that will determine their future, and we are committed to supporting them every step of the way.”

A participant at the event, expressed optimism at the outcomes, saying, “We, the youth of Burkina Faso, felt empowered and heard at the convening. We are ready to lead the way in creating a sustainable and thriving agricultural sector, and we are grateful for the opportunity to have our voices heard.”

The convening, according to Jules SOME, AGRA Country Director, “was a resounding success, demonstrating the incredible potential of Burkina Faso’s youth to drive agricultural transformation and build a more resilient and prosperous future for all.”

The YEFFA program, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is a 5-year initiative aimed at increasing youth and young women’s involvement in agricultural transformation. In Burkina Faso, the program seeks to catalyze food systems transformation, creating dignified job opportunities for youth, with a strong emphasis on female participation.

Mali YEFFA Convening Empowers Youth in Agriculture, Charts Path for Economic Growth

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Bamako, Mali –March 10, 2025 – AGRA, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has successfully concluded the Mali YEFFA (Youth Entrepreneurship for the Future of Food and Agriculture) Convening in Bamako on March 10, 2025. The transformative event brought together youth entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, and key stakeholders to drive innovation and create opportunities in Mali’s vital agricultural sector.

Addressing the critical need to engage Mali’s youth in agriculture, the Mali YEFFA Convening served as a pivotal platform for fostering collaboration and unlocking the potential of young people in the country’s agricultural sector, which employs nearly 80% of Malians and contributes about 33% of the GDP.

Earlier in the month, over 400 young agripreneurs from across Mali gathered in Ségou, Sikasso, Koulikoro, and Bamako to participate in a series of dynamic convenings focused on transforming agriculture into a profitable and sustainable livelihood. These events provided a vital platform for Malian youth to shape the future of their country’s agri-food sector. Therefore, this major event featured a dynamic program that amplified the voices of Malian youth, fostered knowledge sharing, and strengthened partnerships. Key highlights included:

  • Youth Communiqué Presented: Representatives from Ségou, Sikasso, and Koulikoro presented a unified message outlining the needs and aspirations of young agricultural entrepreneurs, which was well-received by policymakers and stakeholders. Participants did not just receive information—they actively shaped the agenda, ensuring that their priorities, experiences, and aspirations are embedded in the country’s national priorities. Through the development of communiqués, they reflected their vision for a more inclusive, resilient, and youth-friendly agri-food system in Mali.
  • Ministry of Agriculture Officially acknowledged Mali YEFFA: The Ministry of Agriculture delivered keynote remarks and officially acknowledged the Mali YEFFA initiative, signaling the government’s strong commitment to supporting youth in agriculture.
  • AGRA’s Contribution:  A young lady entrepreneur, CEO of Agrowomen, who has received funding and support from AGRA Gogettez and Value4Her delivered her reflections and experiences as an example of AGRA’s contribution to the youth in agriculture landscape in Mali.
  • Expert Insights Shared: Mr. Birama Sidibe shared valuable insights on how to improve the landscape for supporting youth access to opportunities in agriculture, sparking productive discussions among participants.

“The energy and passion of the young entrepreneurs at the Mali YEFFA Convening were truly inspiring,” said Catherine Rusagara, Head of YEFFA Program Delivery at AGRA. “We are confident that this event has laid the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector, where youth are empowered to drive economic growth and food security.”

Prof. Ahamadou Bocar, AGRA Country Director, added, “The convening fostered a valuable ecosystem for knowledge sharing and networking, connecting young entrepreneurs with the resources and support they need to succeed. We are committed to continuing to strengthen partnerships between youth, government, the private sector, and investors to create lasting impact.”

Regina Richardson, AGRA Country Programs Lead, noted that the Mali YEFFA program worth $30million will avail dignified and fulfilling work opportunities in the agricultural sector for young women and financially disadvantaged youth. She noted that AGRA is excited to introduce a competition where youth who develop innovative ideas in alignment with the program objectives can win a grant award of $100,000 to implement a 36-months project.

The Mali YEFFA Convening successfully:

  • Amplified the voice of Malian youth in the agriculture sector.
  • Fostered a digital and offline ecosystem for knowledge sharing and networking.
  • Drove youth-led storytelling and advocacy for agribusiness transformation.
  • Strengthened partnerships with key stakeholders (government, private sector, NGOs, and academia).
  • Utilized digital platforms to enhance visibility, interaction, and impact.

 

The event also addressed key challenges facing young entrepreneurs, including access to finance and the need for climate-smart agricultural practices. AGRA and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to expanding financial support for youth-led agribusiness ventures and strengthening youth participation in policy-making and agribusiness governance. Several new initiatives and partnerships were announced to address these challenges.

The success of these youth entrepreneurs is closely tied to the resilience of Mali’s food systems. By equipping them with the tools to thrive – whether through improved seed systems – climate-smart technologies, or better access to finance and markets, they are not only creating economic opportunities for themselves, but also contributing to stronger, more food-secure communities.

As the YEFFA program moves forward, the voices, solutions, and commitments captured during these convenings will serve as the foundation for collaborative action between youth, government, development partners, and private sector actors. Through inclusivity, practical skills, peer learning, and shared experiences, the program is working to build a generation of agripreneurs who see themselves not just as farmers, but as changemakers shaping Mali’s food systems for the future.

AGRA célèbre la Journée Internationale de la Femme à Accra, et lance l’édition 2025 des Prix des Femmes Agro-Entrepreneures de l’Année (WAYA)

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Accra, Ghana, 14 mars 2025 AGRA a célébré la Journée Internationale de la Femme, le vendredi 7 Mars à l’hotel Kempinski Gold Coast a Accra, en l’honneur des femmes pionnières à travers le pays et le continent, qui sont à l’avant-garde de la transformation agricole inclusive. En accord avec le thème de la Journée Internationale de la Femme (JIF), JIF de cette année, défini par les Nations Unies, l’évènement a rassemblé des femmes du secteur de l’agrobusiness ainsi que des leaders influents à  différents niveaux politiques, afin d’amplifier le message Accélérer l’action : Pour TOUTES les femmes et les filles : Droits. Égalité. Autonomisation. avec un accent particulier sur le commerce et l’accès aux marchés pour les femmes dans l’agrobusiness.

 Cet événement a également marqué le lancement officiel de l’appel a candidatures pour l’édition 2025 des Prix des Femmes Agro-Entrepreneures de l’Année (WAYA). WAYA est un programme prestigieux qui récompense les femmes agro-entrepreneures faisant preuve d’une innovation remarquable et d’une excellence entrepreneuriale dans les chaînes de valeur agricoles. Ces prix ne se contentent pas de reconnaitre leurs réalisations exceptionnelles, mais leur octroient également des subventions allant jusqu’a 300 000 dollars .

Depuis 2021, les prix sont décernés dans trois catégories :

  • Jeune Femme Agro-Entrepreneure – destiné aux femmes de moins de 35 ans ayant fait preuve d’innovation et de leadership dans leurs entreprises.
  • Innovatrice en Technologie Agricole – pour celles qui portent l’innovation technologique dans l’agrobusiness.
  • Entreprise de Valorisation Exceptionnelle – pour les entreprises agroalimentaires détenues par des femmes qui augmentent la valeur économique et/ou l’attrait des produits agricoles.
  • Le Grand Prix – qui est décerné à la lauréate globale du concours.

Cependant, depuis 2024, AGRA a introduit des prix régionaux dans la catégorie Jeune Femme Agro-Entrepreneure et a ajouté deux nouvelles catégories passionnantes :

  • Championne de l’Autonomisation des Femmes – récompensant les agro-entrepreneures qui s’engagent activement à créer des opportunités pour d’autres femmes afin de développer leur propre entreprise agricole.
  • Leader Résiliente et Inspirante – distinguant les agro-entrepreneures issues de communautés marginalisées ou de régions vulnérables et difficiles d’accès, qui, malgré des défis considérables, font preuve d’une détermination, d’une force et d’une persévérance inébranlables pour exceller dans l’agrobusiness.

Les candidatures seront clôturées le 31 mai 2025, et les lauréates seront dévoilées lors du Forum  sur les systèmes alimentaires africains , qui se tiendra à Dakar, au Sénégal, en septembre 2025.

Pour être éligibles, les entreprises doivent opérer dans une chaîne de valeur agricole ou agroalimentaire, être légalement enregistrées dans un pays de l’Union africaine, et être détenues et gérées par au moins 51 % des femmes citoyennes de l’un des 55 pays africains.

Les inscriptions se font via le lien suivant : https://waya.awardsplatform.com/.

S’exprimant lors de l’événement, Mme Nana Amoah, directrice du Genre, de la Jeunesse et de l’Inclusion de l’AGRA, a déclaré :

« En 2024, nous avons reçu plus de 1 500 candidatures de femmes issues de 42 pays africains. Alors que nous lançon à nouveau les prix cette année, nous prévoyons de recevoir au moins 500 candidatures par catégorie et poursuivons nos efforts pour honorer les efforts inlassables, les idées créatives et le leadership remarquable des femmes dans le secteur agroalimentaire. »

WAYA est une initiative de programme VALUE4HER d’AGRA, un programme continental visant à renforcer les entreprises agroalimentaires dirigées par des femmes et à amplifier leur voix et leur plaidoyer à travers l’Afrique.

L’événement a été organisé en collaboration avec le Ministère du Genre, de l’Enfance et de la Protection Sociale, le Secrétariat de la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf) et l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’Alimentation et l’Agriculture (FAO).

Des représentants de haut niveau, dont M. Haile-Gabriel Abebe, Directeur général adjoint de la FAO et Représentant régional pour l’Afrique, ont souligné l’importance de cette rencontre a rassemblé des acteurs  de divers secteurs – gouvernement, société civile et secteur privé – pour aborder les questions d’égalité des genres et de l’autonomisation économique des femmes. Ils ont appelé à des actions collaboratives et stratégiques de la part de toutes les parties prenantes afin libérer le potentiel économique des femmes, de stimuler la croissance inclusive et d’intégrer la durabilité dans le paysage agroalimentaire africain en plein.

Lors de l’événement, les participantes ont pris part à des masterclasses interactives, des tables rondes et des sessions de réseautage, favorisant  l’échange de bonnes pratiques et mettant en évidence la nécessité de créer un environnement propice à la peine participation des femmes dans les sphères  économiques, sociales et politiques. L’accent a été mis sur l’importance des interventions basées sur des données probantes pour réduire les inégalités de genre.

 À propos d’AGRA

Fondée en 2006, AGRA est une institution dirigée par des Africains et basée en Afrique, dédiée à placer les petits exploitants agricoles au cœur de la transformation économique du continent. Sa mission est de transformer l’agriculture d’une lutte pour la survie à une entreprise prospère. En collaboration avec ses partenaires, AGRA catalyse et soutient une transformation agricole inclusive visant à augmenter les revenus et à améliorer la sécurité alimentaire dans 12 pays.

Contact presse

Pour toute information concernant le Prix et la nomination, veuillez contacter :

http://media@agra.org/

AGRA brings International Women’s Day Celebration to Accra, Launches 2025 Edition of The Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards (WAYA)

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Accra, Ghana, March 10th, 2025 AGRA commemorated International Women’s Day on Friday, 7th March, at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast Accra, in honor of trailblazing women across the country and continent who are at the forefront of inclusive agricultural transformation. In line with year’s IWD theme by the United Nations, the event brought together women in agribusiness and influential leaders at various policy levels to amplify messaging on Accelerating Action: For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment. with a special focus on trade and access to markets for women in agribusiness.

AGRA also officially launched the call for applications for the 2025 Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards (WAYA). WAYA is a prestigious award scheme that recognizes female agripreneurs demonstrating remarkable Innovation and business excellence in agricultural value chains. The awards not only celebrate their remarkable achievements but also reward them with grants of up to $300,000.

Since 2021, the awards have been distributed across 3 categories; Young Female Agripreneur (for those under the age of 35 years and have demonstrated innovation and leadership in business), Female Agriculture Tech Innovator (those championing technological advancement in agribusiness) and, Outstanding Value Adding Enterprise  (for female-owned agribusinesses that are increasing the economic value and/or consumer appeal to agricultural products), with the coveted Grand Prize Winner being the overall winner of the competition. However, beginning 2024, AGRA introduced regional winners in the Young Female Agripreneurs category, and also added two exciting new categories: Women Empowerment Champion (recognizing female agripreneurs who exhibit a deliberate commitment to creating opportunities for other women to grow their own agribusinesses) and a Resilient & Inspirational Leader (recognizing female agripreneurs from marginalized communities or vulnerable and hard-to-reach areas who, despite facing significant challenges demonstrate unwavering determination, strength, and perseverance to excel in agribusiness). Applications will close on 31 May 2025, with the winning agripreneurs being unveiled during the Africa Food Systems Forum to be held in Dakar Senegal this September 2025.

To be eligible, businesses must operate within an agricultural or agribusiness value chain, be legally registered in an African Union country, and be at least 51% owned and managed by women who are citizens of one of the 55 African countries. Registrations are done through the link below: https://waya.awardsplatform.com/

Speaking at the event, AGRA’s Director for Gender, Youth, and Inclusiveness, Ms. Nana Amoah said, “We received over 1,500 applications from women across 42 African countries in 2024. As we open the awards again this year, we expect to receive at least 500 applications in each category and continue our efforts to honor the unrelentless efforts, creative ideas, and outstanding leadership by women in the agri-food sector”.

WAYA is an initiative of AGRA’s VALUE4HER, a continental program that is aimed at strengthening women’s agribusiness enterprises and enhancing their voice and advocacy across Africa.

The event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat and the Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. Senior representatives from the institutions, including the FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa, Mr HaileGabriel Abebe, recognized the significance of the occasion in bringing together stakeholders from diverse sectors, including government, civil society, and the private sector, to address gender equality and women’s economic empowerment concerns. They called on collaborative and strategic action from all stakeholders to harness women’s economic potential, drive inclusive growth, and embed sustainability across Africa’s evolving agri-food landscape.

During the event, participants engaged in interactive masterclasses, panel discussions, and networking sessions that facilitated meaningful exchanges of best practices. They highlighted the importance of creating an enabling environment for women to fully participate in economic, social, and political spheres and emphasized the need for evidence-based interventions to address gender disparities.

 

About AGRA

Established in 2006, AGRA is an African-led and Africa-based institution dedicated to placing smallholder farmers at the core of the continent’s burgeoning economy. AGRA’s mission is to transform agriculture from a mere struggle for survival into a thriving business. In collaboration with its partners, AGRA catalyses and sustains an inclusive agricultural transformation aimed at increasing incomes and enhancing food security in 11 countries.

Media contact

For any information about the Prize and nomination, please contact:

media@agra.org

AGRA accueille Alice Ruhweza en tant que nouvelle présidente

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Nairobi, Kenya – 1er mars 2025 – AGRA est ravie d’accueillir Mme Alice Ruhweza en tant que nouvelle présidente, à compter d’aujourd’hui (1er mars 2025). Mme Ruhweza succède à Dr. Agnes Kalibata, qui a dirigé AGRA avec succès durant deux mandats transformateurs.

 

Mme Ruhweza apporte avec elle une vaste expérience en tant que leader mondial d’opinion, spécialiste des systèmes et experte en développement international. Forte de 28 années de carrière distinguées à l’interface des politiques et pratiques économiques, sociales et environnementales, Alice a occupé des postes de direction et de conseil dans les gouvernements, le secteur privé, les Nations Unies et de grandes ONG internationales. Elle rejoint AGRA après avoir travaillé pour le WWF, où elle a défendu avec passion des systèmes agroalimentaires inclusifs, l’atténuation du changement climatique et le développement durable.

 

Le président du conseil d’AGRA, S.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn : « Nous sommes ravis d’accueillir Mme Alice Ruhweza en tant que prochaine présidente d’AGRA. Sa vaste expérience internationale et sa compréhension profonde du paysage africain lui permettent de naviguer à travers différentes cultures et de favoriser la collaboration entre les secteurs. Nous croyons qu’elle possède les compétences nécessaires pour bâtir sur les bases solides établies et développées par Dr. Agnes Kalibata. Le conseil compte sur son leadership pour galvaniser les acteurs du secteur et favoriser une culture collaborative, axée sur les résultats et participative, à laquelle AGRA aspire. Alors que nous sommes confrontés à des défis sans précédent, ses conseils nous permettront de rester une institution à l’écoute et engagée, qui fait preuve de progrès et soutient les pays dans l’accélération de leur développement. »

 

Présidente sortante, Dr. Agnes Kalibata : « Tandis que je quitte mon rôle de présidente d’AGRA, je repense avec une immense fierté sur notre parcours transformateur au cours des dix dernières années. Le soutien du conseil, des partenaires et du personnel a été essentiel pour faire d’AGRA une institution africaine de premier plan, dotée d’un ensemble d’actifs transférables qu’elle déploie pour obtenir les résultats que nous célébrons aujourd’hui. AGRA est désormais en position de force pour relever les défis à venir et répondre à l’attente de faire davantage pour les petits exploitants agricoles. Je suis enthousiaste à l’idée de transmettre le flambeau à Alice Ruhweza, dont le leadership nous propulsera vers l’avant. Je me réjouis de travailler avec vous tous pour soutenir Alice et AGRA dans l’atteinte de nouveaux sommets. »

 

Présidente, Mme Alice Ruhweza : « Les systèmes agroalimentaires sont le principal levier de l’Afrique pour la croissance économique, la création d’emplois, l’amélioration des moyens de subsistance et la lutte contre le changement climatique. Je suis honorée de rejoindre AGRA et je suis impatiente de travailler avec l’équipe, les partenaires et les parties prenantes pour favoriser la transformation agricole et la sécurité alimentaire à travers le continent. »

 

AGRA est convaincue que le leadership d’Alice Ruhweza jouera un rôle déterminant dans la realisation de sa mission, qui est de catalyser la transformation de l’agriculture et d’améliorer les moyens de subsistance de millions de petits exploitants agricoles à travers l’Afrique.

 

 

Pour toute demande relative aux médias, veuillez contacter : akonde@agra.org

 

**Profil : Mme Alice Ruhweza, Présidente entrante d’AGRA**

 

Alice apporte une riche expérience et une approche visionnaire à son nouveau rôle. Elle nous rejoint du Fonds mondial pour la nature (WWF), où elle a occupé le poste de Directrice régionale pour l’Afrique depuis juillet 2019.

 

À ce titre, Alice a dirigé les efforts du WWF pour façonner l’agenda de durabilité à travers le continent, en menant des initiatives ayant un impact alignées avec les priorités mondiales de conservation.

 

Avant son passage au WWF, Alice a apporté des contributions significatives à Conservation International. Elle a d’abord occupé le poste de Directrice exécutive du programme Vital Signs, plaidant pour une prise de décision fondée sur des données probantes dans plusieurs pays. Elle est ensuite devenue Vice-Présidente par intérim de la Production durable, où elle a collaboré entre les secteurs pour promouvoir des pratiques durables dans l’agriculture, l’exploitation minière et l’énergie.

 

La carrière d’Alice comprend également un rôle clé au Programme des Nations Unies pour le développement (PNUD), où elle a dirigé l’Unité de financement de l’environnement mondial en Afrique, mobilisant plus de 600 millions de dollars pour soutenir des initiatives environnementales dans plus de 40 pays d’Afrique subsaharienne. Son parcours vaste en développement durable, renforcement des capacités et engagement des communautés fait d’elle une leader exceptionnelle pour AGRA.

 

Alice est titulaire d’un master en économie agricole et appliquée de l’Université du Wisconsin et d’une licence en sciences sociales de l’Université Makerere. Nous sommes ravis d’accueillir Alice Ruhweza et attendons avec impatience son leadership pour faire avancer la mission d’AGRA.

AGRA Welcomes Alice Ruhweza as New President

Posted on by AGRA

Nairobi, Kenya – March 1, 2025 – AGRA is delighted to welcome Ms. Alice Ruhweza as its new President, effective today (March 1, 2025). Ms. Ruhweza succeeds Dr. Agnes Kalibata, who has successfully led AGRA through two transformative terms.

Ms. Ruhweza brings with her a wealth of experience as a global thought leader, systems thinker, and international development expert. With a distinguished 28-year career at the intersection of economic, social, and environmental policy and practice, Alice has held leadership and board roles in government, the private sector, the United Nations, and major international NGOs. She joins AGRA from the WWF, where she has been a passionate advocate for inclusive agri-food systems, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development.

AGRA’s Board Chair, H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn: “We are excited to welcome Ms Alice Ruhweza as AGRA’s next President. Her extensive international experience and profound understanding of the African landscape equip her to navigate diverse cultures and drive collaboration across sectors. We believe she has what it takes to build on the solid foundation Dr. Agnes Kalibata established and developed. The Board is looking to her leadership to galvanize sector actors and foster a collaborative, results-oriented, and participatory culture that AGRA aspires to. As we face unprecedented challenges, her guidance will ensure that we remain a listening, engaging institution demonstrating progress and supporting countries in expediting their development.”

Outgoing President, Dr. Agnes Kalibata: “As I transition from my role as President of AGRA, I reflect with immense pride on our transformative journey over the past ten years. The support of the board, partners, and staff has been instrumental in building AGRA into a leading African institution with a strong set of transferable assets that it is deploying to achieve the results we celebrate today. AGRA is now in a strong position to meet the challenges ahead and the expectation to do more for small-holder farmers. I am excited to pass the torch to Alice Ruhweza, whose leadership will drive us forward. I look forward to working with you all to support Alice and AGRA to achieve even greater heights.”

President, Ms Alice Ruhweza: “Agri-food systems are Africa’s biggest lever for economic growth, job creation, livelihood improvement, and in addressing climate change. I am honored to join AGRA and look forward to working with the team, partners, and stakeholders to drive agricultural transformation and food security across the continent.”

AGRA is confident that Alice Ruhweza’s leadership will be instrumental in advancing its mission to catalyze agricultural transformation and improve the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers across Africa.

 

For media inquiries, please contact: akonde@agra.org

 

Profile: Ms Alice Ruhweza, Incoming President of AGRA

Alice brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to her new role. She joins us from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), where she served as the Regional Director for Africa since July 2019.

In this capacity, Alice led WWF’s efforts to shape the sustainability agenda across the continent, driving impactful initiatives aligned with global conservation priorities.

Before her tenure at WWF, Alice made significant contributions at Conservation International. She initially served as the Executive Director of the Vital Signs Programme, advocating for data-driven policy-making across multiple countries. She later became the Interim Vice President of Sustainable Production, where she collaborated across sectors to promote sustainable practices in agriculture, mining, and energy.

Alice’s career also includes a pivotal role at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where she led the Global Environment Finance Unit in Africa, mobilizing over $600 million to support environmental initiatives in more than 40 sub-Saharan countries. Her extensive background in sustainable development, capacity building, and engaging communities makes her an exceptional leader for AGRA.

Alice holds a Master’s degree in Agricultural and Applied Economics from the University of Wisconsin and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences from Makerere University. We are excited to welcome Alice Ruhweza and look forward to her leadership in driving AGRA’s mission forward.

 

AGRA Appoints Alice Ruhweza as next President

Posted on by AGRA

Nairobi, 10th January 2025 – The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) is proud to announce the appointment of Alice Ruhweza as its next President, effective March 1st, 2025. This appointment follows a thorough and comprehensive selection process in partnership with Spencer Stuart. The incoming president, Alice Ruhweza will succeed Dr. Agnes Kalibata, who has successfully led AGRA through two transformative terms.

Alice Ruhweza brings extensive expertise as a Global Thought leader, a Systems Thinker and International Development Expert.  Her 28-year career, working at the intersection of economic, social and environmental policy and practice, encompasses leadership and board roles in Government, the private sector, the United Nations, and major international NGOs. She joins us from the World Wide Fund for Nature where she has been a passionate advocate for, among other things, the critical role that inclusive agri-food systems play in combatting climate change, reversing environmental degradation, and delivering nutrition security and improved livelihoods for millions of Africans. Her leadership will be instrumental in driving AGRA’s mission to catalyze agricultural transformation and food security across Africa.

Quote from Board Chair:

‘’We are excited to welcome Alice Ruhweza as AGRA’s next President. Her extensive international experience and profound understanding of the African landscape equip her to navigate diverse cultures and drive collaboration across sectors. We believe she has what it takes to build on the solid foundation Dr. Agnes Kalibata established and developed. The Board is looking to her leadership to galvanize sector actors and foster a collaborative, results-oriented, and participatory culture that AGRA aspires to. As we face unprecedented challenges, her guidance will ensure that we remain a listening, engaging institution demonstrating progress and supporting countries in expediting their development,” said AGRA’s Board Chair, H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn.

Quote from Outgoing President:

 “As I transition from my role as President of AGRA, I reflect with immense pride on our transformative journey over the past ten years. The support of the board, partners, and staff has been instrumental in building AGRA into a leading African institution with a strong set of transferable assets that it is deploying to achieve the results we celebrate today. AGRA is now in a strong position to meet the challenges ahead and the expectation to do more for small-holder farmers.  I am excited to pass the torch to Alice Ruhweza, whose leadership will drive us forward. I look forward to working with you all to support Alice and AGRA to achieve even greater heights. “ said Dr. Agnes Kalibata.

Quote from Incoming President:

“Agri- food systems are Africa’s biggest lever for economic growth, job creation, livelihood improvement and in addressing climate change. However, the agricultural sector is still at risk from economic volatility, geopolitical tensions, and other complex crises.

For Africa to achieve its goal of sustainable and resilient agri-food systems, the next five years demand urgency, ambition, and decisive action including bold investments in research and development, innovative technologies, inclusive, climate smart and environmental friendly farming practices, more comprehensive extension services and policy frameworks that are coherent and aligned.

I am honored to join AGRA at such a critical juncture as African leaders convene to adopt the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme, or CAADP, strategy and action plan for 2026-2035. I look forward to building on Dr. Agnes Kalibata’s achievements and collaborating with our partners, stakeholders, and the dedicated members of the AGRA Board and Staff to advance our shared vision of a food-secure Africa in service of small holder farmers.” – Alice Ruhweza

About AGRA

Established in 2006, AGRA is an African-led and Africa-based institution dedicated to placing smallholder farmers at the core of the continent’s burgeoning economy. AGRA’s mission is to transform agriculture from a mere struggle for survival into a thriving business. In collaboration with its partners, AGRA catalyzes and sustains an inclusive agricultural transformation aimed at increasing incomes and enhancing food security in 12 countries.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Aggie Konde

Director – Communications, External Engagement & Advocacy

akonde@agra.org

Poultry Futures Forum to Transform the Region’s Poultry Sector

Posted on by AGRA

The two-day meet is set to reshape the poultry landscape in the region and neighbouring countries, fostering collaboration and innovation to overcome sector challenges and enhance food security.

Dar es Salaam, 16-17th October… The Government of Tanzania, the Food Action Alliance, and AGRA, in collaboration with partners across Africa’s poultry sector, are convening the Poultry Futures Forum in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This two-day forum aims to unlock the poultry industry’s potential as a critical driver of food security, economic development, and employment in the region.

The Forum will spotlight the pivotal roles of youth and women in the poultry sector, recognising their unique contributions and challenges. Young farmers will present innovative solutions to food systems experts through workshops, mentorship, and panel discussions, gaining valuable insights and connections for a sustainable future. Women will be acknowledged as catalysts for change, particularly in addressing issues such as funds, training, and market access.

“This forum provides a unique opportunity to address the difficulties that have long affected the poultry industry in the region while also underlining the important part that youth and women play in its future. Through regional collaboration and dialogues, we can unlock investments and innovation, which can enable our smallholder farmers. The poultry sector has enormous potential for promoting food security and driving inclusive and sustainable growth, benefiting millions in the region,” said H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, AGRA Board Chair and former Prime Minister, Ethiopia.

With poultry demand expected to rise by 3.8% each year, the meeting will provide an opportunity to explore the sector’s role in reducing malnutrition, particularly because poultry remains the most affordable source of animal protein in the region. The event is scheduled to coincide with World Food Day 2024 and the Tanzania Poultry Show.

By the end of the event, participants will develop action plans to drive sector growth while tackling important issues such as market access, funding, and sustainability. The goal is to improve the livelihoods of 10 million people in Tanzania and its neighbouring Southern African countries while also fostering inclusive economic growth and environmental sustainability through a collaborative Southern African Poultry Initiative.

The Forum will provide a collaborative platform for all stakeholders—policymakers, private sector leaders, agripreneurs, and youth—to work together to generate long-term change in the poultry sector, boosting food security and sustainable economic growth throughout the region.

About AGRA

Founded in 2006, AGRA, formerly known as the Alliance for Green Revolution is an African-led African-based organisation that seeks to catalyse Agriculture Transformation in Africa. AGRA is focused on putting smallholder farmers at the centre of the continent’s growing economy by transforming agriculture from a solitary struggle to survive into farming as a business that thrives. As the sector that employs the majority of Africa’s people, nearly all of them small-scale farmers, AGRA recognizes that developing smallholder agriculture into a productive, efficient, and sustainable system is essential to ensuring food security, lifting millions out of poverty, and driving equitable growth across the continent.

For media interviews and enquiries: media@agra.org