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As we commemorate International Women’s Day, it’s important to spotlight the incredible women-led organizations that are transforming the African food industry. These trailblazers are not only nourishing the continent but also empowering communities, fostering sustainable practices, and reshaping global narratives about African cuisine.
The African Women in Agribusiness Network (AWAB)
They stand as a beacon of hope, addressing challenges in food security and identifying opportunities for women in the agricultural sector. This initiative is led by Graça Machel Trust, a Pan-African advocacy organisation focused on child health and nutrition, education, women’s economic and financial empowerment, leadership and good governance.
This ambitious network advocates for initiatives that enhance women’s competitiveness in local and global markets, fostering market linkages, and providing access to resources, knowledge, and training.
One of AWAB’s groundbreaking projects is the Food Basket Project, an innovative, sustainable, and home-grown solution to resolve one of Africa’s most pressing concerns – quality seed production.
This inclusive business model benefits women from diverse backgrounds, encompassing three phases: pre-production, production, and post-production. As Grace Mijiga Mhango, the AWAB Malawi representative, eloquently stated, “The Food Basket Project will put food on tables and money in women’s pockets.”
African Food Changemakers (Empowering Changemakers)
African Food Changemakers (AFC) is another organization that deserves recognition for its unwavering commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises – the lifeblood of Africa’s food ecosystem. AFC believes that these enterprises, driven by visionary, dynamic, and innovative entrepreneurs, are the driving force behind the continent’s culinary renaissance.
Through the AFC Hub, African entrepreneurs receive funding, training, visibility, market linkages, and a community of support to scale their businesses successfully.
AFC also recognizes the power of food in changing narratives, and they are dedicated to celebrating Africa’s contributions to the global food ecosystem, showing innovations, amplifying proudly African food and beverage brands, and ensuring that more people globally experience the diversity and richness of the continent’s gastronomic heritage and exciting future.
One of AFC’s flagship programs is the Leading African Women in Food Fellowship (LAWFF), which seeks out exceptional women shaping the future of food in Africa. This incredible fellowship empowers disruptors, enablers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, chefs, trendsetters, and storytellers in the African food ecosystem, offering six months of intensive training, mentorship, a robust community of support, and unmatched visibility to showcase their achievements on a global stage.
Bountifield International (Combatting Food Loss and Empowering Rural Women)
Bountifield International is another organization that deserves recognition for its efforts in creating opportunities across Africa for rural entrepreneurs. By providing tools and services to efficiently process, save, and sell more food, Bountifield tackles the alarming issue of post-harvest food loss, which accounts for up to 50% of food produced in sub-Saharan Africa.
Recognizing the intrinsic link between climate, hunger, and poverty, Bountifield equips rural entrepreneurs and farmers with the right tools to decrease food loss, improve output, and increase local food supply, leading to stronger food security in their communities and beyond.
One of Bountifield’s pioneering initiatives is the “She Feeds Africa” program, which aims to create a network of women-owned postharvest businesses to make mechanized processing equipment accessible to rural women farmers.
In partnership with the Cereal Growers Association (CGA), Bountifield has identified and onboarded 10 new women entrepreneurs, providing them with a bootcamp training to teach them the essentials of running a profitable postharvest processing business.
The Power of Women-Led Solutions
These remarkable organizations are addressing the pressing challenges of food security and sustainable agriculture and empowering women to take the lead in shaping Africa’s food systems.
By providing access to resources, training, market linkages, and support networks, these organizations are making known the potential of women entrepreneurs, farmers, and changemakers across the continent.
Moreover, their efforts extend beyond food production and distribution. They are also reshaping narratives, celebrating African culinary traditions, and ensuring that the world experiences the richness and diversity of African cuisine.
Through their initiatives, these organizations are paving the way for a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient food future for Africa and the world.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us honor and amplify the voices of these extraordinary organizations. Their tireless efforts, innovative solutions, and unwavering commitment to empowering women in the food industry are catalyzing positive change and inspiring generations to come.
Together, we can continue to support and uplift these remarkable women, ensuring that their impact resonates across the globe and that their stories serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all those striving to create a better, more nourishing world.
