South African women in agribusiness are urged to apply for the VALUE4HER Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards (WAYA) and vie for a chance to win a share of a staggering prize pool worth nearly R5.6 million.
The WAYA awards offer a unique platform for women from across Africa to gain recognition for their achievements. There are five award categories to suit a variety of achievements: Young Female Agripreneur for rising stars, Female Ag-Tech Innovator, Outstanding Value-Adding Enterprise, Women Empowerment Champion, and Resilience & Inspirational Winner.
Winners will be awarded cash prizes totalling $300 000, with category winners receiving between $25 000 (about R470 000) and $40 000 (about R740 000). Additionally, no less than 50 applicants will benefit from access to an acceleration business programme, and the opportunity to network with key industry players at the African Food Systems Forum in Kigali, Rwanda this September.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for African women in agribusiness to showcase their leadership and innovation,” said Ivor Price, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Food For Mzansi.
“We encourage women agripreneurs across South Africa to apply, regardless of their age or area of expertise. We are looking for inspiring stories from women who are contributing to food security and a thriving agricultural sector in Africa.”
WAYA Awards go beyond recognition
WAYA, an initiative led by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), was launched in 2021. The programme isn’t just about celebrating success, it’s about building a stronger future for women in agriculture.
Winnie Osulah, the Gender Integration Lead at AGRA, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to empowering women agripreneurs. “We are committed to spotlighting these women as positive role models. The initiative goes beyond just an award ceremony.”
WAYA is an initiative of AGRA’s VALUE4HER Program, which offers a comprehensive support system designed to address the specific challenges women face in the agricultural sector. This includes practical assistance like connecting them to markets and trade opportunities, as well as supporting them secure opportunities in financing and investments.
Beyond the financial and markets access support, VALUE4HER fosters connections through tailored online and offline networking events. Educational opportunities and global advocacy are also part of the programme, ensuring women have the knowledge and resources they need to thrive in agrifood systems.
VALUE4HER is powered by VALUE4HERConnect, Africa’s first women in agribusiness digital marketplace, offering integrated business solutions to women agri enterprises.
The Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards (WAYA) application process is simple and can be completed online in English, French, or Portuguese.
The deadline to apply is Friday, 31 May 2024.
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