AGRA opens 2026 WAYA awards for women agripreneurs

African women shaping agrifood systems

The call for the 2026 Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards (WAYA) is now open. The initiative is led by AGRA. It highlights the growing role of women entrepreneurs in Africa’s agrifood systems. The programme focuses on businesses that show innovation, resilience and real economic impact across agricultural value chains.

The awards aim to spotlight women who expand farm productivity and food processing. Many also build strong business models in rural and urban markets. Agriculture remains a key sector in many African economies. Therefore, these entrepreneurs support food security, create jobs and strengthen regional trade.

VALUE4HER programme driving inclusion

The WAYA awards are part of AGRA’s VALUE4HER programme. This platform supports women-led agribusiness across Africa. It helps entrepreneurs reach markets, networks and financing opportunities. Thousands of women have already joined the platform and benefit from mentorship and training.

The programme also provides a digital marketplace for agribusiness owners. Through this system, women entrepreneurs connect with buyers and partners. Previous editions show that female agripreneurs play a growing role in Africa’s food sector. Many have introduced climate-smart farming, food processing solutions and digital agriculture tools.

Awards supporting agribusiness innovation

The Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards recognise achievements in several categories. These include young female agripreneurs and agri-technology innovators. Other categories highlight value-adding enterprises across food systems. The programme also honours women who support communities through agribusiness.

Finalists often represent many African countries. This reflects the diversity of the continent’s agricultural sector. Winners receive grant funding and international visibility. They also connect with investors, policymakers and development partners at major agricultural forums.

Growing economic impact of women in agriculture

Women represent a large share of Africa’s agricultural workforce. However, many still face limits in access to land, credit and technology. Programmes such as VALUE4HER aim to close these gaps. They support women-led enterprises and help them enter regional markets.

Experts note that stronger support for female agripreneurs can boost economic growth. Women-led businesses often work closely with smallholder farmers. They also invest in local supply chains and value-added processing. As a result, these enterprises strengthen the competitiveness of African food products and support long-term agricultural transformation.

The post AGRA opens 2026 WAYA awards for women agripreneurs appeared first on FurtherAfrica.