See the Winners of the GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize

In a remarkable recognition of innovation within the African agrifood sector, two emerging entrepreneurs were honored with the esteemed GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition Grand Prizes at the Africa Food Systems Forum 2024, held last Friday in Kigali. During the eagerly awaited Youth Town Hall event, the GoGettaz judges awarded Fatima El Khou, Founder, CEO, and Head of Research & Innovation at Jafife (Morocco), alongside Dr. Iddi Mohammed Faried, Co-founder and CEO of Kodu Technology (Ghana), each receiving $50,000 for their pioneering contributions to agriculture.

Fatima El Khou’s enterprise, Jafife (https://Jafife.ma/), is transforming the agri-food supply chain in Morocco through the use of digitalized solar-powered technology that converts crops and seafood into durable dried food products, preserving their nutritional value and quality. By harnessing renewable energy, Jafife’s offerings, including food products and natural dyes, provide environmentally friendly solutions across various industries while empowering local producers.

Dr. Iddi Mohammed Faried’s venture, Kodu Technology (https://KoduTechnology.com/), has introduced a scientific advancement in Ghana that converts banana and plantain fibers into sustainable sanitary pads for women, tackling health and hygiene issues. Kodu Technology’s innovation not only offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional menstrual products, aiming to eliminate “period poverty” in rural areas, but also bolsters local agriculture and contributes to the circular economy by utilizing agricultural waste.

“These young agripreneurs exemplify that Africa is already implementing solutions for food systems transformation,” stated Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA. “Their passion, ingenuity, and dedication to establishing sustainable agribusinesses are precisely what is needed to foster enduring change across the continent. It is truly inspiring to witness such transformative concepts come to fruition.”

• In addition to the grand prizes, four young entrepreneurs were each awarded a $15,000 Impact Award, recognizing their transformative contributions across critical areas including rural livelihoods, technology, job creation, improving rural livelihoods, natural resource use, climate resilience, nutrition, youth and women’s empowerment. The 2024 GoGettaz Impact Award winners are:

• Charles Oyamo – Rethread Africa (https://Rethread.Africa/), Kenya, Technology Impact Prize.  Rethread Africa converts agricultural waste from smallholder farmers into sustainable bioplastics, providing eco-friendly materials for various industries. Rethread’s technology reduces the reliance on synthetic materials and increases farmers’ income without additional labour, promoting sustainable agriculture.

• Tisya Mukuna, La BOITE (www.La-Kinoise.com), DR Congo – Job Creation and Improving Rural Livelihoods Impact Prize.  La BOITE produces La Kinoise coffee, cultivated and transformed entirely in Kinshasa, managing the entire value chain from plantation to processing. By reviving abandoned coffee plantations and supporting local cooperatives, La Boite improves agricultural practices and create economic opportunities through its “One Cart, One Job” program.

• Salimata Toh, AGRIBANANA (https://AGRIBANANA.net/), Côte d’Ivoire – Resource Use and Climate Impact Prize. AGRIBANANA transforms banana plant waste into eco-friendly products like natural fibres, paper pulp, and biodegradable packaging. Agribanana’s patented process adds value to agricultural waste, promoting sustainable consumption and reducing environmental impact.

• Riantsoa Mialinarindra, Sakafo Madagascar (www.Sakafo-Madagascar.com) – Job Creation, Nutrition and Gender Impact Prize. Sakafo Madagascar processes fruits and vegetables grown by small-scale farmers into traceable, nutritious food products. Safako’s holistic ecosystem supports sustainable farming practices, reduces post-harvest loss, and promotes a circular economy with composting and clean energy initiatives in Madagascar.

Additionally, each of the remaining 6 finalists received a GoGettaz “Young Catalyst Award” of $1,000 each, recognizing their excellence and catalytic contributions to grow, transform, and positively impact Africa’s agrifood systems:

• Deborah Nzarubara – Grecom (www.Grecom-RDC.com), DR Congo. Grecom specializes in the production, sale, and transformation of beekeeping products using its NYUKI TECH platform. Grecom’s platform enables apiculturists to track and manage its hives remotely, ensuring optimal production and bee health, while connecting small producers to market information and customers.

• Arristine Mendes – SHADDAÏ Aquaculture (https://apo-opa.co/47mUmzf), Senegal. SHADDAÏ Aquaculture produces fish feed without fish meal, using alternative protein sources and lysis technology for digestibility. This innovation protects the environment by reducing overfishing while providing high-quality feed to support sustainable aquaculture.

• Mogale Maleka – Agang Bokamoso Farms (AB Farms) (https://ABFarms.co.za/), South Africa.  AB Farms’ patented vertical hydroponic system operates efficiently during water and power shortages, using 90% less water and 10 times less land than traditional farming. AB Farms’ vertical farming system enables farmers to produce nutritious crops that are virtually pesticide free, in urban areas, on degraded land, or in areas with poor soil conditions.

• Bruk Getahun – ChipChip (https://ChipChip.social/), Ethiopia. ChipChip.Social uses an innovative “group buying” model to provide affordable, quality food to urban families while empowering farmers. ChipChip’s platform aggregates demand, reducing logistics costs and offering consumers wholesale prices, which are at least 20% lower than market rates.

• Mohamed Amine Bensalem – Hayat Technology, Tunisia. Hayat Technology’s GrowIt system uses AI-driven sensors and real-time data analysis to optimize water usage and enhance crop management. This advanced irrigation technology is accessible and affordable for farmers, improving productivity and sustainability.

• Mostafa Hassanen – Plug’n’Grow (www.PlugNGrow.me), Egypt. Plug’n’Grow specializes in hydroponic and aquaculture solutions, enabling growers to produce premium quality crops with minimal resources. Plug’n’Grow’s systems reduce capital and operational costs by 70% compared to traditional methods, optimizing resource efficiency and crop yields.

The esteemed judges panel for 2024 consisted of GoGettaz partners and experts from across the African continent. The judges were:

• Ada Osakwe (Founder & CEO, Agrolay Ventures, AGRA Board Member, GoGettaz Lead Judge) Nigeria
• Fina Kayisanabo (Private Sector Development Team Lead, USAID) Rwanda
• Jane Baldwin (Head of Agrifood Systems, Pan African Programs, Mastercard Foundation) Canada
• Luis Alfredo Pérez (Senior Vice President Africa, Yara International) Guatemala
• Nana Amoah (Director of Gender, Youth, and Inclusiveness for AGRA) Ghana
• Tchegoun Koba (Global Technical Advisor for Youth Employment & Entrepreneurship, SNV) Senegal

The finale of the 2024 GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize commenced this year with remarks from past GoGettaz winners, alongside motivational words from Ms. Solange Tetero, the Director General of Youth Empowerment within the Ministry of Youth and Arts, Government of Rwanda. The event featured entertainment by young dancers from the Sherrie Silver Foundation in Rwanda.

This year, GoGettaz broadened its scope, placing emphasis on underrepresented Francophone regions and promoting innovations that tackle climate-related challenges and solutions. The campaign’s success was reflected in the heightened participation and diversity among the finalists, who represented 11 African nations. For further details, please refer to this year’s Top-12 Deal Book: https://apo-opa.co/3XmxjA8

Amath Pathe Sene, Managing Director of the Africa Food Systems Forum, underscored the significance of youth-led initiatives. “The future of Africa’s food systems is dependent on its young entrepreneurs. Their ideas are not merely innovative; they are essential.”

Strive Masiyiwa, Founder and Chairman of Econet Group and co-founder of GoGettaz Africa, addressed the packed audience at the Youth Dome event just prior to the Top-12 finalists presenting their 3-minute pitches, followed by a five-minute questioning session from the GoGettaz expert judging panel. In his remarks, he stated:

“It is truly impressive to witness the vast number of African entrepreneurs who are developing solutions across numerous African countries,” he remarked. “To all participants, and I’m not solely referring to the finalists, I have consistently maintained that (GoGettaz) is an award where every participant is a winner, because ultimately, while we can present you with an award, it is not the ultimate goal.”

The objective is to establish African enterprises that generate employment, possess the potential for scalability, and address genuine challenges while contributing to the prosperity of nations, he stated. “Every participant is a victor, not solely the finalists, as you demonstrate confidence, capability, and the initiative to create a business. Acknowledge your efforts and celebrate your team for their participation… because entrepreneurs persistently strive until they achieve success.”

To this year’s finalists, I express my pride in your accomplishments. I have reviewed the lists and monitored the reports. To the winners: Congratulations. Africa appreciates your efforts. I extend my gratitude,” he concluded.

Svein Tore Holsether, President and CEO of Yara International and co-founder of GoGettaz, highlighted the importance of innovation led by youth in tackling food security issues. “These young entrepreneurs are revolutionizing food systems with courageous and creative solutions. Their influence will extend well beyond the borders of Africa.”

This year witnessed a notable rise in female participation, marking a significant achievement in a sector frequently dominated by men. Countries such as Morocco, DRC, and Côte d’Ivoire experienced an increase in representation, underscoring the inclusivity and extensive regional impact of the 2024 GoGettaz annual campaign and competition.

As the 2024 GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition comes to a close, GoGettaz and its partners recognized the resilience, creativity, and leadership exhibited by Africa’s young agripreneurs. With an expanding network of innovators, the emphasis now shifts to promoting mentorship and policy development that supports youth and women in the agricultural sector.

For further information about this year’s finalists and to stay updated on future opportunities, please visit https://GoGettaz.Africa and follow our journey towards transforming African agriculture through innovation and entrepreneurship.