The top 12 agrifood entrepreneurs from 11 African countries are set to compete in the finals of the $160,000 GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition at the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) in Kigali, Rwanda. These young innovators, aged 18-35, have emerged as leaders in Africa’s agrifood sector, showcasing exceptional creativity and a forward-thinking approach to sustainable agriculture.
Chosen from nearly 2,000 applicants across the continent, these trailblazers will present their innovative ventures live on stage at the GoGettaz Africa Finals in early September. The event, part of the annual AFS Forum, offers them significant exposure and networking opportunities with global industry leaders, potential investors, and policymakers in the agriculture and food sector.
Two of these entrepreneurs will walk away with Grand Prizes of $50,000 each, while others will compete for GoGettaz Impact Awards totaling $60,000. The finalists’ ventures demonstrate innovative approaches to enhancing rural livelihoods, responsible water usage, minimizing post-harvest loss, and creatively addressing agricultural waste. These businesses are not only profitable but also have a positive impact on communities and the environment.
GoGettaz, co-founded by Svein Tore Holsether, President and CEO of Yara International, and Strive Masiyiwa, Founder and Chairman of Econet Group, is committed to investing in the next generation of agrifood innovators. Holsether emphasized the significance of these young entrepreneurs, stating, “The passion and innovations demonstrated by these young entrepreneurs are truly inspiring. Africa needs impact-leaders in the food system.”
Masiyiwa added, “This is what Africa’s future looks like, and it is a bright future. The innovative products, business models, and groundbreaking technologies being developed today by our GoGettaz entrepreneurs are amazing. Not only are our young business leaders working to launch and grow profitable ventures that create good jobs and prosperity across Africa’s agrifood sector; many are also tackling climate and development challenges that have perplexed global experts for years.”
The GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition plays a crucial role in shaping a more prosperous, productive, and environmentally friendly future for African agriculture, empowering young entrepreneurs to lead the charge.
