Mr. Tewodros Zewdie is an agricultural specialist, supply chain strategist, and policy advocate who serves as the Executive Director of the Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) and Program Manager for the Ethio-Dutch Program for Horticultural Development (EDPHD). With over 17 years of experience spanning agribusiness, perishable logistics, private sector development, and non-profit leadership—including prior roles as General Manager of the Ethiopian Horticulture Cooperative and Communications Manager for the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce—he leads strategic initiatives to boost Ethiopia's floriculture and horticulture exports, champion digital trade logistics like e-Phyto certification, and drive GlobalGAP compliance. Holding degrees in International Relations from Addis Ababa University and Logistics & Supply Chain Management from the German Foreign Trade and Logistics Academy (DAV), he frequently represents over 120 producer-exporters in high-level policy dialogue with government ministries and international trade partners.

Nokutula Zimba is a prominent Zambian agribusiness specialist, marketing professional and emerging leader in Africa's agricultural sector, with a growing influence in seed systems, agricultural trade, farmer engagement and industry development. She currently serves as Vice President of the Zambia Seed Traders Association (ZASTA), where she contributes to advancing the interests of the seed industry while advocating for a more inclusive and progressive agricultural sector. Having previously served as an Executive Committee board member from 2024, Nokutula has demonstrated a strong commitment to institutional development, youth inclusion and structural improvements within Zambia's seed industry. At the continental level, Nokutula is an active member of the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) Phytosanitary Committee, where she works alongside regional industry experts on issues relating to plant health, seed quality, regulatory frameworks and the facilitation of cross-border seed trade. Her involvement reflects her growing role in shaping conversations that influence the development and harmonisation of Africa's seed systems. Nokutula also serves as Seed Sales Manager at Good Nature Agro, where she is part of the organisation's Management Committee. In this capacity, she plays an important role in strengthening relationships with smallholder farmers, expanding market access and supporting the distribution and adoption of quality certified agricultural inputs. Her work demonstrates the critical role that effective marketing and commercial leadership can play in connecting farmers with the products and markets they need to build more productive and resilient enterprises. Beyond her organisational responsibilities, Nokutula has established herself as an advocate for regional agricultural trade and policy harmonisation. She has engaged on platforms involving COMESA, contributing to discussions around integrated regional seed trade systems and the removal of barriers that can limit the movement of agricultural inputs across borders. Her influence also extends to innovation and agricultural policy. She has represented private-sector stakeholders and Zambia at high-level platforms such as the Plant Breeding Innovation Policy Dialogue in Cape Town, contributing to discussions on the role of innovation and improved agricultural technologies in strengthening Africa's food systems. Nokutula is equally passionate about youth and women's participation in agribusiness. Through industry panels and public engagements, including the Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship launch in Lusaka, she has used her experience to encourage young people to pursue meaningful careers and entrepreneurial opportunities within agriculture. Through her combination of professional expertise, industry leadership and advocacy, Nokutula Zimba is contributing to the advancement of Zambia's seed sector while playing a growing role in shaping a more integrated, innovative and inclusive agricultural industry across Africa.

Paidamoyo Patience Chadoka is a Zimbabwean sector development practitioner, agroscientist and business leader with 16 years of technical and administrative experience in the dairy industry. She is a results-driven executive with extensive experience in leading organisations, strengthening dairy enterprises and driving sector development within Zimbabwe's complex economic environment. She has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers for more than seven years, providing strategic leadership to the organisation while supporting growth and resilience across dairy businesses of different scales. Her leadership is characterised by a strong focus on organisational development, stakeholder engagement, resource mobilisation and the implementation of development initiatives that contribute to the sustainability of Zimbabwe's dairy sector. Paidamoyo is recognised for her ability to translate technical expertise into practical sector interventions. Her work spans business development, project implementation, industry coordination and stakeholder engagement, with a particular focus on strengthening livelihoods and creating a more sustainable and inclusive agricultural sector. Her leadership extends beyond the dairy industry through a range of board and advisory responsibilities. She serves as a non-executive board member of Willdale Bricks Limited and as a board member of Agrivoice, a South African agricultural media company, as well as Agrianalysis Centre trading as AgLabs Zimbabwe. She also serves on the board of National Dairy Coop, focusing on transport and logistics, and is a member of the Zimbabwe Dairy Industry Trust and the Livestock and Meat Advisory Council. At regional level, Paidamoyo serves as Chairperson of the Southern Africa Regional Dairy Associations, providing a platform for collaboration and coordination among dairy sector stakeholders across the region. She also coordinates the National Dairy Revitalization Program and participates in various technical working groups, contributing to initiatives aimed at strengthening the dairy value chain and supporting the long-term development of the sector. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Paidamoyo is a strong advocate for gender transformation, youth inclusion, climate justice, livelihood improvement and business sustainability. She actively participates in regional and international sector engagements, contributing Zimbabwean perspectives to broader conversations on agriculture, livestock and food systems. Her contribution to the agricultural sector has been recognised through several professional accolades, including Young Agroprofessional of the Year, Best Presenter and Women in Leadership recognition. Through her combination of technical expertise, executive leadership and sector advocacy, Paidamoyo Patience Chadoka continues to make a significant contribution to the development and transformation of Zimbabwe's dairy industry.

Saymore Muwandi Professional Profile Saymore Muwandi is a Zimbabwean corporate banking professional and strategic business development leader with extensive experience in corporate and institutional banking, relationship management, structured finance and international financial transactions. He currently serves as Head of Business Development and Strategic Relationships within the Corporate & Institutional Banking division at Central Africa Building Society (CABS Bank), a leading Zimbabwean financial institution and member of the Old Mutual Group. In this role, he is responsible for driving corporate banking growth, strengthening strategic client relationships and identifying opportunities that contribute to the expansion and competitiveness of the institution's corporate banking portfolio. Under Saymore's leadership in business development and relationship management, CABS strengthened its position in the corporate banking market, growing its market presence to rank among the top five corporate banking divisions in Zimbabwe. His contribution reflects his ability to combine strategic relationship management with commercial insight and a strong understanding of the needs of corporate and institutional clients. Before joining CABS, Saymore gained valuable regional banking experience through structured assignments with Standard Chartered Bank in Zambia and Tanzania. His exposure across multiple markets strengthened his expertise in deal structuring, international trade finance and cross-border financial transactions, while providing him with a broader understanding of regional financial markets and corporate banking requirements. Throughout his career, Saymore has developed expertise across corporate finance, credit risk management, structured finance, international trade and strategic client relationship management. His professional approach is centred on developing sustainable client partnerships, identifying commercially viable opportunities and structuring financial solutions that support business growth. His experience across Zimbabwe and other African markets positions him at the intersection of finance, enterprise development and regional commerce. Through his work in corporate and institutional banking, Saymore contributes to improving access to financial solutions for businesses while supporting the development of stronger commercial relationships between financial institutions and the private sector.

Brendan Jacobs is a South African financial services executive and agribusiness leader serving as Head of Agribusiness for Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank Group. In this role, he leads the bank's national agriculture portfolio, shaping financial strategy, credit models and commercial client relationships across South Africa's agricultural sector. With extensive experience within the Standard Bank Group, Brendan has developed a strong understanding of the financial and commercial dynamics that shape the agricultural value chain. Prior to assuming responsibility for the national agribusiness portfolio, he served as Head of Client Coverage for the Free State and Northern Cape, gaining deep regional experience and building relationships across key agricultural markets. His leadership sits at the intersection of finance, agriculture and economic development. Through his work at Standard Bank, Brendan contributes to creating financial solutions that support agricultural businesses while helping the sector respond to challenges including rising input costs, logistical constraints, changing climate conditions and the need for greater resilience across the value chain. A key area of his work is supporting digital innovation within agriculture. Brendan has been closely associated with the OneFarmShare initiative, a platform designed to connect commercial farmers with surplus produce to food relief organisations and emerging markets. The initiative provides a mechanism for redirecting surplus agricultural production to areas of need while reducing food waste and creating opportunities for greater participation within the agricultural economy. Brendan is also an active contributor to industry conversations on the future of agriculture. Through engagements at major agricultural platforms such as NAMPO Harvest Day, he participates in discussions around agricultural finance, climate resilience, input costs, logistics and sustainable approaches to long-term sector development. His leadership reflects a broader commitment to using financial services as a catalyst for agricultural growth and rural economic development. By connecting capital, commercial expertise and innovative solutions with the needs of farmers and agricultural businesses, Brendan contributes to strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of South Africa's agricultural sector. Originally from Kimberley in the Northern Cape, Brendan maintains strong connections with the agricultural community and remains committed to supporting rural economic development. His combination of financial expertise, agricultural sector knowledge and strategic leadership positions him as an influential voice in South African agribusiness.

Zama Sangweni is a South African Agricultural Economist and Specialist at Absa AgriBusiness, where she brings together economic analysis, agricultural intelligence, and market insight to support a deeper understanding of the forces shaping Africa’s agribusiness sector. Since joining Absa AgriBusiness in March 2023, Sangweni has established herself as a credible voice on macroeconomic developments, commodity markets, international trade, climate trends, and their implications for agriculture. Her work is particularly valuable in translating complex economic and global market developments into practical insights for stakeholders across the agricultural value chain. A key contribution to her professional portfolio is her role as a co-author of the award-winning *AgriTrends* publication, which examines major developments influencing the agricultural sector, including big data, international trade shifts, and environmental, social and governance trends. Through this work, she contributes to strengthening evidence-based decision-making and improving understanding of the risks and opportunities facing modern agriculture. Sangweni has also become an increasingly visible contributor to agricultural discourse through media engagements and public speaking. She has featured on platforms including Food For Mzansi and *Farmer’s Weekly*, where she has unpacked complex issues such as global supply chain disruptions, commodity market dynamics, climate variability, and the effects of El Niño on South African agriculture. Her ability to communicate technical economic issues in an accessible and relevant manner has strengthened her influence beyond the financial services sector. Her career reflects a progressive journey across agribusiness, finance, and agricultural economics. Prior to joining Absa, she gained commercial experience at BerryWorld South Africa and also worked in financial advisory services at Old Mutual. These experiences have contributed to her understanding of both the commercial realities of agriculture and the financial considerations that influence investment and business decisions across the sector. Sangweni holds a Master of Commerce in Agricultural Economics and a Bachelor of Commerce in Agribusiness Management from the University of Pretoria. Her combination of academic training, commercial experience, economic expertise, and industry engagement positions her as an emerging leader in African agricultural economics. As a respected young voice in the sector, Sangweni continues to contribute to conversations around the future of agriculture, economic resilience, climate risk, and the transformation of African agribusiness. Her growing profile as a speaker and commentator reflects the relevance of her expertise at a time when agricultural businesses are navigating increasingly complex economic, environmental, and global market conditions.

Kevin Buzuzi is a banker whose career has been defined by one clear theme: assisting customers in various productive sectors, including agriculture, to find value through financial solutions. Over the years, Kevin Buzuzi has specialized in offering credit and advisory models for farming communities—especially where tobacco and other cash crops serve as the main source of household income. Rather than treating these sectors as “niche” markets, Kevin has approached them as engines of local employment, resilience, and long-term development. Key milestones include establishing partnerships with local cooperatives and off-takers, creating transparent credit assessment processes for small operators, and coordinating services that link farmers to buyers, tools, and logistics.

Helen Magaya Professional Profile Helen Magaya is a Zimbabwean commercial banking and financial services professional with around 14 years of experience in corporate and SME banking, relationship management, business development and financial inclusion. Based in Harare, she currently serves as a Commercial Banking Relationship Manager at First Capital Bank Zimbabwe, where she supports businesses through tailored financial solutions and strategic client relationships. Her professional work is focused on helping businesses navigate their financial needs while strengthening relationships between financial institutions and the entrepreneurs they serve. Through her experience in commercial banking, Helen has developed a strong understanding of the financial challenges faced by businesses and the importance of appropriate financial planning, access to capital and informed decision-making. A significant area of Helen's professional interest is financial inclusion. She has actively advocated for greater financial literacy, highlighting the importance of equipping entrepreneurs and individuals with the knowledge required to make informed decisions around financing, investment and business growth. Helen has also demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs. Through her professional engagements, she has highlighted some of the barriers facing women in business and advocated for greater access to financial opportunities and support systems that enable women-led enterprises to grow. Her professional performance has earned recognition, including an Outstanding Performance Award, reflecting her contribution and effectiveness within the banking environment. She has also been selected as a delegate for the World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026, further demonstrating her engagement with broader conversations around economic development, inclusion and entrepreneurship. In addition to her banking career, Helen has demonstrated entrepreneurial interests, having been listed among Zimbabwean beneficiaries of the Tony Elumelu Foundation's 2025 Entrepreneurship Programme under the manufacturing sector. Helen's career reflects a commitment to using financial services as a tool for enterprise development and economic participation. Through commercial banking, financial education and advocacy for women entrepreneurs, she contributes to creating an environment in which businesses can access the knowledge, relationships and financial support required to achieve sustainable growth.

Oscar Pazvakavambwa is a Zimbabwean finance professional and agricultural economist with experience spanning development finance, agribusiness economics, agricultural lending, credit management and corporate banking. Based in Harare, he currently serves as a Relationship Manager at CBZ Bank Limited, where he works within the financial services sector supporting clients and businesses through banking and financing solutions. With an academic foundation in Agricultural Economics, Oscar has developed a specialised understanding of the relationship between agriculture and financial services. His experience in lending and agri-financing enables him to assess the financial needs of agricultural enterprises while considering the operational and commercial realities of the sector. Oscar holds a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Zimbabwe, a Master's Degree in Development Finance from Great Zimbabwe University and an Executive Certificate in Credit Management from the University of Zimbabwe. This combination of agricultural economics, development finance and credit management has equipped him with a multidisciplinary perspective on financing agricultural and corporate enterprises. Throughout his career, Oscar has developed expertise in banking, client relationship management, credit management, agricultural financing and corporate banking. His work involves engaging with clients, assessing financing requirements and supporting lending decisions within a structured financial-services environment. His professional focus is particularly relevant to the development of Zimbabwe's agricultural sector, where access to appropriate finance remains critical to the growth of farmers, agribusinesses and agricultural value chains. By combining technical knowledge of agriculture with financial-sector expertise, Oscar contributes to bridging the gap between agricultural businesses and formal financial services. Oscar's career reflects the growing importance of professionals who understand both agriculture and finance. His experience in agricultural economics and development finance positions him to contribute to more effective financing approaches that support enterprise growth, investment and sustainable development within Zimbabwe's agricultural economy.

Sulaimon Quadri Dolapo is a Computer Scientist, software developer and entrepreneur passionate about technology, agriculture and innovation. He is the Founder and CEO of DonsFarm, an agritech company helping farmers access livestock inputs, farm-management tools and AI-powered support through DONRA. He combines technical skills with hands-on agricultural experience to build practical solutions for farmers.

Clement Kenneth Taonani is an award-winning Malawian agribusiness entrepreneur, livestock breeder, agricultural trainer, and founder of Nthawi Farms. Originally trained as a nurse, he transitioned into commercial agriculture and has built a diversified farming enterprise specializing in cattle production, piggery, horticulture, poultry, and farmer capacity development. Recognized nationally and internationally for his contributions to agriculture, innovation, and youth empowerment, Clement is passionate about transforming agriculture into a tool for economic growth, job creation, food security, and sustainable development. Through Nthawi Farms, he actively trains and mentors aspiring farmers, promotes improved livestock genetics and advocates for youth participation in agribusiness.

Tenson Sinaiti is a dedicated agribusiness entrepreneur, agricultural consultant, and farmer committed to advancing agricultural productivity and rural enterprise development in Zimbabwe. As the driving force behind Mr Mbambaira Investments, Sinaiti has built a reputation for empowering farmers through practical farming solutions, professional consultancy services, and agribusiness mentorship. Founded in 2009 in Darwendale, Mr Mbambaira Investments has steadily grown into a recognized agricultural enterprise operating from Samelevy Farm in Zvimba District, Mashonaland West Province. Under Sinaiti’s leadership, the company specializes in farming consultancy, the supply of quality sweet potato seed, agricultural produce, and support services for emerging agribusiness entrepreneurs. Driven by a vision to transform small scale farming into profitable commercial ventures, Sinaiti has worked extensively with farmers to improve productivity, strengthen market access, and promote climate-resilient agricultural practices. His approach combines technical agronomic expertise with practical, hands-on support to help farming communities build sustainable and resilient livelihoods. Through training initiatives and farmer support programs, he has contributed to strengthening agricultural value chains while promoting food security and economic growth in Zimbabwe. His commitment to innovation, farmer empowerment, and agricultural development has earned Mr Mbambaira Investments recognition among the country’s leading contributors agricultural production improvement. to Tenson Sinaiti continues to champion sustainable agriculture and agribusiness development, with a strong focus on creating opportunities for farmers and supporting the growth of Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector

Ithuba Agribusiness is a community-focused agricultural development initiative and training entity in South Africa founded by Thabani Ngubane. It focuses on food production innovation, youth and school garden projects (such as partnering with training programs like Seedprenuers), and offering accredited short courses in crop preparation.

Sharon Monethi is an internationally acclaimed agricultural innovator, social entrepreneur, and champion for grassroots food security. She is the Founder of the Woman of Age Foundation, creator of the revolutionary HydroCoop initiative, and serves as the Co-Chairperson of the Women and Food Fellowship for African NGO Leaders. In these roles, Sharon spearheads climate-smart agricultural solutions designed to eradicate hunger and empower marginalized African communities. She specializes in deploying highly productive, space-saving smart farming systems that decouple food production from traditional land barriers, creating sustainable local livelihoods for rural women, youth, and vulnerable populations. Throughout her career, she has seamlessly bridged the gap between high-level international policy and grassroots execution. On the global stage, she collaborates directly with the United Nations Women's Major Groups, the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development, and the World Bank Group to shape gender-responsive climate and agricultural strategies. A globally recognized trailblazer in the agribusiness landscape, her transformational leadership has earned her prestigious accolades, including the Women for Zero Hunger Global Award and the TIAW World of Difference Award. Sharon’s career is dedicated to driving economic autonomy, securing women's land rights, and building resilient, technology-driven food systems that scale community development across the African continent.

An agro-entreprenuer and agricultural consultant who serves as a key professional behind the founding of Busiro Horticulture Best Foods. He manages operations and strategic direction for Busiro Horticulture Best Foods, promoting scalable, efficient food production systems across Africa. He is a strong proponent of developing local agricultural value chains and cold-storage infrastructure to prevent post-harvest food waste. His consultancy focuses heavily on mapping the Tomato Paradox in African businesses, where raw produce is exported or lost due to poor infrastructure while processed alternatives like tomato paste are heavily imported.

I am Wubishet Wudasie the Founder and CEO of Dot Com Agrilife Service, an Ethiopian agribusiness consultancy dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture through innovative advisory and project management solutions. With over 12 years of professional experience, I specializes in agribusiness development, agricultural engineering, project management, value chain development, business planning, proposal development, capacity building, and monitoring and evaluation. I have a Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, a Bachelor's degree in Automotive Technology, and a Master's degree in Project Management. Through Dot Com Agrilife Service, I supported farmers, agribusiness enterprises, development organizations, and public institutions by delivering practical, evidence-based consulting services that improve productivity, strengthen market linkages, and promote sustainable agricultural growth. My vision is to build a resilient, competitive, and inclusive agribusiness sector in Ethiopia and across Africa through professional consultancy, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Kwezi Agribusiness is a Zimbabwe-based agricultural consultancy providing integrated advisory services to farm owners and agribusiness operators, with a focus on land use planning, business plan development, financial modelling, strategy, and business process optimisation. The consultancy works across Zimbabwe,D.R. Congo, Zambia and South Africa delivering farm planning and enterprise development services spanning cattle breeding and management — including Boran genetics and timed artificial insemination (TAI) programmes — commercial piggery operations, indigenous poultry production, and crop enterprise planning. Kwezi’s advisory reports combine agronomic, ecological, and operational analysis, covering soils, water resources, grazing capacity, disease risk, labour, and market access, with sound financial projections and business planning to give clients a grounded, implementation-ready roadmap for their operations. Beyond consultancy, Kwezi operates its own commercial piggery and Stud Breeding in Harare and Chegutu respectively, giving the practice direct, hands-on operational insight into feed formulation, sow management, and production economics that feeds back into its client advisory work. Kwezi Agribusiness is committed to strengthening Zimbabwean agriculture through practical, locally grounded consultancy that bridges technical agricultural expertise with sound business strategy, helping clients build resilient, profitable, and well-run farming enterprises.

SELAMAWIT FIRDISSA DURESA Founder & Lead Consultant | SF Consulting PLC Senior Gender, Youth, and Inclusion Specialist Selamawit Firdissa Duresa is the Founder and Lead Consultant of SF Consulting PLC, bringing over 20 years of high-impact experience as a Senior Gender, Youth, and Inclusion Specialist in agricultural transformation, climate-smart horticulture, seed systems, and rural development across Ethiopia. Holding an MA in Gender Studies from Addis Ababa University, she has served as a strategic technical advisor for high-profile initiatives funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, UN Women, USAID, the World Vegetable Center, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the World Bank. Currently, Selamawit is leading the gender analysis for the Gates Foundation-funded Accelerating Climate-Smart Horticulture in Ethiopia (ACT-H/ACE) project, driving gender-responsive research, field methodologies, and financial inclusion frameworks to ensure sustainable agricultural investments directly empower small-scale producers. Throughout her career at the Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT, and the BENEFIT Partnership, she has driven systemic transformation for thousands of women and youth farmers by pioneering inclusive value-chain strategies, digital advisory tools, and direct economic empowerment initiatives.

Anita Singini is an inspiring farmer and agricultural entrepreneur based between the United Kingdom and Malawi. She is widely recognised for establishing one of the first commercial apple farms in Malawi, helping to change perceptions about the possibility and potential of apple farming in the country. Through her dedication, innovation, and determination, Anita has demonstrated that apples can be successfully grown in Malawi, opening new opportunities for local farmers and contributing to agricultural diversification. She is currently focused on producing high-quality apple seedlings to supply farmers across Malawi, supporting the growth of the country's emerging apple industry. In addition to apple farming, Anita is actively involved in livestock production and the cultivation of various crops. Her passion for agriculture extends beyond her own farm, as she is committed to sharing knowledge, encouraging sustainable farming practices, and inspiring the next generation of farmers. Anita's journey is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and perseverance. Through her work, she continues to make a significant contribution to Malawi's agricultural sector while encouraging others to explore new possibilities in farming.

Farmerbae (Tanya Pikirai) is a rapidly growing Zimbabwean agribusiness content creator and livestock farmer whose digital content consistently attracts high engagement while educating both young and older generations on modern farming practices. Through authentic storytelling, practical demonstrations, and insightful agricultural content, she has made farming more accessible, relatable, and inspiring to thousands of people. Her ability to blend education with engaging content has positioned her as one of the fastest-rising voices in Zimbabwe’s agribusiness space and a true force to be reckoned with in digital agricultural education.

and agribusiness platform dedicated to educating, inspiring, and empowering farmers through practical, experience-based knowledge. By creating accessible educational content, providing technical consultancy, and promoting innovation in agriculture, the platform helps both aspiring and established farmers improve productivity, profitability, and sustainable farming practices.

Blessing Sadiki, also known online as Angelalee Sadiki, is a South African commercial farmer, greenhouse farming innovator, agripreneur, and digital creator who is redefining how modern agriculture is perceived by a new generation. Through her work in greenhouse farming, Sadiki has built an agricultural enterprise focused on the production of fresh vegetables, including green peppers and cabbages. Her approach demonstrates how technology, commercial thinking, resilience, and practical farming knowledge can be combined to build a viable modern agricultural business. Beyond her work on the farm, Sadiki has established a significant digital platform through which she documents her farming journey from seed to harvest. With more than 250,000 followers on Facebook and an active presence on TikTok, she has developed a powerful audience around authentic agricultural storytelling. Her content captures both the rewards and realities of farming, from successful harvests and business growth to extreme weather, pest challenges, long working hours, and the setbacks that farmers experience. This authenticity has become a defining feature of her influence. Rather than presenting agriculture as an easy or idealised profession, Sadiki demonstrates the discipline, persistence, and commercial commitment required to succeed in farming. Her approach has helped make agriculture more relatable and accessible to audiences who may previously have viewed farming as a traditional or low-technology occupation. Sadiki is also an advocate for youth participation in agriculture. Through her digital platforms, she encourages young people to view farming as a professional business opportunity and highlights the role that modern production systems, particularly greenhouse farming, can play in increasing productivity and commercial viability. Her influence extends into practical agricultural mentorship. She engages her audience around questions of land access, limited startup capital, crop selection, production, marketing, and the realities of running an agricultural enterprise. She also encourages agricultural students and graduates to use her platforms as sources of practical career insight, industry exposure, and networking. By combining commercial farming with digital education and storytelling, Blessing Sadiki has created a distinctive platform at the intersection of agriculture, entrepreneurship, technology, and youth empowerment. Her growing influence demonstrates the power of digital media to change perceptions of farming while inspiring more young Africans to consider agriculture as a serious pathway for entrepreneurship and economic participation.

I am Ibtissem Sendi, Founder and Director of CBS Training and Coaching Center, a vocational training and capacity-building organization based in Tunisia. With over eight years of experience in training, entrepreneurship support, and community development, I have dedicated my work to empowering youth, women, and aspiring entrepreneurs through skills development, coaching, and employment-oriented training programs. My expertise includes vocational training management, project development, entrepreneurship support, green skills promotion, and stakeholder engagement. I have established strategic partnerships with public institutions, civil society organizations, and agricultural training centers to strengthen local capacities and promote sustainable development. Through CBS, I have led numerous training initiatives focused on employability, entrepreneurship, social inclusion, and sustainable livelihoods, contributing to positive social and economic impact within local communities. I am also actively involved in regional and international programs that support innovation, leadership, and sustainable development across Africa and the Mediterranean region.

My name is Tesfay Abraha Hailemariam I have graduate from Aksum university from the department of Agricultural economics in Agribusiness and value chain management and now I'm trainer of Agribusiness in shire polytechnique Agricultural TVET College and also I have work experience over 15 years as trainer and Business Development service counselor and also I have working in providing training for entrepreneurs as Enterpreneurship business Development skills and creating and transferring new technology to Beneficiary and small micro enterprise.

Lidel Kelly Toh is an impact investment and inclusive business leader with over a decade of experience building and scaling agribusiness and climate-smart enterprises across Africa. He specializes in structuring investment-ready ventures, mobilizing capital, and connecting high-growth SMEs with global investors and development finance institutions. As Founder and CEO of NALDCCAM, Lidel leads the development of an integrated agro-industrial ecosystem focused on cassava value chains, circular bioeconomy systems, and renewable energy solutions. His work transforms smallholder agriculture into scalable industrial opportunities while advancing sustainable livelihoods and climate resilience. He also serves as Executive Director of Global Chamber Yaoundé, where he facilitates international trade, investment partnerships, and cross-border market access for African enterprises across more than 500 global metropolitan markets. His expertise spans impact investing and blended finance, financial modelling and valuation for transactions ranging from $100K to $100M, agribusiness and value chain development, climate-smart agriculture, circular economy, investment readiness, and SME scaling. Lidel is passionate about building Africa’s next generation of investment-ready enterprises and unlocking sustainable, inclusive economic growth aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Tinashe Manzungu (born October 27, 1985) is an acclaimed Zimbabwean industrialist, pan-African infrastructure visionary and an agri-business entrepreneur. He is the co-founder and CEO of Zimbuild contracting and Zimbuild-Agro. Recognized as a pioneer in climate-smart infrastructure, Dr. Manzungu has strategically bridged the gap between construction and sustainable agriculture to drive continental food security. Core Corporate & Agribusiness PortfolioZimbuild-Agro: A vanguard agricultural division focusing on sustainable agribusiness infrastructure, smart farming technologies, and large-scale agro-processing development The entity spearheads critical irrigation projects, agricultural mechanisation hubs and green energy cold-storage solutions to reduce post-harvest losses across sub-Saharan Africa. Zimbuild Contracting: A leading regional construction powerhouse specializing in mega infrastructure. Under his leadership, the firm constructs vital dams, rural feeder roads, and commercial agro-hubs that integrate smallholder farmers into mainstream value chains. Agribusiness Advocate: Dr. Manzungu utilizes his platform as the Co-Chair of the Infrastructure Sub-Committee on the Africa Business Council to champion trans-border trade corridors, harmonizing logistical networks to accelerate the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agricultural goals. Socio-Economic Impact Mastermind: He developed inclusive business models within Zimbuild-Agro that empower over 200 communal farmers through contract farming schemes, skills transfer, and guaranteed market off-take arrangements.Institutional Governance and Board.

Kennedy is a strategic seed systems and product management leader with more than 20 years of experience translating agricultural research and innovation into market-ready, sustainable solutions across East and Southern Africa. His expertise sits at the intersection of plant breeding, variety improvement, seed systems development and agribusiness. Throughout his career, he has focused on developing and managing seed product portfolios, advancing breeding pipelines, strengthening quality management systems and ensuring that research outputs are aligned with market demand, regulatory requirements and the practical needs of farmers. Kennedy has worked extensively across the agricultural value chain, collaborating with governments, regulatory agencies, research institutions, NGOs, donors, development partners, private seed companies, farmer cooperatives and smallholder farmers. These partnerships have enabled him to support the adoption of improved varieties while contributing to stronger national and regional seed systems. His experience spans the development, release and commercialisation of seed varieties across East and Southern Africa, including wheat, rice and oat. One of his notable achievements has been increasing rice adoption from 20% to 32% through targeted product development and market-driven strategies, demonstrating his ability to connect technical innovation with commercial realities and farmer demand. Kennedy has also played an important role in strengthening breeder and foundation seed multiplication systems. His work in this area has contributed to improved seed quality, timely availability and greater reliability across the seed supply chain. In addition, he has contributed to national seed policies, standards and regulatory frameworks, helping shape the systems required for long-term development of the seed sector. His professional experience includes work with organisations such as the International Rice Research Institute, BRAC Social Enterprise, AgriBora Kenya Ltd, Western Seed Company and Kenya Seed Company, as well as national seed regulators, standards bodies and technical committees across the region. Kennedy combines technical agricultural expertise with strategic and commercial thinking. His capabilities include seed systems strengthening, product profiling and lifecycle management, plant breeding pipeline advancement, variety registration, regulatory engagement, seed demand and supply forecasting, quality management systems and ISO implementation, agribusiness strategy, market systems development, capacity building and technical training. His professional mission is centred on accelerating the transformation of African agriculture by converting research innovations into scalable, high-quality seed products that farmers trust and markets demand. Through his work, he contributes to a more resilient and market-driven African seed sector capable of delivering improved varieties, strengthening food and nutrition security and creating sustainable livelihoods for smallholder farmers.

Phathisani Vundla is the Founder and CEO of Zambezi Eco Sprouts, a Zimbabwean enterprise proving that today’s plastic waste can become tomorrow’s food system. By transforming discarded plastic into solar powered vertical farms, I am tackling three of Africa’s biggest challenges at once plastic pollution, food insecurity, and youth unemployment. My vision is to build one of Africa’s largest circular agriculture initiatives by repurposing 100,000 plastic bottles into commercial food production systems by 2028, creating green jobs while making sustainable farming accessible to communities with limited land and water

Andrew Onyebuchi Mogbolu is a Nigerian agribusiness entrepreneur and the Founder of Emetem Global Enterprise, a climate-smart agribusiness focused on improving agricultural productivity through innovative irrigation solutions. He is developing Emetem Smart Irrigation, an AI-powered platform that helps smallholder farmers optimize water use, improve crop yields, and adapt to climate change. Despite living with a hearing and speech impairment, Andrew has remained committed to creating sustainable agricultural solutions that enhance food security, empower farming communities, and contribute to Africa's agricultural transformation.

Ramatah Bah is a visionary Zambian youth ecopreneur and the CEO of CAPAMO INVESTMENT LIMITED, a women-led, circular agribusiness transforming agricultural waste into economic opportunity and climate resilience. Operating out of the strategic Kazungula/Livingstone trade corridor, Ramatah leads an innovative enterprise that addresses Zambia’s dual crisis of post-harvest loss (13–38%) and soil degradation. Under her leadership, CAPAMO manufactures high-margin, shelf-stable "Smart Sauces" and converts 100% of organic agri-waste into biochar,a soil-restoring input that sequesters carbon and boosts drought resilience for a network targeting 3,000 smallholder farmers. Demonstrating exceptional commercial discipline.

**Geoffrey Israel Kirenga – Professional Profile** Geoffrey Israel Kirenga is a highly respected Tanzanian agribusiness leader with more than three decades of experience in agricultural development, value chain transformation, and public-private partnerships. He serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT Centre Ltd.), a position he has held since 2013, where he leads initiatives aimed at transforming Tanzania's agriculture through inclusive investment, sustainable commercial farming, and smallholder farmer integration. Before joining SAGCOT, Mr. Kirenga served as the Director of the Crop Development Division in Tanzania's Ministry of Agriculture, where he played a key role in developing national crop production policies, pest management strategies, and agricultural extension programs. His expertise spans crop development, plant protection, agricultural policy, and value chain development. Mr. Kirenga holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Entomology from Imperial College, University of London. Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships across governments, development partners, research institutions, financial organizations, and the private sector, making him one of East Africa's leading voices in agricultural transformation. He is widely recognized for promoting inclusive agribusiness models that connect smallholder farmers with commercial markets, investment opportunities, and modern agricultural technologies. Under his leadership, SAGCOT has become an important platform for mobilizing investments and fostering sustainable agricultural growth in Tanzania. Mr. Kirenga also serves in governance roles, including as a Non-Executive Director of Equity Bank Tanzania, contributing his expertise to the financial sector's support for agriculture and economic development.

Afoussatou Amadou is a Beninese scientist, environmental researcher, food safety professional, and social entrepreneur working at the intersection of **agriculture, environmental sustainability, food safety, health, and innovation**. With a multidisciplinary background in microbiology, environmental health, ecotoxicology, and quality management, she combines scientific research with practical solutions to address challenges affecting food systems and communities. She is the founder of **AgriSafUp**, an initiative promoting safer, healthier, and more sustainable agriculture by connecting agricultural producers with knowledge, markets, training, and innovative digital solutions. Through this work, she seeks to strengthen food safety, empower young people and women, improve agricultural value chains, and promote environmentally responsible practices. Her professional expertise also includes **food safety management, HACCP, ISO standards, quality assurance, environmental management, and scientific research**. She is particularly interested in using science, digital technologies, and innovation to improve agricultural productivity, food safety, environmental resilience, and community well-being. Afoussatou is also engaged in youth leadership and capacity development, supporting young researchers and promoting opportunities for young people to transform scientific knowledge into practical solutions. Her work reflects a strong commitment to building more **sustainable, resilient, inclusive, and innovative African food systems**. Through her research, professional experience, and entrepreneurial initiatives, she aims to contribute to the transformation of African agriculture by bridging **science, innovation, entrepreneurship, food safety, and sustainable development**.

- Over 30 years of executive leadership across agribusiness, FMCG, oil and gas, investment promotion, public sector administration, and enterprise development. - Appointed Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Agbeyewa Farms, leading one of Africa's most ambitious large-scale cassava cultivation and agricultural transformation initiatives. - Driving the expansion of mechanized cassava farming through modern agronomic practices and irrigation systems that enable year-round production. - Appointed Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Matna Foods following its acquisition by Agbeyewa Farms in 2026, extending leadership across the entire cassava value chain. - Spearheading the development of an integrated farm-to-factory agribusiness model, linking large-scale cultivation with industrial starch processing and local value addition. - Strengthening Nigeria's cassava value chain by increasing industrial starch production, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving market access. - Previously served as Group Director of Sales at Cavista Holdings and Executive Director at Agbeyewa Farms, delivering commercial growth, operational excellence, and enhanced organizational profitability. - As Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency, attracted strategic investments, revitalized state-owned assets, and facilitated impactful public-private partnerships. - As Director-General of the Ekiti State Economic and Enterprise Development Agency, led initiatives focused on enterprise development, investment promotion, wealth creation, and employment generation. - Held senior leadership roles at Cadbury Nigeria Plc and Conoil Plc, successfully driving sales growth, strategic planning, route-to-market execution, and customer development. - Leading initiatives that have created employment opportunities and strengthened rural livelihoods through large-scale agricultural investments and community-focused development. - Championing sustainable agriculture through mechanization, technology adoption, innovation, and environmentally responsible farming practices. - Facilitating strategic collaboration among government institutions, private-sector stakeholders, investors, and development organizations to accelerate agricultural and economic development. - Recognized in 2026 as one of only eight professionals inducted as an Affiliate Member of the Ekiti Council of Elders in recognition of his leadership, integrity, and contributions to economic and community development. - Established a reputation as a transformational leader whose work advances food security, agricultural industrialization, youth empowerment, and sustainable economic growth in Nigeria and across Africa.

Deliverance Musiyiwa is a goal oriented Sales & Marketing Agronomist in Mashonaland Central Province with over three years experience in the Sales department. She specializes in providing expert technical advice, field scouting, and product recommendations while promoting, selling, and marketing Zadzamatura seeds to both commercial, small scale farmers and distributors. Deliverance successfully conducted field demonstrations to showcase product performance and efficacy. She is also responsible in developing and implementing sales strategies to achieve sales targets within the assigned territory. With the goal of achieving high sales, Deliverance monitors market trends and competitor activity within the agricultural sector as well as identifying potential new market opportunities and customer segments. Key Competencies * Identifying and developing relationships with potential and existing agricultural customers * Managing and tracking inventory, bookings, completing claims and invoices. * Training distributors and merchandisers on product knowledge and agronomic principles. * Arranging and coordinating technical and marketing activities, including field days, farmer meetings, demonstration trials and trial sites. * Developing and maintaining close customer relations with key clients by providing professional agronomic service.

It is my privilege to nominate Lloyd Tutsirai Mhlanga from Kurima Centre for the Agri-Input Retail Excellence Award in recognition of his outstanding commitment to serving farming communities through professional agri-input retailing, technical advisory services, and farmer support. Lloyd has consistently demonstrated excellence in ensuring that farmers have access to quality agricultural inputs while providing the technical knowledge required to maximize productivity. His work extends beyond selling products; he invests significant time visiting farmers in the field, diagnosing production challenges, recommending appropriate solutions, and following up to ensure successful implementation. Throughout his career, Lloyd has supported communal, A1, and commercial farmers by supplying seeds, fertilizers, crop protection products, irrigation solutions, veterinary products, and other essential agricultural inputs. His approach combines retail excellence with practical agronomic expertise, enabling farmers to make informed production decisions that improve crop health, productivity, and profitability. Lloyd is passionate about farmer education and empowerment. He regularly conducts field visits, demonstration trials, product presentations, farmer training sessions, and technical advisory programmes, helping producers adopt modern agricultural practices and maximize returns from their investments. His willingness to provide after-sales support has earned him the confidence and trust of the farming communities he serves. His commitment to outstanding customer care has already been recognised within the agricultural sector. Lloyd was honoured with the Customer Service Excellence Award by the Global Agribusiness Professionals Institute (GABPI), acknowledging his dedication to delivering exceptional service and building lasting relationships with farmers and agribusiness stakeholders. Building on this achievement, he was recently promoted to the position of Technical Sales Representative for the Mashonaland West Northern Region, a role that reflects the confidence his organisation has in his technical expertise, leadership, and ability to serve farmers across a wider geographical area. As a Technical Sales professional, Lloyd continues to bridge the gap between quality agricultural inputs and practical agronomic solutions. His ability to understand farmers' needs, recommend appropriate products, and provide continuous technical support has distinguished him as more than an agro-input retailer—he is a trusted agricultural advisor committed to improving agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. Lloyd's dedication to serving last-mile farming communities embodies the true spirit of Agri-Input Retail Excellence. His professionalism, integrity, technical competence, and unwavering commitment to farmer success continue to make a meaningful contribution to agricultural development. It is therefore my honour to strongly recommend Lloyd Tutsirai Mhlanga for the Agri-Input Retail Excellence Award, confident that his achievements and service exemplify the highest standards of excellence in agricultural input retailing. Key Achievements & Milestones

Wendy Musafu Professional Profile Wendy Musafu is a Zimbabwean agriculture professional specialising in Agriculture Informatics, precision agriculture and the application of technology to modern farming. With a degree in Agriculture Informatics from the University of Zimbabwe, she is passionate about using data, geospatial technologies and emerging agricultural tools to improve farm productivity, resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. Wendy's professional interests lie at the intersection of agriculture and technology, where data-driven insights and innovative digital tools can transform conventional farming practices. Her work focuses on identifying practical applications of technology that can improve crop management, optimise resource allocation, reduce waste and support more sustainable agricultural production. She graduated with honours in Agriculture Informatics, demonstrating strong academic performance in a field that combines agricultural science with information technology and data analysis. She has also obtained a remote pilot licence, strengthening her ability to explore and apply drone technology within agricultural operations. Wendy has developed experience in financial planning and analysis for agribusinesses, supporting agricultural enterprises in assessing financial performance, planning for growth and improving profitability. Her combination of agricultural and financial knowledge enables her to consider both the technical and commercial dimensions of agricultural decision-making. Her research and consulting experience has involved working with agricultural stakeholders to generate insights that support evidence-based decisions and improve farm operations. She has applied geospatial techniques and precision agriculture principles to areas including land-use planning, crop management and resource allocation. Wendy's technical interests also extend to the use of drones in agriculture. She has explored applications including crop monitoring, soil assessment and precision spraying, with a focus on using technology to improve the accuracy and efficiency of agricultural operations. Through precision farming approaches, she seeks to help farmers increase yields while reducing unnecessary use of agricultural inputs. Driven by innovation and sustainability, Wendy is committed to contributing to the development of smarter and more environmentally responsible agricultural systems. Her work reflects a belief that technology, when combined with sound agricultural knowledge, can help farmers make better decisions and respond to the growing demands placed on global food systems. As an emerging agriculture and technology professional, Wendy Musafu represents a new generation of African agricultural innovators who are using digital tools, geospatial intelligence and precision technologies to shape the future of farming.

Charles Ombok is a Kenyan agribusiness leader, social entrepreneur, and Founder of the Charlie Young Foundation, a community-driven organization that leverages agriculture as a tool for sustainable development and social transformation. Through initiatives in poultry farming, honey value addition, youth agribusiness training, environmental conservation, and menstrual hygiene support, he has empowered young people and vulnerable communities with skills, opportunities, and improved livelihoods. Under his leadership, the Foundation has integrated agribusiness with education support, tree planting, and community empowerment programs, creating lasting social and economic impact. Charles is passionate about building inclusive agricultural ecosystems that promote youth employment, climate resilience, and community well-being. His work demonstrates how agribusiness can be a powerful catalyst for positive social change, making him a strong candidate for the Agribusiness CSR and Social Impact Champion Award.

I am an Agricultural Resource Management professional, agribusiness advisor, and the Founder of Farmers First Consultancy Hub. I have over eight years of experience supporting smallholder farmers through climate-smart agriculture, sustainable agribusiness, digital extension services, market linkages, and capacity building. I am passionate about empowering farmers and youth with practical, innovative, and technology-driven solutions that improve productivity, resilience, and livelihoods. I actively collaborate with development partners, research institutions, and youth networks to promote sustainable food systems and inclusive agricultural transformation across Africa.

Founded and leads Prolific Innovations Limited, a Ugandan social enterprise promoting sustainable and climate-smart agriculture. - Developed Vermi Power Organic Fertilizer, transforming organic waste into affordable biofertilizer for smallholder farmers. - Recycled over 6,000 tonnes of organic waste into valuable agricultural inputs, advancing the circular economy. - Trained and supported 6,000+ smallholder farmers in sustainable farming practices and soil health management. - Created employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people through agricultural value chains. - Recognized among Africa's Best Startups (2024). - Recipient of the CIO Awards 2024 Bronze – Tech Champion in Agriculture. - Winner of the 2024 Digitally Fit Award (Kenya) for innovation in organic fertilizer. - Successfully completed leading accelerator and entrepreneurship programs, including the SAF Accelerator, Stanbic Business Incubator, and Youth4Climate.

Tesfalidet Hagos is a prominent Ethiopian agribusiness entrepreneur and executive who serves as the Founder and Managing Director of Luna Export Slaughterhouse PLC, one of Ethiopia's leading meat processors and exporters established in the early 2000s. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its operations to include livestock feed farming, animal fattening, international fresh meat exports to the Middle East, and local retail distribution through the Fresh Corner greengrocer chain (16 chains). In addition to his work at Luna, He also serves as an advisor and co-founder for international natural food ventures such as Mama's Creation Foods.

Adeyeye Adebowale is a leader who serves. Born into a modest Nigerian family without the advantages of political connections or privileged background, his journey is a testament to how resilience and hard work leads to excellence. Despite numerous opportunities to seek easier prospects abroad, he chose to stay and tackle Africa's challenges head-on, driven by his unwavering belief that agriculture is Africa’s golden goose. This belief led to the creation of successful ventures like Buy Africa Build Africa (BABA) Group, Creativo El-Matador, Elan League international, and DRIFT. These pan-African enterprises drive socio-economic development while enhancing Africa’s position in the international community. BABA Group and Creativo El-Matador, for example, have a strong presence in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and Democratic Republic of Congo, underscoring his dedication to transform Africa through agricultural business, processing, and trade. His strategic expertise in this complex ecosystem has facilitated the successful export of about 50,000 tonnes of agricultural commodities, generating over $80 million in revenue. He preaches that increasing the value of agricultural commodities before export is key for Africa's development and poverty reduction. This led him to set up the first indigenous cashew processing plant in Kano, with a workforce that is 80% women. Recognizing the crucial role of smallholder farmers, he supports them through extension programs, ensuring their products meet international standards. His latest initiative is the Women in Agricultural Technical Education and Apprenticeship project, in partnership with the French government and IITA. Beyond his business ventures, under Creativo El-Matador, he provided electricity for the host community in Kano, and in 2016, he founded the Wole Adeyeye Foundation to tackle poverty and illiteracy in Northern Nigeria. With over 5,000 beneficiaries, the charitable activities uphold beneficiaries’ dignity by building the capacities of children and youth through education and empowerment programs. He also runs Adebowale Adeyeye Football Club, which nurtures and showcases young talent, and founded TARGAM to enhance leadership and research among African students, training and mentoring many youths in Nigeria. Adebowale's efforts comprehensively address Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 13, and 16, all aimed at advancing Africa. I have seen many bright dreams fade due to adverse economic and political conditions in Africa, a situation I find deeply troubling. To drive change, I am nominating Adebowale, a visionary leader. While my words can not capture his potential, I am eager for him to share his vision and commitment to you in person.

Walter Chivasa is a Pan-African agrifood systems professional and senior agricultural development leader with more than 30 years of experience advancing agricultural transformation, food security and inclusive agrifood systems across Sub-Saharan Africa. His career has been defined by regional strategy, partnerships, resource mobilisation and organisational leadership, with extensive experience managing multi-country portfolios and developing strategies that respond to the complex challenges facing Africa's agricultural sector. He has worked across Eastern, Southern and West Africa, providing strategic leadership and supporting initiatives designed to translate scientific knowledge and research into scalable development outcomes. Walter has built strong relationships with governments, regional economic communities, development partners, CGIAR centres, research organisations and private-sector stakeholders. Through these partnerships, he has contributed to strengthening agricultural institutions, mobilising resources and creating collaborative approaches to sustainable agricultural growth. His leadership combines scientific expertise with executive and commercial management experience. He holds a PhD in Crop Science and an MBA, giving him a distinctive ability to connect agricultural science, organisational strategy and business principles in addressing food-system challenges. Throughout his career, Walter has demonstrated an ability to lead multicultural and multi-country teams, shape institutional strategies and engage stakeholders across different parts of the agricultural ecosystem. His work has involved strengthening institutions, influencing policy and creating partnerships capable of delivering lasting development impact. Walter's approach to agricultural transformation is centred on building inclusive and resilient agrifood systems that can improve food security while creating opportunities for farmers, businesses and other actors across the value chain. His extensive regional experience has positioned him as a strategic leader capable of navigating the intersection between science, policy, development finance, private-sector engagement and agricultural transformation. With more than three decades of experience across Africa's agricultural landscape, Walter Chivasa continues to contribute to the development of stronger institutions, more effective partnerships and scalable approaches to agricultural development and food security.

A holder of a Masters in Disaster Management, BSc holder of Agronomy

I'm an experienced Agronomist and Community Development professional with a Master’s Degree in Agribusiness and a Bachelor’s Degree in Crop Production. Currently working with RAB-SPIU under the CDAT Project, with expertise in agricultural extension, crop production, farmer and cooperative development, agroforestry, nursery management, project monitoring, and reporting. Also gained practical international agricultural extension experience in Israel through Kinneret College. Skilled in farmer training, stakeholder coordination, data collection, and promoting sustainable and climate-smart agriculture

Dr. Augustine Erhabor is a seasoned Agricultural Extension and Rural Development professional with over 13 years of experience in agribusiness development, agricultural extension, farmer empowerment, and public sector leadership. He serves as a Chief Agricultural Officer at the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Nigeria, where he designs and implements programmes that improve rural livelihoods, promote food security, and strengthen agribusiness value chains. He is an author, agricultural consultant, trainer, and advocate for sustainable agriculture, with a passion for empowering farmers, youth, and women through innovation, capacity building, and enterprise development.

Collen Tapfumaneyi is the founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of the Escrow Group comprising Financial Securities Exchange, Corpserve Registrars and Escrow Systems. He was previously CEO of Custody and Registrar Services Limited (Kenya) following the acquisition of the company from Barclays Bank of Kenya. Collen has a long and successful track record in the capital markets and as a provider of capital marketsand financial services solutions in Africa.

Ashleigh Nyambirai Professional Profile Ashleigh Nyambirai is a strategic agricultural executive and financial inclusion advocate serving as Chief Executive Officer of TN Livestock Trust (TNLT), the pioneering institution behind Zimbabwe’s first cattle bank. In her role as CEO, Ashleigh leads an ambitious effort to redefine livestock farming as a structured, bankable and productive economic sector. She oversees multi-farm operations with a focus on improving operational efficiency, strengthening farmer participation and creating systems that enable livestock to play a greater role within Zimbabwe’s formal financial ecosystem. Under her leadership, TN Livestock Trust is advancing an innovative model that brings together agriculture and finance to create new economic opportunities for rural farmers. The model is designed to support the inclusion of previously unbanked farmers within formal financial systems while creating structured pathways through which livestock can be recognised as an asset with economic and financial value. Ashleigh's work is centred on sustainable agricultural growth, innovation in agri-finance and the development of practical mechanisms that improve farmers' access to finance. By positioning livestock as a potential store of value and collateral instrument, she is helping to address longstanding barriers that limit the ability of rural farmers to access formal financial services and participate fully in the economy. Her leadership reflects a broader commitment to transforming the livestock sector from a predominantly traditional farming activity into a more organised and commercially viable asset class. Through TN Livestock Trust, she is contributing to the development of systems that connect livestock production, financial services and rural economic development. Ashleigh Nyambirai's work represents an emerging model of agricultural leadership in Zimbabwe, where innovation in finance is being applied to unlock the economic potential of livestock and expand financial inclusion. Through her leadership, she is contributing to a more structured, productive and financially accessible livestock sector while supporting the broader development of Zimbabwe's agricultural economy.

Clyde Takudzwa Maponga has built a strong reputation as a dedicated agricultural insurance professional whose work has helped build capacity for the agriculture insurance industry in zimbabwe and around Africa. He continues to support the farmers, agribusinesses and rural communities. His contribution to agricultural risk management reflects a practical understanding of the challenges faced by farmers and a clear commitment to helping them become more resilient. Clyde Takudzwa Maponga – Agricultural Insurance Champion Clyde specializes in agricultural underwriting and agribusiness risk management, focusing on food security and livelihood protection. He designs accessible, practical insurance products that shield farmers from climate shocks like droughts and floods. Professional Achievements · Agricultural insurance innovation: He was part of the development and promotion of practical insurance solutions designed to help farmers manage losses caused by drought, floods, pests and other production risks under the R4 and currently spearheads the Farmers basket. · Farmer and stakeholder capacity building: Contributed to awareness and training initiatives that help farmers and agribusiness partners better understand the value of insurance and risk management with his radio programs on Classic 263 as well as Power FM. · Industry engagement: Clyde has held trainings for Insurance underwriters on Agriculture insurance under IIZ. Works with key stakeholders to encourage more inclusive agricultural insurance approaches that respond to the needs of both commercial and smallholder farmers. · Use of technology: Promoted digital and mobile-based solutions that can simplify access to insurance services, improve communication and support faster claims processes for farmers. Scale of Contribution · National Radio programs have helped extend awareness of agricultural insurance to farmers and agribusiness stakeholders through engagement, partnerships and knowledge-sharing platforms. · Regional and continental participation on Agriculture insurance matters has Contributed to efforts aimed at improving insurance uptake in underserved farming communities where risk protection is most needed. · Supported collaboration with industry players and development partners to strengthen agricultural insurance practices and improve farmer-focused solutions.

Geoffrey Toma is a versatile Zimbabwean agriculture professional with more than eight years of experience spanning farm production, agronomy, agricultural insurance, farmer training and agribusiness development. His diverse career has enabled him to develop a broad understanding of the agricultural sector, from on-farm production and technical advisory services to risk management, insurance and business development. Throughout his career, Geoffrey has held a range of roles including Farm Manager, Sales Agronomist, Farmer Trainer, Loss Adjuster and Assessor, Tobacco Hail Inspector, Agriculture Underwriter, Managing Consultant and Agribusiness Development Manager. This breadth of experience has given him a unique perspective on the interconnected challenges and opportunities across Zimbabwe's agricultural value chains. His technical experience in farm production and agronomy has involved supporting farmers with practical production knowledge and helping them improve their agricultural practices. As a farmer trainer and sales agronomist, he has worked directly with producers, translating technical agricultural knowledge into practical solutions that can be applied at farm level. Geoffrey has also developed specialised experience in agricultural insurance, including loss assessment, agricultural underwriting and tobacco hail inspection. His work in this area contributes to strengthening risk management within agriculture and helping farmers and agricultural businesses better understand and manage the risks associated with production. In addition to his technical and insurance experience, Geoffrey has contributed to agricultural development initiatives in Zimbabwe. He has supported grant applications for irrigation schemes, helping agricultural communities access funding for infrastructure development. He has also assisted irrigation schemes in developing constitutions and governance structures designed to provide clear frameworks for managing their operations. His combination of practical farming knowledge, agronomic expertise, insurance experience and agribusiness development skills allows Geoffrey to work across different aspects of the agricultural ecosystem. He brings a commercially minded yet farmer-focused approach to solving agricultural challenges and supporting the development of sustainable farming enterprises. Through his varied professional experience, Geoffrey Toma has established himself as a multi-disciplinary agriculture professional capable of operating across production, advisory, risk management, finance and agribusiness development. His contribution to farmer capacity building and irrigation development further demonstrates his commitment to strengthening Zimbabwe's agricultural sector.

Brian Nyasha Nyamande Professional Profile Brian Nyasha Nyamande is a Zimbabwean agricultural insurance and agribusiness professional whose career combines agronomy, agricultural risk management and insurance. Based in Harare, he has developed expertise in designing and supporting financial risk-management solutions that help farmers navigate the uncertainties associated with agricultural production. Brian currently serves as Head of Agriculture and Structured Products at CBZ Holdings Limited, where his work focuses on agricultural insurance, risk management and the development of innovative financial and insurance products for farmers. His role places him at the intersection of agriculture and financial services, with a particular focus on creating solutions that can serve both small-scale and large-scale producers. Prior to his current position, Brian worked as an Agronomist and Agricultural Insurance Underwriter at Old Mutual Zimbabwe. This experience enabled him to combine technical knowledge of crop production with an understanding of agricultural insurance and underwriting, providing a strong foundation for his work in agricultural risk management. His professional interests include agricultural insurance, structured agricultural products, climate and weather-related production risks, agronomy and index-based insurance. Through his work, Brian has contributed to discussions around strengthening farmers' resilience to climate-related risks and improving access to practical risk-management solutions. A key aspect of his professional contribution is the recognition that agricultural productivity and financial resilience are closely connected. Farmers face risks ranging from adverse weather and climate variability to crop losses and market uncertainty, making effective insurance and structured financial products important tools for protecting agricultural investments. Brian's combination of agricultural science and financial-sector expertise positions him to contribute to the development of innovative agricultural insurance solutions in Zimbabwe. His work supports the broader objective of making farmers more resilient while strengthening the relationship between agriculture, finance and risk management. Through his growing leadership in agricultural insurance and structured products, Brian Nyasha Nyamande is contributing to the development of a more resilient agricultural sector in Zimbabwe and to the expansion of financial solutions that can help farmers manage production risks.

Arran Kamungeremu is an award-winning Procurement and Supply Chain Executive with over eight years of experience leading strategic sourcing, procurement transformation, and supply chain operations across public sector, donor-funded, mining, broadcasting, and local government institutions. He currently serves as Head of Supply Chain Operations for the IFAD-funded Horticulture Enterprise Enhancement Project (HEEP) in Zimbabwe, where he oversees procurement and supply chain activities for a US$65.5 million development programme. Arran is recognized for delivering operational excellence, driving cost optimisation, strengthening governance, and leading high-performing procurement teams.

Thelma Chimbganda Agricultural Logistics Excellence Award Thelma Chimbganda is a Zimbabwean entrepreneur, logistics professional and Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Beyond Borders Logistics, a growing logistics and supply chain company focused on making international trade more accessible, efficient and reliable for businesses across Africa. Since establishing Beyond Borders Logistics with her sister, Michelle Chimbganda, Thelma has built a business that provides integrated procurement and logistics solutions spanning sourcing and procurement, freight forwarding, customs clearing, import and export documentation, project freight management, warehousing, supply chain consulting and last-mile delivery. The company has developed a strong international network connecting Zimbabwe and African businesses with markets and suppliers across China, Dubai, the United Kingdom, India and Kenya. Her contribution to agricultural logistics is particularly significant because she understands that agriculture does not end at production. Farmers and agribusinesses need reliable access to inputs, equipment, markets, transportation, export channels and international buyers. Thelma has actively explored ways of using logistics, technology and aggregation models to connect small-scale farmers to e-commerce and international markets. In an interview on the development of Beyond Borders Logistics, she highlighted a specific initiative aimed at integrating small-scale farmers into e-commerce. The model involves bringing farmers together through hubs, supporting aggregation, grading and export processes, and helping producers access international markets. Her vision has been to use technology and logistics to help agricultural producers move beyond fragmented local markets and participate more effectively in regional and global trade. This approach reflects a broader philosophy that has defined Thelma's leadership: logistics should not simply be about moving goods from one point to another. It should be an enabler of enterprise growth, market access and economic participation. Beyond Borders Logistics was born from Thelma's recognition of the challenges businesses faced with high logistics costs, unreliable service providers, limited shipment visibility and inefficient processes. Together with her sister, she launched the company around 2020, building it from their parents' living room into an established logistics business. The company's first consignment arrived in January 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic began, creating an exceptionally difficult environment for a new logistics company. Rather than retreat, Thelma and her team adapted, maintained communication with clients and continued building the business. Technology and transparency have been central to her approach. Under her leadership, Beyond Borders Logistics has embraced digital tools, shipment tracking, cloud-based systems and data-driven approaches to improve efficiency and visibility across the supply chain. The company has also developed solutions aimed specifically at MSMEs, recognising that smaller businesses often face the greatest barriers when attempting to participate in international trade. Thelma's impact extends beyond her own company. She has become an advocate for more inclusive African trade and for strengthening the role of SMEs in regional and international commerce. Her professional interests include trade facilitation, logistics technology, e-commerce, supply chain development and creating pathways through which African businesses can connect with global markets. Her leadership has also received international recognition. Thelma Chimbganda was recognised in the Choiseul 100 Africa rankings in both 2024 and 2025, which identify influential young African economic leaders with the potential to contribute significantly to the continent's development. The 2025 ranking lists her as Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Beyond Borders Logistics, with TSOKA Courier identified as a previous venture. She has also invested significantly in developing her professional expertise, including a Master's degree in Strategic Management, a Certificate in Import and Export Logistics Management from the University of Cape Town, and participation in the Stanford Seed programme. She has held leadership roles within the logistics sector, including serving as Chairperson of the Women in Logistics Africa Zimbabwe Chapter. For agricultural value chains, the significance of Thelma Chimbganda's work lies in her understanding of logistics as infrastructure for market access. Efficient agricultural logistics can determine whether inputs reach farmers on time, whether agricultural products can meet export requirements, whether producers can reach profitable markets and whether small and emerging agribusinesses can participate in international value chains. Through her leadership, Thelma has worked to reduce these barriers by combining logistics expertise, technology, procurement, trade facilitation and an SME-focused approach. Her efforts to explore farmer aggregation, grading, export facilitation and e-commerce demonstrate a clear understanding of the logistical challenges facing agricultural producers and the opportunities created when those challenges are addressed systematically. Thelma Chimbganda therefore represents a new generation of African logistics leaders who see logistics not merely as transportation, but as a strategic enabler of agriculture, trade and enterprise development. Her work is helping create stronger connections between producers, businesses and markets, while making international trade more accessible to the SMEs and agricultural enterprises that form an important part of Africa's economic future. For her contribution to strengthening agricultural value chains, improving access to markets, promoting technology-driven logistics and advancing inclusive trade, Thelma Chimbganda is a strong candidate for the Agricultural Logistics Excellence Award.

Amanda Shingai Mushonga is the Founder and Managing Director of Aquiline Soluté Pvt. Ltd., a 100% female-owned logistics and supply chain solutions company operating in Zimbabwe and South Africa. With over 24 years of experience in procurement, logistics, international trade and agricultural supply chains, she has held senior management positions within Zimbabwe’s agro-processing and stockfeed manufacturing industries. Amanda holds a Diploma in Customs and Legislative Procedures from the Shipping and Forwarding Agents of Zimbabwe and is currently pursuing an MSc in Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management at the University of Salford, UK. She also serves as a Supply Chain Consultant to agribusiness and logistics organisations and is the President of the Board of the French School of Harare.

About Agronomist engineer specializing in tropical agronomy, ISTOM, with a Master’s degree in Project Management and Management from ISC Paris. 30 years of experience in agronomy across Asia, Africa, and South America. Founder and operator of vertically integrated agricultural enterprises based in Mauritius, specializing in fruit and vegetable production and animal feed. Official importer and distributor of agricultural equipment, including brands such as Deutz-Fahr, Nardi, Massano, and Idrofoglia, through Agripulse Afrique ITE and Socodis in the DRC and Republic of Congo

Makonda Renewable Tech Co Ltd is a Tanzanian- pioneering company dedicated to revolutionising agriculture through innovative renewable energy solutions. Our flagship product is the Wave Powered Irrigation Pump, designed to provide sustainable and efficient irrigation for smallholder farmers in shores of Lake Victoria In Tanzania ranging from Mwanza, Mara, Kagera, Simiyu and Geita regions. With a focus on environmental sustainability and social impact, our pump harnesses the power of Lake waves to drive irrigation systems, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change effects. Our executive team brings together expertise in engineering, renewable energy, business management and agricultural development to drive forward our mission of empowering farmers and promoting food security in coastal and shores communities Through strategic partnerships, ongoing research, and a commitment to excellence, Makonda Renewable Tech Co Ltd is poised to lead the way in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy innovation by 2027 in East Africa through Lake Victoria shores in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

Mulenga Chimba is a Zambian agripreneur and AgriTech innovator focused on addressing one of Zambia's key agricultural challenges: limited access to mechanisation. As the Founder of Tulime Zed, he is developing a digital marketplace that connects farmers with tractors and agricultural machinery on demand, helping improve access to essential equipment while creating additional income opportunities for machinery owners. His work sits at the intersection of agriculture, technology and development, with professional experience spanning agribusiness, irrigation and farm operations. Through Tulime Zed, Mulenga is applying digital technology to create more efficient connections between agricultural equipment owners and farmers who require mechanisation services. The platform is designed to make agricultural machinery more accessible by enabling farmers to access equipment when they need it, without necessarily having to own expensive machinery. This approach has the potential to lower barriers to mechanisation, improve farm productivity and support more efficient use of agricultural assets. Mulenga's broader focus is on developing practical, technology-driven solutions that respond to the realities faced by farmers and contribute to stronger food systems in Zambia. His work reflects an entrepreneurial approach to agricultural transformation, using digital platforms to address infrastructure and access challenges within the agricultural value chain. With experience across agricultural operations and agribusiness, Mulenga combines practical sector knowledge with an interest in technology and digital innovation. His vision is to scale solutions that make agricultural services more accessible, efficient and commercially viable for farmers and other participants in the agricultural ecosystem. Through Tulime Zed, Mulenga Chimba is contributing to the development of Zambia's emerging digital agriculture landscape and demonstrating how technology can be applied to improve access to mechanisation and support agricultural productivity.

Imani Lubaba is a Tanzanian agricultural media professional, agribusiness journalist, and Founder of Rubaba Media and Tanzania na Kilimo, platforms dedicated to delivering high-quality agricultural information, research-based reporting, and farmer-focused storytelling across Tanzania. He specializes in agricultural communication and journalism, producing educational and investigative content on crop production, livestock farming, fisheries, agribusiness markets, and rural development. His work focuses on simplifying complex agricultural topics into accessible, practical information that supports farmers in making informed decisions. Through his platforms, he has built a network of over 7,000 farmers and agricultural stakeholders, using digital media, social platforms, and field reporting to bridge the gap between agricultural experts, institutions, and farming communities. He has collaborated with government ministries, the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), international agribusiness companies, livestock genetics companies, and development partners to amplify credible agricultural knowledge and promote sustainable farming practices. He has also worked with industry stakeholders such as Koudijs, contributing to farmer education and agricultural awareness campaigns. Imani Lubaba has been recognized through nominations for regional platforms such as the East Africa Youth Agripreneur Excellence Awards and the East Africa Youth Business & Investment Expo, reflecting his contribution to agricultural media, journalism excellence, and youth-driven agricultural transformation. He is committed to strengthening agricultural journalism in Africa by combining storytelling, data, and field-based reporting to empower farmers, improve transparency in the agricultural sector, and support sustainable rural development.

With 7 years of professional journalism experience, I specialise in producing compelling stories across business, innovation, lifestyle, health, environment, climate, agriculture, and entertainment. My work focuses on documenting the ideas, people, and systems shaping everyday life and long-term development across Africa. I have contributed extensively to Nation Media Group’s print and digital platforms, where I consistently deliver journalism that informs public understanding, amplifies underreported voices, and explores emerging trends in entrepreneurship, sustainability, and social change. My reporting is particularly interested in the intersection of: • Economic opportunity and entrepreneurship. • Climate Innovation and environmental sustainability. • Gender and social inclusion. • Health and community resilience. I approach storytelling as both a craft and an instrument for impact,creating content that engages, informs, and inspires, while contributing to broader conversations around development and equity. Areas of expertise: • Feature Writing. • Narrative Journalism. • Editorial Content Development. • In-depth Research. • Editing & Proofreading. • Audience Engagement.

Natasha Nyarai Mhandu is an accomplished radio producer, presenter, and agricultural communicator at the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) – Classic 263 Radio. With eight years of experience in broadcasting, Natasha has distinguished herself through impactful storytelling, development-focused journalism, and her commitment to using media as a platform for agricultural empowerment and national development. As the producer and presenter of Agribusiness, which airs every Monday from 7:15 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Farmers Hub, which airs every Wednesday from 7:15 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Natasha creates platforms that connect farmers, agricultural experts, researchers, policymakers, and industry players. Through these programmes, she promotes knowledge sharing, innovation, sustainable farming practices, and the growth of Zimbabwe’s agricultural value chains. Her work reflects a passion for making agricultural information accessible and relevant, while highlighting the role of agriculture in improving livelihoods, strengthening food security, and driving economic development. Natasha holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Business Management from Monash University South Africa and a Master’s degree in International Relations from Bindura University of Science and Technology. She combines research, strategic communication, and broadcasting expertise to tell stories that inform, inspire, and create meaningful impact. Known as “The Lioness,” Natasha continues to use the power of media to amplify agricultural voices and contribute to the transformation of Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector.

Dr. Takudzwa Mandizvo is a Zimbabwean crop scientist and researcher who earned his PhD from University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) at the age of 29. He previously graduated with a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Crop Science cum laude from Chinhoyi University of Technology in 2016. His doctoral research focused on the drought tolerance of citron watermelon, an underutilised indigenous crop native to Southern Africa. Through agro-morphological, physiological, and biochemical studies, he identified traits that could help develop climate-resilient crop varieties capable of withstanding drought and heat stress. Dr. Mandizvo has published several scientific papers in international journals and is passionate about advancing sustainable agriculture, crop improvement, and food security in the face of climate change. He has also served as a lecturer and continues to pursue research aimed at improving crop production and resilience in Africa.

Claytos Chimoto is a Zimbabwean applied researcher, development practitioner, and Co-Founder & Executive Director of Clasmael Radical Innovators (Private) Limited (CRI). His research focuses on strengthening agribusiness performance through enterprise readiness, market intelligence, commercial validation, investment readiness, and institutional capability. Rather than producing research for publication alone, he develops evidence-based tools and decision-support frameworks that help agribusinesses, MSMEs, and development institutions make better strategic decisions. His work has supported more than 35 MSMEs and engaged over 50 agripreneurs, generating practical insights that improve enterprise resilience, competitiveness, and sustainable growth. He is committed to translating research into scalable solutions that strengthen agricultural systems, improve investment outcomes, and advance inclusive economic development across Africa.

Dr. Abidemi Talabi is an accomplished crop scientist, plant breeder, and agribusiness entrepreneur with over 15 years of progressive experience in agricultural research, crop improvement, innovation, and enterprise development. Renowned for translating scientific research into practical agricultural solutions, he has built a career focused on developing climate-resilient cropping systems, improving food security, and advancing sustainable agricultural development across Africa and the Middle East. He holds Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees in Plant Science from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. To complement his scientific expertise with advanced analytical capabilities, he also earned a postgraduate degree in Data Science and Business Analytics from the University of Texas at Austin, equipping him with the skills to integrate data-driven decision-making into modern agricultural research and innovation.

Daniel Itayi Mutsunge is an agribusiness specialist and entrepreneur based in Harare and Bindura, Zimbabwe, recognized for his leadership across agribusiness, power solutions, and renewable energy. Through his work as a Group General Manager with Tech Africa, he has driven initiatives spanning generator, water pumping, construction and solar energy solutions for agricultural and commercial markets, combining technical expertise with sharp commercial acumen in pricing, market positioning and product strategy. He also owns and operates Poplas Farm in Shangani, a livestock production enterprise, giving him hands-on grounding in the practical realities of farming alongside his industry-level work. Daniel’s leadership extends into economic empowerment, serving as Secretary General of Legacy Builders for Economic Development, where he champions youth-focused programs across Mashonaland Central Province and other provinces in Zimbabwe. He is a PhD holder in Developmental Studies with research focused on empowering smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe’s Mutoko, Gokwe and Chipinge districts, work that directly informs his approach to inclusive, sustainable agribusiness development. He holds an MBA, MSc, BSc, and Postgraduate Diplomas in Strategic Management and Leadership. Daniel’s career reflects a rare blend of on-the-ground farming experience, commercial leadership in agri-input industries, and scholarly commitment to advancing smallholder livelihoods positioning him as a driving force for agribusiness excellence in Zimbabwe.

A Seasoned agricultural professional with over 15 years of progressive experience across multiple organizations in Zimbabwe, currently serving as a Training and Sales Agronomist at Nutrimaster. Holds a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Agriculture, Majoring in Crop Science from University of Zimbabwe, complemented by an Executive Master’s in Business Management from Africa University. Demonstrates a strong blend of technical agronomic expertise and commercial acumen, with proven track record in driving product adoption, delivering farmer- focused training, and supporting sustainable crop production systems. Skilled in sales strategy, customer relationship management, capacity building, with the ability to translate technical knowledge into practical, results-oriented solutions for diverse stakeholders.

## Professional Profile Dr. Betty Tanaka Muyambo is a Zimbabwean veterinarian and livestock health specialist serving as Animal Health Lead – Ruminants at Fivet Animal Health Zimbabwe. Based in Harare, she has established herself as a respected professional in Zimbabwe’s livestock and agricultural sectors, combining veterinary expertise with a strong commitment to farmer education, livestock productivity, and agribusiness development. In her role at Fivet Animal Health Zimbabwe, Dr. Muyambo provides leadership in ruminant animal health, supporting strategies that improve the health and productivity of cattle, sheep, and goats. Her work contributes to strengthening livestock production systems and supporting farmers to make informed decisions around animal health and production. Her professional journey is complemented by a strong foundation in veterinary medicine and leadership. She obtained her veterinary degree from the University of Zimbabwe, where she also served as President of the Zimbabwe Veterinary Students Association. This early leadership experience reflects her longstanding commitment to professional development and advancing the veterinary profession. Dr. Muyambo has also expanded her impact beyond clinical and corporate veterinary practice through her engagement with farmers, entrepreneurs, and community groups. She regularly participates in conferences and speaking platforms, including church-based initiatives, where she encourages individuals to explore corporate farming, agribusiness, and entrepreneurship as pathways to economic empowerment. Her contribution to the livestock sector received significant recognition in July 2026 when she was named **Woman in Dairy Extension Champion** at the Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers Awards. The recognition highlights her contribution to dairy extension and her role in supporting the development of livestock producers. Through her combination of veterinary expertise, industry leadership, farmer engagement, and advocacy for agricultural entrepreneurship, Dr. Muyambo represents a new generation of African agricultural professionals using technical knowledge to create practical impact across the livestock value chain.

Dr. Midway Bhunu is an Agribusiness Specialist and Program Manager with over a decade of experience in agricultural development, farmer training, and value chain strengthening. He leads coffee sector development initiatives in Zimbabwe, working with thousands of smallholder farmers to improve productivity, post-harvest quality, and market access. Holding degrees in Agricultural Economics, Strategic Management, and Postharvest Science and Technology, he is passionate about translating research into practical learning. Through curriculum development, capacity building, and mentorship, Dr. Bhunu has empowered farmers, extension officers, and agribusiness professionals with knowledge that drives sustainable livelihoods and resilient food systems across Africa.

I am a commercial sugarcane production professional with over 16 years of progressive experience in agronomy, farm management and agricultural leadership. I currently serve as a Senior Section Manager at Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe, managing approximately 1,000 hectares of irrigated sugarcane and leading a workforce of over 350 employees. My expertise covers crop establishment, irrigation, fertiliser management, harvesting, budgeting, operational planning and sustainable crop production. I hold a Diploma in Agriculture from Chibero Agricultural College, a BSc (Hons) in Agriculture (Crop Science), an MBA, a Postgraduate Certificate in Climate Change Management from the University of Edinburgh, and I am currently pursuing an MSc in Agronomy. My passion is to improve agricultural productivity through innovation, scientific research and data-driven decision-making while developing high-performing teams.

Lydia Murekatete is a Rwandan agribusiness entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of All Greens, a female-led agricultural enterprise focused on sustainable and climate-smart food production in Rwanda. Her work is centred on strengthening Rwanda's food systems through innovative agricultural production, improved market access and value-chain development. Through All Greens, Lydia has developed an integrated agribusiness model that combines greenhouse farming, fresh-produce distribution, agritech solutions, farmer training and market development. With extensive experience in agricultural operations and community outreach, Lydia has built her enterprise around addressing some of the practical challenges facing farmers and food producers, including climate resilience, production infrastructure, post-harvest handling and access to reliable markets. Under her leadership, All Greens has expanded its agricultural infrastructure from four to five greenhouses, established a retail shopfront and developed cold-storage capacity. These investments have strengthened the company's ability to produce, handle and distribute fresh agricultural products while creating a more resilient food supply model. Lydia's entrepreneurial journey has also generated employment opportunities, with All Greens creating nine jobs, seven of which are held by women. This reflects her commitment to using agribusiness not only as a commercial enterprise but also as a platform for employment creation and women's economic participation. Her contribution to agricultural entrepreneurship has received recognition through the Imali AgriChallenge, where she was among the ten winners of Phase 2 and received RWF 10 million in seed funding and mentorship to support the growth of her enterprise. Beyond her own business, Lydia is increasingly contributing to broader conversations around youth leadership, climate resilience and the future of African food systems. Her participation in regional agricultural platforms reflects her growing role as an advocate for entrepreneurship and innovation within Africa's agricultural sector. Through All Greens, Lydia Murekatete is demonstrating how climate-smart agriculture, technology, infrastructure and entrepreneurship can be combined to build more resilient food systems. Her work is contributing to Rwanda's agricultural development while creating opportunities for employment, market participation and greater inclusion within the agribusiness sector.

Ogbu, Egwu Joseph Biography of Ogbu Joseph Egwu – CEO of Joe Dlevite Farms Ogbu Joseph Egwu is a visionary entrepreneur, agricultural innovator, and the dynamic CEO of Joe Dlevite Farms, a leading agribusiness enterprise in Benue State, Nigeria. With a passion for sustainable farming, food security, and youth empowerment, he has transformed his agricultural venture into a model of excellence, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s agro-economy. Early Life & Education Born and raised in Benue State, Nigeria, Ogbu Joseph Egwu developed an early interest in agriculture, inspired by his family’s farming background. He understood the critical role of agriculture in economic development and sought to modernize traditional farming methods. He pursued his education with a focus on agriculture and business management, equipping himself with the knowledge to revolutionize farming practices. His academic background, combined with hands-on experience, laid the foundation for his future success in agribusiness. Studied Entrepreneurship and Business Management and graduated with a Modular degree from Lagos Business School Pan – Atlantic University, as well a B. Sc. Computer (Ed) in view at Joseph Sarwuan Tarkar University Makurdi, Benue State. The Birth of Joe Dlevite Farms Driven by a mission to enhance food production and create employment opportunities, Ogbu Joseph Egwu founded Joe Dlevite Farms. Starting as a small-scale farm, the enterprise has grown into a largescale agribusiness specializing in: Crop Production (Organic Yam Cassava) Poultry & Livestock Farming Agro-processing & Value Addition Agricultural Consultancy & Training Under his leadership, the farm has adopted modern techniques such as precision farming, mechanization, and organic practices, ensuring high yields and sustainability. Contributions to Agriculture & Economic Growth Ogbu Joseph Egwu is not just a farmer but a job creator and agro-industrialist. His farm employs hundreds of workers, empowering youths and reducing unemployment in rural communities. He also partners with smallholder farmers, providing them with training, seedlings, and market access to improve their livelihoods. Some of his notable contributions include: Innovative Farming Techniques: Introducing climate-smart agriculture to boost productivity. Food Security Initiatives: Supplying quality farm produce to local and international markets. Youth & Women Empowerment: Training programs to encourage agribusiness participation. Agri-Export Promotion: Expanding Nigeria’s agricultural export potential. Awards & Recognitions Due to his impact in the agricultural sector, Ogbu Joseph Egwu has received several awards, including: Top Agripreneurs in Africa of Development Bank of Nigeria with a $1000 grant in 2026 Entrepreneurship Excellent Award 2026 Best Agribusiness Entrepreneur of the Year (Nigeria Agricultural Awards) Outstanding Youth in Agriculture Benue State. Top Agripreneurs in Africa of Tony Elumelu Foundation with a $5000 grant in 2023. Vision for the Future Ogbu Joseph Egwu envisions Joe Dlevite Farms becoming a global agro-brand, leveraging technology to maximize efficiency. His long-term goals include Establishing a fully integrated agro-processing plant Expanding into commercial rice and cassava production Creating an agricultural hub for young entrepreneurs Promoting Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in food production Personal Philosophy A firm believer in hard work, innovation, and community development, Ogbu Joseph Egwu often says: "Agriculture is not just a business; it’s a solution to hunger, poverty, and unemployment. With the right approach, farming can transform nations." Through Joe Dlevite Farms, he continues to inspire a new generation of farmers, proving that agriculture is a viable and profitable venture. His story is a testament to resilience, vision, and the transformative power of agribusiness

I'm a dynamic, results-driven and collaborative professional. I'm passionate about making a difference to society.I am committed to empowering and guiding aspiring entrepreneurs and next generation of business leaders through mentorship, leveraging my expertise in banking, financial services and risk management in public and non-profit sectors to inspire sustainable growth and innovation. Achievable through managing finances, budgeting, and understanding credit, operational efficiency, project management, risk management, business strategy and entrepreneurial development. My personal experience and attributes have driven me into entrepreneurship to achieve self-sufficiency and economic independence ,and also empower the next generation of business leaders. As a Co-founder &CEO of TIMTRA POULTRY Farm Limited,I play a crucial role of integrating innovative practices and technology to drive business success. My key responsibilities and strategic initiatives, include leveraging Microfinance, Waste to feed technology via Black Soldier Fly larvae farming and REFLECT adult education methodology for Farmer education and community empowerment. Besides, I'm currently volunteering as a Business Development Services Provider [BDS] at Enterprise Uganda, Kampala. I graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Makerere University. Besides I hold a professional Banking diploma of the Uganda Institute of Bankers’. I have also received training in entrepreneurship skills training at UN Trade&Development,Tony Elumelu Foundation(TEF),United Nations Industrial Organisation(UNIDO),Enterprise Uganda,Youth Start-up Academy Uganda and National Social Security Fund, Uganda Registration Services Bureau(URSB),respectively as well as Customer Service Representative (CSR), project management, people management as well as financial management skills. Previously, from 2008 to 2024 ,I have served as a Banking Officer at Centenary Bank. I received and attended to customers queries, complaints and general information enquiries; received, verified, analyzed, processed customers transaction vouchers; as well as reconciled days work and generated reports on days postings. As a result of all my works, persistence and resilience, I have not only worn a number of accolades, but also featured in a number of professional magazines and publications. In the year 2013 I received prestigious Associateship of accolade of the Uganda Institute Banking& Financial Services and published in the Ugandan Banker journal (the Ugandan Banker,vol 23 issue 1,2013 page 22). I have also featured in the 10th edition of Financial Services magazine, the Agribusiness Digest of the Agribusiness Development Centre, among others. I was also awarded an Essay writing prize by the Uganda Institute of Banking& Financial Services. As a Chairperson of the East and Northern Family Association (TEANOFA), I successfully spearheaded the establishment TEANOFA Savings & Credit co-operative society a project of the association. I am able to successfully conduct and execute my designated roles and responsibilities in Co-founder &CEO role related field for better results of the project.

Sandra Victor Gwafan** is the CEO and Co-Founder of **DeBranch Farmers**, where she is driving a vision to transform agriculture by empowering smallholder farmers, advancing sustainable farming practices, and strengthening connections between rural producers and urban markets. Through DeBranch Farmers, Sandra is contributing to the development of a more resilient, efficient and inclusive agricultural ecosystem. The organisation provides smallholder farmers with access to modern agricultural technologies, practical training and essential resources designed to improve productivity, reduce post-harvest losses and promote sustainable farming practices. By combining data-driven insights with stronger market linkages, DeBranch Farmers enables farmers to make better-informed decisions, improve profitability and overcome longstanding barriers to market access. As CEO, Sandra provides strategic leadership across the organisation, with a particular focus on developing strategic partnerships, driving innovative product offerings and expanding DeBranch Farmers' market reach. Her work involves collaboration with local governments, agritech companies and other industry stakeholders to strengthen agricultural value chains and create opportunities that deliver meaningful benefits to farming communities. Sandra's leadership is grounded in the belief that smallholder farmers should be active participants in the growth and transformation of the agricultural economy. By bringing together technology, knowledge, market access and strategic collaboration, she is working to create practical solutions that enable farmers to become more productive, commercially viable and resilient. As DeBranch Farmers continues to scale, Sandra remains focused on fostering innovation, advancing sustainable agriculture and building lasting partnerships that create value for farmers, consumers and the wider agricultural community. Through her leadership, she is contributing to rural development while supporting the broader goal of strengthening food security and building a more equitable agricultural sector.

I am the founder and sole developer of Yamba Ekimera, an AI-powered crop disease detection platform built for Ugandan smallholder farmers. With a background in Information Technology from Muteesa I Royal University, I specialise in mobile application development, machine learning, and applied AI for agricultural contexts. I designed and built Yamba Ekimera end-to-end from training the deep learning model on over 80,000 plant disease images, to developing the Flutter mobile application, Supabase backend, and bilingual English-Luganda interface. The platform reflects both technical depth and a practical understanding of the real constraints facing rural farmers in Uganda: limited internet connectivity, language barriers, and inadequate access to agricultural expertise. My work sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, digital agriculture, and social impact building technology that is not only scientifically rigorous but genuinely accessible to the farmers who need it most.

Adewale Adegoke is a versatile professional whose career trajectory represents a confluence of Geospatial intelligence, Agribusiness, Land Administration and Business Environment reforms. In over 2 decades, Adewale has established himself as a consummate professional ,with a global outlook. While he has proven himself as an individual consultant across various consulting endeavours ,he pivoted to entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, with data driven approaches core to his vision. As the founder of Agroxchange Technology Services Limited, a digital technology driven agribusiness firm based in Nigeria, Adewale was able to establish Agroxchange as a reliable indigenous consulting firm. Since its establishment in 2020,Adewale has led Agroxchange to receiving multiple awards and global recognition in the following categories listed below: Extending innovative services for livelihood improvement for over 100,000 smallholder farmers across key value chains such as maize, rice, sorghum, sesame and soybeans. Adewale has remained consistent overtime in ensuring the place of data intelligence and digital transformation in agricultural financing becomes institutionalised by embedding geospatial data insights, and precision agriculture in daily workflow of the DFIs. Adewale has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, a post Graduate Degree in Geographic Information Science from the University of Nottingham, advanced degree in Executive Leadership from Oxford University /Said Business School and advanced degree in Finance from Harvard Business School. Adewale’s strongest point is establishing a common language and reference among social, environmental and economic capital within the agricultural sector, underpinned by digital technology and compliance with best practices.

Israel Alabi is an Agricultural and Environmental Engineer, agritech entrepreneur, and the Founder and CEO of Agrotronics Innovations. Dedicated to transforming African agriculture through technology, he develops smart, sustainable solutions that empower smallholder farmers with data-driven insights and climate resilience. A two-time agritech founder and recipient of the SME100 Africa 25under25 Entrepreneurship Leadership Award, Israel combines technical expertise from the University of Ibadan with certified training from AGRA and the Enterprise Development Centre to lead innovation across the agribusiness landscape.

Dr. Tony Bello is an internationally respected Food Scientist, Innovation and Commercialization Executive, Entrepreneur, and Board Chairman whose career spans more than three decades of leadership across Africa, North America, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Throughout his distinguished career, he has championed the transformation of agriculture from primary production into globally competitive industrial value chains, positioning agro-industrialization as a catalyst for economic growth, food security, and sustainable development. As the Founder and Chairman of Shine Bridge Global (SBG), Dr. Bello has built a visionary platform dedicated to unlocking the commercial potential of indigenous crops through innovation, value addition, strategic partnerships, investment mobilization, and market development. His leadership has positioned SBG as a bridge between agriculture, technology, manufacturing, research, entrepreneurship, and global markets, creating opportunities that extend across Africa and into international economies. In his current role as Chief Innovation and Commercialization Officer at Matna Foods Ltd., a Cavista Holdings company, Dr. Bello leads the commercialization of innovative cassava-based products and industrial solutions. His work has accelerated product development, strengthened strategic partnerships, expanded market opportunities, and advanced one of Africa's most ambitious agro-industrial platforms dedicated to cassava transformation. Before these leadership roles, Dr. Bello held senior innovation, research, and commercialization positions with Kraft General Foods, Frito-Lay (PepsiCo), and The Kellogg Company, where he successfully led the development and commercialization of award-winning food products and manufacturing innovations. Beyond the private sector, Dr. Bello contributed significantly to Nigeria's Agricultural Transformation Agenda through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, advancing policies and initiatives that promote value addition, industrial competitiveness, and rural economic development. A defining achievement of his career is the Cassava Kingdom Movement, a global initiative repositioning cassava as one of the world's leading industrial and food security crops. Through this movement, he mobilizes innovation, diaspora investment, strategic partnerships, entrepreneurship, and commercialization to unlock opportunities across the cassava value chain. Dr. Bello's work demonstrates that agro-industrial development extends beyond processing agricultural commodities—it requires building sustainable ecosystems connecting farmers, researchers, manufacturers, investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and international markets. His leadership has inspired collaborations across continents and continues to influence the future of agro-industrial development in Africa. His guiding philosophy, “Innovation creates possibilities. Commercialization creates impact. Industrialization transforms nations,” reflects his lifelong commitment to creating lasting economic value through agriculture. For his exceptional leadership, pioneering innovation, unwavering commitment to agro-industrial transformation, and outstanding contribution to building resilient agricultural industries across Africa, Dr. Tony Bello is a highly deserving recipient of the Africa Agribusiness Excellence Award – Agro-Industrial Development Champion.

Babangida is an award winning entrepreneur who is passionate about solving one of Africa's most pressing challenge: Food security. Arguably the largest aggregation network for collecting grains across Nigeria (Currently across 16 states). FloMuvina is an integrated agricultural supply chain catalyst ensuring farmers’ produce are off-taken at scale in the right quality and quantity to meet local processing and international market needs.

Joshua Soji Amos is the Founder and CEO of AgriPower Hub Limited, an agritech and clean energy company developing solar-powered agro-processing solutions that improve productivity and reduce processing costs for rural farmers. He recently led AgriPower Hub to win the Seplat Energy Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP) 2026 and is committed to advancing sustainable agriculture through innovation, renewable energy, and rural industrial development.

Founded in 1993, MSA Business Group has grown from a small agricultural commodity trading enterprise into a diversified Ethiopian business group with strong expertise in agro-processing, manufacturing, agricultural value-chain development, international trade, logistics, and industrial production. Its agro-processing operations are supported by modern technology, professional management, quality-focused production systems, and integrated value-chain approaches that connect farmers, suppliers, processors, distributors, and consumers, creating employment and contributing to sustainable agricultural and industrial development. MSA’s major agro-processing investments include AMAR PP Bag Manufacturing PLC, with facilities in Kombolcha and Bahir Dar producing approximately 65 million and 90 million bags annually, respectively; Mullie Animal Feed Processing Factory in Bahir Dar, with an annual production capacity of 150,000 metric tons, producing pelletized and non-pelletized dairy, broiler, layer, and beef feeds; and River-Valley Edible Oil Processing Factory, producing soybean oil, sunflower oil, palm olein/super olein, and oilseed cake for domestic and international markets. Through contract farming and direct linkages with producers, MSA seeks to secure consistent and quality raw materials for its agro-processing operations while creating reliable market opportunities and income for farmers, strengthening farmer–industry linkages, promoting value addition, and ensuring that the benefits of agro-processing extend across the agricultural value chain.

Iranloye Oluyemisi is a Nigerian agribusiness entrepreneur and cassava industry leader whose work has contributed significantly to the commercialisation, processing and value addition of cassava in Nigeria and across Africa. Driven by a strong passion for agriculture, she founded Psaltry International Company Limited, an agro-allied enterprise specialising in the production of high-quality cassava derivatives for diverse domestic and international markets. Under her leadership, Psaltry International has developed a business model centred on transforming cassava from a primary agricultural commodity into high-value industrial products. The company produces High Quality Cassava Starch, High Quality Cassava Flour and Sorbitol, serving a range of clients while contributing to the development of Nigeria's cassava processing and agro-industrial sector. For more than two decades, Iranloye has focused on strengthening the cassava value chain by integrating innovative agronomic practices with processing, farmer development and market-oriented production. Her approach extends beyond manufacturing to include the development of sustainable relationships with medium-scale farmers and the provision of technical support designed to improve productivity and participation in commercial agriculture. Through Psaltry International, she has supported farmers through consultation and training programmes, access to agricultural inputs and loan disbursement initiatives. These interventions have helped create stronger connections between agricultural producers and industrial markets while contributing to improved livelihoods and greater participation in the cassava value chain. A significant milestone in Iranloye's career came through her leadership within the EKHA Group, where she became the first Executive Director to launch cassava glucose syrup in Nigeria and the second such producer in Africa. This achievement demonstrated the potential for locally produced cassava derivatives to serve as substitutes for imported industrial ingredients while opening new opportunities for value addition within Africa's agricultural economy. An award-winning agropreneur, Iranloye has received both national and international recognition for her contribution to agricultural development, cassava commercialisation and humanitarian initiatives. Her work demonstrates how agricultural entrepreneurship can combine commercial success with farmer empowerment, industrial development and broader socioeconomic impact. Through her leadership of Psaltry International, Iranloye Oluyemisi continues to champion a vision of world-class cassava processing capable of competing against international standards. Her contribution to agriculture extends across production, processing, farmer development and industrial value addition, positioning her as an influential figure in Nigeria's evolving agribusiness landscape

Mrs Christina Taranhike popularly known as “Mai Chimuti” is the Co Founder and Managing Director of the Integral Kumusha (IK), a community based enterprise with the aim of eradicating poverty, hunger and marginalisation of the rural communities by transforming traditional rural homesteads into viable socio economic entities. She focuses on agricultural activities including crop & livestock farming, agro-processing and agro-tourism, in order to create wealth thereby accelerating regenerative local economies and rural industrialisation for the wellbeing of humanity in harmony with nature. She emphasises the use of available resources anchored upon an Ubuntu heritage based economic framework called Nhakanomics to transform rural communities from poverty to prosperity (P2P). She works with government ministries especially Ministry of Tourism & Tourism, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA). Her passion is to empower the vulnerable grassroots rural women and the youth with First Lady’s gastronomy, culinary skills and Cook Outs. One career fence she is currently facing is resistance from male leaders who feel threatened by her contribution and impact

Dr. Fahmy Seif Musanjje is a medical doctor, Blue Economy advocate, aquaculture practitioner, youth leader, and community development champion from Kenya's Coast. Trained at Makerere University, he has channeled his scientific background into building sustainable livelihoods through fisheries, aquaculture, and marine agribusiness — translating clinical knowledge of malnutrition directly into community-level food security interventions. As Founder and Group Leader of Pwani Hydrotech Youth Group (PHYG), a youth-driven Blue Economy organization based in Mtongwe Ward, Likoni Sub-County, Mombasa, Dr. Musanjje has built a fully operational aquaculture enterprise producing both African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) across three grow-out ponds. PHYG operates under the KEMFSED/World Bank project framework in affiliation with the Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS). Dr. Musanjje simultaneously chairs the Think Blue Pwani Community Based Organization (TBP-CBO) and leads the Blue Economy Awareness Campaign for Kenya (BEAK) Project, an advocacy initiative spanning four coastal counties: Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, and Lamu. His vision is singular: to transform coastal communities into prosperous Blue Economy hubs where fish feeds every child, empowers every youth, and sustains every ecosystem.

Dave Okech is a food systems leader transforming how fish is produced and traded across Africa through Aquarech, the continent's first integrated aquaculture platform that is revolutionizing the sector via ecosystem-support structures delivered through a mobile app and an innovative contract farming model. As Founder and CEO, Dave is pioneering a complete reimagining of aquaculture value chains—from farm to consumer—by building digital infrastructure that connects farmers, financiers, input suppliers, and markets into a seamless ecosystem. Through contract farming, Aquarech provides farmers with a bundled service including lease-to-own cages, quality inputs, technical support, and guaranteed market offtake—removing the financial barriers that have historically blocked smallholder farmers from entering the sector and creating an inclusive and sustainable production system that empowers women, youth, and rural communities. The Aquarech mobile app enables farmers to access high-quality feeds and fingerlings, reducing production cycles from 13 to 8 months, while Aquarech is the first startup in sub-Saharan Africa to provide credit financing to fish farmers through its non-collateralized loan facility, AquaFedha. The company has also launched Fish Deli, Africa's first air-fried tilapia brand, achieving vertical integration from farm to consumer. Under Dave's leadership, Aquarech has raised over $4 million, onboarded over 8,000 farmers and 7,000 traders, and is building Africa's first end-to-end aquaculture ecosystem—positioning the continent to become a global leader in sustainable fish production while creating jobs, building businesses, and feeding millions of Africans with a locally produced, affordable source of protein. A 2016 Mandela Washington Fellow, Acumen Fellow, and Obama Foundation Leader (2022), Dave holds a Diploma in Actuarial Science and is committed to scaling Aquarech's model across Africa, unlocking the continent's vast aquaculture potential and building a prosperous, food-secure future for generations to come

Vimbai Dzingirai is a Zimbabwean agricultural entrepreneur, farmer and crocodile rancher whose work reflects innovation, diversification and determination within the agricultural sector. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Vimbai's Crocodylidae Products, Tanning & Taxidermy (VCPTT), an enterprise built around crocodile farming and the development of value-added crocodile products. Vimbai has established herself in a highly specialised area of agriculture, becoming recognised as Zimbabwe's Female Farmer of the Year and building a reputation as a leading female participant in crocodile farming. Her agricultural portfolio extends beyond crocodiles to include poultry, piggery and cattle ranching, demonstrating a diversified approach to commercial farming. With approximately nine years of experience in crocodile farming and more than a decade of experience in poultry farming, Vimbai has developed practical expertise across multiple areas of agricultural production. Her work with Nile crocodiles extends beyond farming into value addition, with her enterprise involved in the production and marketing of crocodile leather, meat and oil. Her approach to agriculture is strongly entrepreneurial, focusing on creating greater value from agricultural production rather than limiting her activities to primary farming. Through VCPTT, she has sought to develop opportunities across the crocodile value chain while building a broader agricultural enterprise. Vimbai's achievements are particularly significant within the context of women's participation in specialised and traditionally male-dominated areas of agriculture. Her success in crocodile ranching demonstrates the potential for women to enter unconventional agricultural industries, develop commercially viable enterprises and create new pathways for agricultural entrepreneurship. Her professional interests also encompass marketing, business analysis, brand management, public relations and community engagement. She has pursued professional development in marketing management, international marketing management, tourism and hospitality, complementing her practical agricultural experience with business and entrepreneurial skills. Vimbai has also gained international exposure through participation in the U.S. Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program, including a focus on social entrepreneurship. She has further participated in the African Civic Engagement Academy at the University of Georgia, broadening her exposure to international perspectives on entrepreneurship and community development. Her work brings together agriculture, entrepreneurship, value addition and the sustainable utilisation of natural resources. Through her agricultural enterprise, Vimbai Dzingirai continues to demonstrate how innovation and diversification can create new opportunities within Zimbabwe's agricultural economy while inspiring greater participation by women in the sector.

Chengetai T. Koza is an agro-processing entrepreneur and founder of Kusasa REGEN, a growing food brand focused on fresh produce, pre-cut vegetables, fruit packs, wellness food solutions, and traditional foods under the Heritage Harvest range. Her work promotes value addition, convenience, healthy eating, and the development of locally inspired food products for modern households.

NUTRIVEG Powder is an innovative agri-food initiative specializing in turning local vegetables, cereals, and root plants into nutritious natural powders. The company promotes products like Okra, Beetroot, Cucumber, Cassava, Corn, and other local plant resources to offer practical, healthy, and accessible food solutions. NUTRIVEG Powder is committed to promoting nutrition, local consumption, and reducing post-harvest losses.

SPICE JUNXION & PREACHER CHEMHERE* *Spice Junxion (Pvt) Ltd*, founded in 2022 and headquartered in Harare, is a Zimbabwean agribusiness driving value addition in spices. The company processes and exports chillies, paprika, garlic, ginger, turmeric and indigenous spices to SADC, UAE and European markets under the "ZiRHub" quality standard. Spice Junxion works with 500+ smallholder farmers in Manicaland, Masvingo and Mashonaland, 60% of whom are women and youth. Through contract farming, Climate-Smart Agriculture and post-harvest training, the company has cut post-harvest losses by 40% and increased farmer incomes by 65% in 3 years. It employs 45 people directly and supports 1,200+ livelihoods. *CEO Preacher Chemhere* is an agribusiness leader and social entrepreneur. He built HACCP/BRCGS-compliant processing and launched "Spicepreneurs" to train 300+ rural youth. His vision is to make Africa the global spice basket by processing in Africa, for Africa and the world

Turyamureeba Amon Mahikaho is a Project Management professional, social entrepreneur, and sustainable agriculture innovator with over eight years of experience leading to impactful community development initiatives across East Africa. He is the Founder and Head of Operations at Hydroponic Farms Uganda, where he champions climate-smart agriculture through hydroponic farming to improve food security, create employment opportunities, and empower women, youth, and refugee communities. His expertise spans project management, strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation, grant writing, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building. A passionate advocate for innovation and environmental sustainability, Amon is dedicated to equipping communities with practical skills, promoting resilient livelihoods, and advancing inclusive development through technology driven solutions.

Pamela Nontobeko Tshozi is a South African agripreneur and climate innovation leader, Co-Founder of At Vision Ninety Nine (Pty) Ltd, a youth-led agribusiness advancing sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate-smart farming in rural communities. Her work focuses on strengthening smallholder farmer resilience through practical innovation in soil health, sustainable land management, and climate adaptation, with a strong emphasis on youth and women empowerment in agriculture.

Dedicated Forestry and Wildlife professional and agricultural specialist based in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Combining a solid academic foundation from Ahmadu Bello University with extensive field experience, I specialize in the agricultural value chain, climate-smart agriculture, and rural community development. Proven expertise in community-based advisory roles, farmer profiling, and utilizing digital extension tools to drive data-backed agricultural improvements and support smallholder farmer cooperatives.

Emmanuel Dumisani Nami Dube is a visionary agronomist and senior operations leader with more than a decade and a half of transformative experience driving large-scale success across the African agricultural sector. A definitive specialist in international export agriculture, Emmanuel has dedicated his career to building high-performing supply chains, optimizing food safety compliance, and championing sustainable rural development. His extensive professional footprint includes directing operations for numerous leading agricultural organizations within Zimbabwe and lending his technical expertise to premier international fresh produce corporations globally. Known for his rigorous execution and sharp commercial mindset, Emmanuel has consistently bridged the gap between local field production and high-value international markets, satisfying the strictest global compliance frameworks with absolute precision. Currently, Emmanuel serves as the driving force behind the operations at Takura, a fast-growing, premier horticultural export organization in Zimbabwe. Under his strategic stewardship, Takura has experienced meteoric, unprecedented growth scaling seamlessly from a modest 1-hectare pilot production site to its current, expansive 40-hectare footprint. More than just commercial numbers, Emmanuel’s visionary leadership has fundamentally transformed the socio-economic landscape of rural farming communities. Through the innovative integration of smallholder grower cohorts into international value chains, his projects have empowered hundreds of smallholder farmers, providing them with direct access to lucrative export markets, boosting localized productivity, and creating resilient, life-changing economic opportunities. Emmanuel embodies the future of African agribusiness: technically elite, commercially formidable, and deeply committed to impactful, sustainable agricultural excellence.

Dr Shadreck Tendai Magonziwa is a Zimbabwean veterinarian, animal-health specialist and agribusiness professional with extensive experience spanning poultry production, animal nutrition, veterinary pharmaceuticals, sales, marketing and business development. Based in Harare, he currently works with Kemin Animal Nutrition & Health in Sub-Saharan Africa, where his career has expanded from veterinary practice into regional animal-health and nutrition leadership. Dr Magonziwa holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Zimbabwe, as well as a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Commerce focused on strategic management and corporate governance. He has also undertaken professional training in marketing management and quality-management systems, giving him a strong combination of veterinary, commercial and management expertise. His early career established a strong foundation in poultry health and production. As a poultry veterinarian and Technical Marketing Manager at Lunar Chickens, he was involved in flock management, poultry health, biosecurity, feed research, farmer training and technical support. This experience gave him direct exposure to the production challenges faced by commercial poultry farmers and the importance of integrating animal health, nutrition and sound management practices. Dr Magonziwa subsequently joined Fivet Animal Health, where he expanded his responsibilities across animal-health products, stockfeeds and day-old chicks, while also contributing to business development, sales-team management, technical support and farmer training. His work brought together technical veterinary knowledge and commercial agribusiness, allowing him to support both farmers and businesses across the poultry value chain. He joined Kemin Animal Nutrition & Health in March 2021 and subsequently progressed into regional responsibilities as Exports Manager for SADC. His work focuses on areas including feed milling, feed safety, nutrition efficiency and intestinal health. This role has broadened his impact beyond Zimbabwe, enabling him to contribute to animal nutrition and agricultural development across the Southern African region. Dr Magonziwa has particularly strong expertise in poultry production and nutrition. His technical experience includes flock productivity, biosecurity, vaccination programmes, disease investigations and post-mortem examinations. He has also contributed to farmer education and livestock-health awareness through technical publications and industry engagements covering important livestock diseases and preventative management. His commitment to leadership and professional development began during his university years, when he served as President of the Zimbabwe Veterinary Students Association. Throughout his career, he has continued to support farmers and producer organisations through technical education, health services and practical guidance. Dr Magonziwa's career reflects the evolution of veterinary expertise into broader agribusiness leadership. By combining veterinary medicine, animal nutrition, commercial strategy, farmer training and regional business development, he has contributed to strengthening poultry and livestock production systems while supporting the growth of animal-health and nutrition businesses across Zimbabwe and the SADC region.

Ogbu, Egwu Joseph Biography of Ogbu Joseph Egwu – CEO of Joe Dlevite Farms Ogbu Joseph Egwu is a visionary entrepreneur, agricultural innovator, and the dynamic CEO of Joe Dlevite Farms, a leading agribusiness enterprise in Benue State, Nigeria. With a passion for sustainable farming, food security, and youth empowerment, he has transformed his agricultural venture into a model of excellence, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s agro-economy. Early Life & Education Born and raised in Benue State, Nigeria, Ogbu Joseph Egwu developed an early interest in agriculture, inspired by his family’s farming background. He understood the critical role of agriculture in economic development and sought to modernize traditional farming methods. He pursued his education with a focus on agriculture and business management, equipping himself with the knowledge to revolutionize farming practices. His academic background, combined with hands-on experience, laid the foundation for his future success in agribusiness. Studied Entrepreneurship and Business Management and graduated with a Modular degree from Lagos Business School Pan – Atlantic University, as well a B. Sc. Computer (Ed) in view at Joseph Sarwuan Tarkar University Makurdi, Benue State. The Birth of Joe Dlevite Farms Driven by a mission to enhance food production and create employment opportunities, Ogbu Joseph Egwu founded Joe Dlevite Farms. Starting as a small-scale farm, the enterprise has grown into a largescale agribusiness specializing in: Crop Production (Organic Yam Cassava) Poultry & Livestock Farming Agro-processing & Value Addition Agricultural Consultancy & Training Under his leadership, the farm has adopted modern techniques such as precision farming, mechanization, and organic practices, ensuring high yields and sustainability. Contributions to Agriculture & Economic Growth Ogbu Joseph Egwu is not just a farmer but a job creator and agro-industrialist. His farm employs hundreds of workers, empowering youths and reducing unemployment in rural communities. He also partners with smallholder farmers, providing them with training, seedlings, and market access to improve their livelihoods. Some of his notable contributions include: Innovative Farming Techniques: Introducing climate-smart agriculture to boost productivity. Food Security Initiatives: Supplying quality farm produce to local and international markets. Youth & Women Empowerment: Training programs to encourage agribusiness participation. Agri-Export Promotion: Expanding Nigeria’s agricultural export potential. Awards & Recognitions Due to his impact in the agricultural sector, Ogbu Joseph Egwu has received several awards, including: Top Agripreneurs in Africa of Development Bank of Nigeria with a $1000 grant in 2026 Entrepreneurship Excellent Award 2026 Best Agribusiness Entrepreneur of the Year (Nigeria Agricultural Awards) Outstanding Youth in Agriculture Benue State. Top Agripreneurs in Africa of Tony Elumelu Foundation with a $5000 grant in 2023. Vision for the Future Ogbu Joseph Egwu envisions Joe Dlevite Farms becoming a global agro-brand, leveraging technology to maximize efficiency. His long-term goals include Establishing a fully integrated agro-processing plant Expanding into commercial rice and cassava production Creating an agricultural hub for young entrepreneurs Promoting Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in food production Personal Philosophy A firm believer in hard work, innovation, and community development, Ogbu Joseph Egwu often says: "Agriculture is not just a business; it’s a solution to hunger, poverty, and unemployment. With the right approach, farming can transform nations." Through Joe Dlevite Farms, he continues to inspire a new generation of farmers, proving that agriculture is a viable and profitable venture. His story is a testament to resilience, vision, and the transformative power of agribusiness

Benjamin Zenda is the General Manager of Discovery Coin, a diversified Zimbabwean manufacturing and agribusiness company with a strong focus on horticulture and agribusiness value-chain development. He joined Discovery Coin in January 2024 and has since provided strategic leadership and overall direction to the organisation, supporting the growth and development of its agricultural operations. In his role, Benjamin is responsible for driving business growth, overseeing day-to-day operations, ensuring operational efficiency and translating the company's strategic objectives into practical business outcomes. His responsibilities span business development, financial oversight, stakeholder engagement, corporate governance, resource management and the identification of new investment opportunities. A significant area of his leadership is Discovery Coin's horticultural operation at its 20-hectare farm in Melfort, Zimbabwe, where the company produces high-quality vegetables and mushrooms for both the retail and commercial markets. Under his leadership, the business has continued to strengthen its production and commercial operations, supplying major retail chains including TM Pick n Pay, OK Zimbabwe and Food Lovers, as well as other outlets across the country. Benjamin also plays an important role in strengthening relationships with clients, suppliers, employees and other stakeholders, while ensuring that the company maintains consistent product and service quality. His leadership has contributed to the development of an agricultural enterprise that currently supports approximately 250 employees, while pursuing sustainable business growth and greater participation across the horticultural value chain. His approach to farm management combines strategic planning with operational oversight, commercial discipline and a focus on efficiency, positioning Discovery Coin's agricultural operations for continued growth and competitiveness within Zimbabwe's horticulture sector.

Jesca Nunurai Pambukeni is an Animal Scientist specializing in Feed Safety and Quality Assurance at a stockfeed manufacturing company. She oversees implementation of IMS standards to ensure regulatory compliance, product safety, and consistent feed quality. With expertise in lab control, risk management, and agribusiness extension, she drives quality improvements that protect brand reputation and support business growth.

A professional Food scientist with a decade experience in food industry. An energetic food science degree holder with added advantage of systems such as ISO 9001, 22000 and HACCP.

Linda Manyeza is the Founder and Director of Food Masters Africa (formerly Food Masters South Africa), a Johannesburg-based women-led agro-processing enterprise specializing in post-harvest loss reduction, food preservation, value addition, and sustainable agribusiness development. With over 30 years of professional experience spanning corporate credit management, entrepreneurship, recruitment and agroprocessing, she combines strong business leadership with technical expertise to deliver innovative, climate-smart food systems solutions. Linda specializes in agro-processing, food preservation technologies, post-harvest management, value chain development, entrepreneurship, market access, and community enterprise development. She is recognized for promoting practical, affordable food preservation methods that integrate traditional sun-drying knowledge with modern food safety standards and solar drying technologies to reduce food loss, improve nutrition, and strengthen food security. Linda served as Value Chain Ambassador – Agro-processing with African Food Changemakers and currently serves as Regional Ambassador – Southern Africa, where she collaborates with fellow African Food Changemakers Ambassadors across the region to strengthen partnerships, promote innovation, support agribusiness entrepreneurs, and advance sustainable and inclusive food systems transformation. She is an award-winning agro-processing entrepreneur, speaker, and facilitator committed to advancing resilient food value chains, reducing post-harvest losses, empowering women and youth, and accelerating Africa's transition to sustainable and climate-smart food systems.

Dr. Vimbai N.C. Samukange Professional Profile Dr. Vimbai N.C. Samukange is a distinguished Zimbabwean scientist and biotechnology leader whose work spans agricultural biotechnology, molecular biology, enzyme chemistry and applied scientific research. She currently serves as Director of the Biotechnology Research Institute at the Scientific and Industrial Research and Development Centre (SIRDC) in Harare, a position she has held since July 2023. With an academic and research career spanning Zimbabwe, Japan and Europe, Dr. Samukange has developed extensive expertise in biotechnology research and its practical applications across agriculture, healthcare and industrial development. Her scientific work reflects a strong commitment to using biotechnology to address challenges affecting food production, public health and economic development. Dr. Samukange holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science and Technology from the University of Zimbabwe, a Master of Science in Agricultural Science from Kyoto University in Japan and a PhD in Agricultural Science from Kyoto University, where she specialised in Enzyme Chemistry. Her international research experience includes a postdoctoral research position at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology in Japan, where she investigated the role of the nmr-1 gene in learning and memory using Caenorhabditis elegans. She subsequently conducted research into cellular ageing at the Institute of Biochemistry in Romania. Alongside her research career, Dr. Samukange has contributed to academic development through her teaching at the University of Zimbabwe, where she lectured in areas including Cell Biology, Food Hygiene and Environmental Health. As Director of the Biotechnology Research Institute at SIRDC, Dr. Samukange provides leadership in biotechnology research and development, supporting the advancement of scientific solutions with potential applications in agriculture, healthcare and industry. Her areas of interest include crop improvement, molecular biology, agricultural biotechnology, industrial microbiology and medical innovation. Her agricultural biotechnology interests include improving important food crops such as maize and groundnuts and supporting the development of crop varieties with enhanced resilience. Her work also explores the potential of biotechnology in medical applications, including drug discovery and the development of affordable diagnostic technologies. In industrial biotechnology, Dr. Samukange has explored the use of algae for commercial applications and the identification and utilisation of microorganisms with potential industrial value. Her multidisciplinary approach reflects a broader commitment to translating scientific research into practical solutions with social and economic impact. She is also affiliated with the National Biotechnology Authority of Zimbabwe and is an elected member of the African Academy of Sciences, reflecting her contribution to the scientific community and her growing role within Africa's research and innovation ecosystem. Through her scientific leadership, research expertise and commitment to applied biotechnology, Dr. Vimbai N.C. Samukange is contributing to the advancement of Zimbabwe's scientific capacity while supporting the development of innovative solutions for agriculture, healthcare and industrial development.

Tawonga Nyirenda is a Malawian agripreneur and advocate for sustainable food systems, community development and agricultural transformation. As the Founder of SeedBiz, she is developing circular-economy solutions designed to strengthen rural livelihoods, improve food security and build resilience among smallholder farmers and communities across Malawi. Through SeedBiz, Tawonga is working with more than 300 smallholder farmers across Malawi, supporting them with practical solutions that aim to make agriculture more sustainable, profitable and accessible. Her approach combines agricultural innovation with environmental sustainability, addressing some of the challenges that limit productivity and profitability for smallholder farmers. A key component of SeedBiz's model is the use of Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) to convert organic waste into high-protein livestock feed and organic fertilizer. This circular approach addresses two important challenges facing agricultural communities: the rising cost of agricultural inputs and the need for effective waste management. By transforming waste into valuable agricultural inputs, the model creates opportunities to reduce costs while supporting more sustainable production systems. Tawonga's work extends across the agricultural value chain, supporting farmers, livestock producers and agribusinesses with affordable and climate-smart solutions. Her focus is on developing locally relevant innovations that can improve productivity, strengthen farm profitability and contribute to more resilient food systems. Beyond the technical and commercial aspects of agribusiness, Tawonga is committed to expanding opportunities for women and young people within agriculture. Through entrepreneurship, skills development and participation in modern agricultural value chains, she seeks to create pathways for greater economic inclusion and encourage a new generation to view agriculture as an opportunity for innovation and enterprise. Tawonga's leadership journey has been strengthened through participation in initiatives supported by AGRA and other global platforms that recognise innovation, resilience and impact-driven leadership. These experiences have contributed to her understanding of the role that locally developed solutions and entrepreneurial leadership can play in addressing Africa's agricultural challenges. Through SeedBiz, Tawonga is demonstrating how circular agriculture can create economic and environmental value at the same time. By connecting waste management, livestock production, sustainable inputs and farmer empowerment, she is contributing to a more resilient and inclusive agricultural sector in Malawi.

Joshua Zinzombe is a leading farmer in Zimbabwe , he has helped alot of us young farmers in horticulture for the past few years especially those exporting horticulture produce , and is a leader at Zimbabwe's farmer's union.

Fred Munene Professional Profile Fred Munene, widely recognised across East Africa through his brand “Farm with Fred,” is a Kenyan agronomist, agricultural consultant, commercial farmer and digital agricultural educator. He has established himself as a prominent voice in climate-smart farming, agricultural education and sustainable food systems, using practical knowledge and digital platforms to demonstrate how agriculture can become a profitable and sustainable enterprise. With expertise spanning horticultural production, high-tech greenhouse tomato and capsicum farming, irrigation systems and livestock production, Fred combines technical agronomy with practical commercial farming experience. His work focuses on helping farmers, particularly smallholders, adopt efficient production methods, understand their markets and build farming enterprises capable of generating consistent income. Fred began his entrepreneurial journey in 2015 after working as a hired farm manager. Determined to establish his own agricultural enterprise, he moved into consultancy and part-time farming with limited resources, starting with a worn-out water pump, a few pipes and Sh20,000 in capital. Through persistence, technical innovation and the adoption of precision agriculture, he progressively expanded his farming operations and developed commercially viable production systems. His farm has since evolved into a practical demonstration of integrated and diversified agriculture, incorporating horticulture, livestock and resource-efficient production practices. His farming projects have generated significant monthly income, demonstrating his belief that small-scale agriculture can be transformed into a commercially sustainable business when farmers adopt the right production, financial and marketing strategies. A central part of Fred's work is his advocacy for the profitable smallholder model. Rather than viewing small-scale farming as inherently low-income, he promotes diversified farming systems that create multiple revenue streams from limited land. His approach encourages farmers to combine enterprises such as vegetables, eggs, milk and livestock to create more frequent and consistent sources of income. Fred also promotes a market-first approach to agriculture, encouraging farmers to understand customer demand before committing resources to production. His emphasis on local markets, fast-moving agricultural products and reliable demand helps farmers reduce unnecessary production risks and build enterprises around commercial opportunity rather than simply producing without a defined market. Through “Farm with Fred,” he has expanded his influence beyond his own farming operations, using digital media and agricultural training to reach farmers and aspiring agripreneurs across East Africa and beyond. His work demonstrates how technology and digital communication can be used to make practical agricultural knowledge more accessible to a wider farming community. Fred's broader vision is rooted in African food self-sufficiency and sustainable agricultural development. He advocates for an Africa that increasingly produces the food it consumes while creating profitable opportunities for farmers and strengthening local food systems. Through his combination of agronomic expertise, commercial farming experience, entrepreneurship and digital influence, Fred Munene is helping reshape perceptions of farming among a new generation of African farmers. His work continues to demonstrate that agriculture can be both commercially viable and environmentally responsible when supported by innovation, market intelligence and practical knowledge.

Grace Musa is an agribusiness entrepreneur and the driving force behind Discovery Coin Pvt Ltd, a thriving Grace Dudzai Musa is a dynamic young agricultural enterprise based in Melfort. Through her passion for farming and community development, she has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for many families. Under her leadership, Discovery Coin Pvt Ltd has established successful horticultural operations in both greenhouse and open-field production, cultivating a wide range of crops including tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, lettuce, various vegetables, oyster mushrooms, and button mushrooms. Her commitment to excellence has transformed the farm into a model of sustainable agricultural production. Beyond farming, Grace has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to social responsibility. She spearheaded the construction of modern, fully furnished houses for farm workers, ensuring they enjoy comfortable living conditions comparable to those found in standard homes. Recognizing the importance of education, she further extended support to workers' families and the surrounding community by providing school fees, stationery, and school uniforms for children. Through her visionary leadership, compassion, and dedication to empowering others, Grace Dudzai Musa continues to change lives, strengthen communities, and inspire the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe.

MandB Biocircular farms is championed by Masoma Iya Malike Moto who's deeply rooted in creating sustainable, real-world impact through a biocircular intergrated agribusiness, they transform agricultural waste into value, integrating livestock and crop production to eliminate inefficiencies.As a startup their intergrated approach have been recognized by several Agricultural organizations including mentorship from PAFO-FAO,(pan African farmers organization and food and agriculture organization)the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) RLC, and the Jim Leech MasterCard Foundation These global networks have refined their approach to leadership and intergrated agri-entrepreneurship.

Bushira Saanpograwwo Abbas is an agribusiness expert, farmer, youth trainer, and the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bushara Bustan, a Ghanaian agribusiness dedicated to advancing food security through sustainable agriculture, practical farmer training, and youth empowerment. She holds an MPhil in Environmental Science from the University of Ghana, where she specialized in environmental sustainability and climate resilience. She also holds a Higher National Diploma in Bilingual Secretarial Studies and a Certificate in French Language Proficiency from the Ghana Institute of Languages, giving her a strong foundation in communication, administration, and leadership. Inspired by the need to grow more food, make it accessible and affordable, Bushira invested her National Service savings to establish a one-acre pineapple farm, which has since grown into Bushara Bustan. Today, the organization combines diverse crop production including pineapples, cassava, tomatoes, chilli pepper, ginger etc and still on a mission to produce more cops and expand her scale. Coupled with free agricultural training and consultancy, equipping young people and aspiring farmers with practical skills while promoting climate-smart agriculture. Bushira is committed to building an agricultural sector rooted in integrity, innovation, and long-term impact, creating opportunities that strengthen food security and improve livelihoods across Ghana and Africa.

Azeezat Olatunji is the Founder of Foodheroes Agribusiness Industry, an agripreneur, agricultural consultant, and youth development advocate committed to promoting sustainable agriculture and food security in Nigeria. She specializes in plantain and banana macropropagation, Black Soldier Fly (BSF) production, climate-smart agriculture, and agribusiness development. Through her work, she has trained and mentored hundreds of young people, farmers, and students, equipping them with practical agricultural and entrepreneurial skills. Azeezat is passionate about empowering youth and women, advancing sustainable food systems, and creating innovative agricultural solutions that improve livelihoods and strengthen communities.

Founder of Nthawifarms an agribusiness innovation aimed at livestock, crop and organic fertilizer production. The farm is committed to sustainable agriculture, food security and environmental conservation, it also promote agriculture by providing practical skills and knowledge to different community members, fresh graduates through internships and some agricultural professionals from chiteze research station and abroad.

Colin and Mandy Langton are prominent Zimbabwean agriculturalists and cattle breeders who own and operate Langton Cattle Company in the Trelawney area of Zvimba District. They have established a strong reputation within Zimbabwe's livestock industry through their commitment to stud breeding, cattle genetics and the development of hardy, high-quality beef cattle. The Langtons are particularly recognised for their work with the Boran breed through Langton Borans, operating under stud prefix BN11. Their breeding programme reflects a strong focus on improving cattle quality, resilience and performance, while also exploring strategic integration of Mashona and Angoni genetics. Their contribution to the livestock sector extends beyond their own farming operation. Colin serves as a Senior Inspector with the Zimbabwe Boran Breeders Society, while Mandy manages Inspections, giving the couple an important role in maintaining breeding standards and supporting the development of the Boran breed in Zimbabwe. Through their work in stud breeding and cattle genetics, Colin and Mandy have contributed to the advancement of Zimbabwe's beef cattle industry and the promotion of breeds suited to local production conditions. Their approach places emphasis on producing resilient animals capable of performing under the country's diverse farming environments. The Langtons have also achieved significant recognition through their performance in national and regional livestock competitions. Their cattle have received major accolades, including winning prominent Fatstock Competitions, demonstrating the quality and commercial potential of their breeding programme. Their farming operation has attracted considerable interest from the agricultural community and media, with their approach to breeding and cattle production being featured by agricultural organisations and on national television. These platforms have helped showcase the potential of progressive livestock breeding and the role of genetics in building a stronger and more productive beef industry. Through their combined expertise, industry involvement and commitment to cattle breeding, Colin and Mandy Langton continue to make a meaningful contribution to Zimbabwe's livestock sector and the advancement of high-quality, locally adapted beef genetics.

Mitchel Tinashe Nhundu is a Zimbabwean agribusiness professional, agricultural economist, and entrepreneur with expertise in agricultural marketing, farmer market linkages, and digital agribusiness solutions. She holds an Honours Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Economics and Management from Bindura University of Science Education and currently serves as a Sales & Marketing Specialist at Digital Agritech Consultancy. She is the founder of Agrinova Investment Pvt Limited and creator of AgriNova360, a platform dedicated to connecting farmers with markets, agricultural services, and business opportunities across Zimbabwe. Through her work, she promotes sustainable agriculture, irrigation development, market access, and the use of digital platforms to improve smallholder farmer participation in commercial agriculture.

Issa Hamadi is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Avotunda Growers Limited, the company behind the Avotunda brand, a Tanzanian agribusiness focused on premium avocado production, aggregation, value addition, and international exports. He is committed to building sustainable agricultural value chains that empower smallholder farmers while delivering high-quality products to global markets. His vision is to position Tanzania among the leading suppliers of premium avocados and avocado-based products through innovation, quality, and responsible business practices.

Michael Mugani is an experienced agribusiness and agricultural value-chain professional with more than 20 years of experience building connections between smallholder farmers and formal agricultural markets while helping agro-processors secure reliable supplies of quality raw materials. His career has focused on strengthening agricultural value chains across Zimbabwe, Zambia and the wider SADC region. He has extensive experience designing and managing contract-farming and out-grower schemes that bring together large networks of smallholder farmers and agro-processing businesses, creating structured relationships that support production, market access and commercial growth. Michael's experience spans a diverse range of agricultural value chains. His work has included baked-bean and fruit canning at Cashel Valley and Montgomery Processors, chia, quinoa and moringa export value chains at Amatheon Agri in Zambia, and tomato, guava and mango supply at Best Fruit Processors. At Amatheon Agri, he helped coordinate a network of approximately 5,000 smallholder farmers cultivating around 8,000 hectares for export-oriented value chains. This experience strengthened his expertise in managing complex farmer networks while ensuring that agricultural production is aligned with the quality, volume and timing requirements of commercial markets. Michael brings together commercial agribusiness expertise, development and agricultural finance experience, and practical agronomic knowledge. His professional background encompasses procurement, marketing and business development across the seed, horticulture and agro-processing sectors, alongside experience structuring partnerships between financial institutions, NGOs and farmers to facilitate access to finance, inputs and reliable markets. His technical foundation is equally strong. With hands-on experience in farm and technical management, extension and agronomy, Michael understands agricultural production from the farm level through to processing and market delivery. This combination enables him to bridge the gap between the commercial requirements of processors and the realities faced by smallholder farmers. He holds a BSc in Agriculture and a first-class Diploma in Agriculture, as well as an Executive Certificate in Microfinance and Entrepreneurship. He is currently completing an MSc in Agribusiness Systems Management and Development. At the centre of Michael's work is a commitment to reducing the transaction costs that constrain agricultural financing, production and marketing in the region. By creating stronger connections between farmers, financiers, processors and markets, he works to build agricultural systems in which farmers can earn more, processors can grow sustainably and food value chains become more resilient. Through more than two decades of experience, Michael Mugani has established himself as a specialist in contract farming, out-grower models, agricultural value-chain finance and agro-processing supply chains, with a strong regional focus on Zimbabwe, Zambia and the broader SADC agricultural economy.

Lesly Marange is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Glytime Foods (Pvt) Ltd, a Zimbabwean health-foods manufacturer he established in 2018 with an explicit nutritional mission: to make genuinely healthy food affordable and accessible across Africa, and to help families prevent and manage diet-related disease. That mission is personal and professional. A food scientist by training, Lesly holds a BSc in Food Science and Technology from Chinhoyi University of Technology and an MSc in Strategic Management from the National University of Science and Technology, and completed the Stanford Seed programme at Stanford University. His technical grounding sits at the centre of everything Glytime makes: products are formulated to real nutritional standards — high in fibre, lower in sugar, plant-based, and free of unnecessary additives — rather than marketed as healthy without substance. Under his leadership, Glytime has grown from roasting corn and nuts at 8 kg a day into an automated manufacturer producing more than 20 clean-label health products — granola, high-fibre oat cookies, rolled oats, honey, plant-based protein alternatives and more — sold through over 400 retail outlets across Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Mozambique, reaching an estimated hundreds of thousands of consumers. He has built the business around food safety and quality control as core disciplines, applying rigorous standards across roasting, blending and packaging so that clean-label claims are backed by consistent, safe, high-quality product. Lesly's distinctive contribution as a nutrition and food-safety champion is combining food science, local sourcing and affordability — proving that nutritious, safe, well-made food can be produced in Africa, from African crops, at prices ordinary families can afford, and to a standard that competes with the best imported brands.

General Manager of SOMMAC SARL, an agribusiness company based in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He works to develop sustainable agricultural value chains, promote local processing of agricultural products, and combat food insecurity and malnutrition. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree. He also holds certifications in financial management, agribusiness, and business development. His expertise covers food processing, food security, rural development, project management, innovation, and the mobilization of international partnerships. Under his leadership, SOMMAC SARL develops high-value-added products from locally sourced raw materials, including fortified flours, infant cereals, and products made from soybeans, cassava, maize, oil palm, and other strategic crops. The company also supports smallholder farmers in improving their productivity and incomes while strengthening their access to national and regional markets. SOMMAC’s vision is to contribute to Africa’s food sovereignty by promoting inclusive, innovative, and environmentally responsible agribusiness industrialization. The company aligns its activities with the objectives of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Key skills and qualifications include: Strategic leadership and agribusiness management Processing and value addition of locally produced agricultural products Nutrition, food security, and malnutrition prevention Development of inclusive agricultural value chains Project management, fundraising, and international partnerships Innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development Through his commitment to innovation, job creation, and improving the livelihoods of rural communities, Dieudonné KEBA and SOMMAC SARL embody the values of excellence, social impact, and sustainable development recognized by the 2026 Africa Agribusiness Excellence Award. The award recognizes innovative, sustainable, and high-impact African projects in the agriculture and food sectors.

Barbara Chirima is an entrepreneur based in Harare and the founder of Fountain Rose Pvt Ltd, a lifestyle brand specializing in urban flower farming, bespoke floral design and bloom bar experiences. She is passionate about blending creativity with sustainability, producing locally grown edible and cut flowers and transforming them into elegant event experiences and premium products. Through Fountain Rose, Barbara has developed a distinctive approach that integrates urban flower farming with experiential services, serving both individual and corporate clients. Her work is driven by a commitment to quality, innovation, and creating memorable, nature-inspired experiences. Barbara’s vision is to grow Fountain Rose into a leading brand in floral design and lifestyle products, while contributing to sustainable agriculture and the creative economy.

Steven Takavada is a Zimbabwean youth development advocate, agribusiness enthusiast, and Operations Director of Active Passion for Development (APD). He is passionate about empowering young people through entrepreneurship, agriculture, innovation, leadership, and community development. Steven leads initiatives that connect youth with practical skills, business opportunities, and sustainable development programs, while promoting positive social and economic transformation across communities. His vision is to inspire a generation of young leaders who create lasting impact through innovation, collaboration, and service.

Takudzwa Ashley Mulambo is a climate action and environmental management professional with six years of specialized experience in the **Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use (AFOLU)** sector. His work is focused on developing practical, community-centred solutions that strengthen climate resilience, promote sustainable land management and support inclusive economic development for communities facing environmental challenges. His professional approach combines expertise in **agroforestry, biodiversity conservation, inclusive innovation and environmental management** with strong operational and business acumen. He has supported executives, managers, sales teams and farmers in improving internal operations while advancing solutions that balance ecological sustainability with economic viability. Mulambo has built a growing international profile through his participation in high-level climate, biodiversity, forestry and sustainable development dialogues. His engagements have taken him across Africa, Asia and other global regions, including participation in the **UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh**, the **China International Import Expo in Shanghai**, the **Kubuqi International Desert Forum in Inner Mongolia**, and international forestry and biodiversity conferences in Japan. His contributions have earned significant recognition, including the **2024 UNCCD Land Hero Award**, the **2023 Global Start-up Awards Southern Africa Regional Winner**, the **2023 YPARD AgriYouth Africa Hackathon Award**, the **2022 RUFORUM Award for Outstanding Contribution to Entrepreneurship Development in Africa**, and the **2022 POTRAZ Hackathon Award**. Beyond his professional work, Mulambo is actively involved in youth engagement and capacity building. Through **Forestry & Citrus Research**, he has supported young people to participate in programmes focused on restoration, innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development. His work reflects a commitment to equipping the next generation with the knowledge and opportunities needed to become active contributors to Africa's environmental and economic transformation. ### Key Milestones

Niwael Jerome Manongi is a 28-year-old professional with a background in forestry and natural resource management. She has experience in agribusiness development, with practical expertise in sustainable production systems, value chain coordination, and climate-resilient agricultural interventions. She has strong field-based experience in productivity enhancement with environmental stewardship through soil health management, agroforestry integration, and farmer capacity strengthening. Niwael is focused on advancing agribusiness models that link smallholder production with market access while embedding conservation principles into day-to-day agricultural practices. She is recognized for applying structured field implementation approaches, data-driven reporting, and collaborative engagement with rural farming communities.

Yemurai Mhaka is a young Zimbabwean dairy farmer, entrepreneur, youth leader, and Information Systems student passionate about transforming agriculture through innovation and empowering young people, especially women. She is the founder of Yem’s Dairy, a growing dairy enterprise that started with one indigenous cow in 2025.Through resilience, learning, and hard work, she has expanded her farming journey while inspiring others to see agriculture as a pathway to sustainable livelihoods. Yemu now milks 5 dairy breed cows, and also actively participate in sunflower production andpastures, demonstrating the power of innovation and determination in building sustainable farming enterprises. She holds a Diploma in Telecommunications Engineering and is developing the Smart Dairy Market System, a digital solution aimed at improving transparency, traceability, fairness, and market access for dairy farmers in Zimbabwe. She participated in the iMoved Project under the Embassy of Sweden in Harare, implemented by We Effect Southern Africa in partnership with ZADF and Women and Land in Zimbabwe, gaining valuable support that contributed to her growth in dairy farming. As the leader of Unstoppable Youth PBC, a registered youth organisation, Yemurai advocates for youth participation in agriculture and continues to prove that women can own livestock, lead businesses, and succeed in male-dominated sectors.

Alieu Ceesay: Alieu Ceesay is a young Gambian agripreneur and founder of Harvest Harmony Farms, an emerging agricultural enterprise focused on sustainable crop production and youth-driven agribusiness development. With a passion for transforming agriculture into a profitable venture, he has gained practical experience in vegetable production, farm management, and agricultural entrepreneurship. Through hands-on farming activities, Alieu is demonstrating that young Africans can create opportunities, improve food production, and contribute to the growth of the agrifood sector.

Amanda is an ambitious and results-driven emerging commercial horticultural producer, and the Founder of HISA Agri Pvt Ltd. Her enterprise specialises in the year-round production of high-quality crops including tomatoes, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, red cabbages, and a variety of other fresh vegetables. Her standout achievement lies in her consistent tomato production, which has enabled HISA Agri to supply the market reliably throughout the year, even during periods of national shortage. This remarkable consistency and commitment to quality have earned her business recognition as a preferred supplier among wholesalers, retailers, vendors, and consumers alike. Beyond primary production, Amanda has demonstrated forward-thinking innovation and value addition.

Jocelyne Agbo is a social entrepreneur, agribusiness executive, and rural development leader with over 12 years of experience advancing climate-smart agriculture, financial inclusion, gender equality, and sustainable livelihoods across Nigeria. As Founder and CEO of Farm On Wheels, she has built an innovative agribusiness supporting over 23,000 smallholder farmers, more than 60% of whom are women, through input financing, irrigation, extension services, aggregation, market access, and digital innovation. She is leading the development of UBI, a digital agricultural ecosystem, and Farm On Wheels Wellness, creating resilient agricultural value chains that connect African producers to premium global markets.

Tatenda Musasa is a farmer and an agripreneur from Zimbabwe passionate about contributing to a more food-secure, sustainable, and prosperous Zimbabwe through agriculture, innovation, and community empowerment. She believes agriculture is not only about feeding communities, but also about creating opportunities, improving livelihoods, and driving economic growth. As the founder of Eden Haven Barn Pvt Ltd, Tatenda is transforming access to fresh produce by providing premium, hygienically packaged farm-fresh produce delivered directly to customers while supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Her hands-on experience as a farmer gives her a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the agricultural value chain. Her passion for impact-driven entrepreneurship has led her to participate in prestigious continental and international programmes. She was a successful participant in a program facilitated by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and funded by the Arabic Bank for Economic Development in Africa on Accelerating Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Livelihoods through the Development of Small and Medium Agribusiness Enterprises for Women and youths in Zimbabwe. Tatenda is also a member of the African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative Alumnae Network (AAN), a network of women entrepreneurs across 53 African countries.Currently She is participating in an International Start to Scale Programme facilitated by Food Startup Inkubator Weihenstephan( Germany), where she is developing innovative and scalable food business solutions. Through resilience, leadership, and a strong commitment to sustainable development, Tatenda continues to inspire and empower communities by using agriculture as a tool for transformation, food security, and economic growth.

write to nominate Ehiagwina Joy Patrick for an Agribusiness leadership award. Patjeda is a group of company with diverse business of which Patosehi Farm is one of it. A registered company and has been existing for couple of years and I known for producing agriculture products for consumers consumption. Patosehi specialises in selling and exporting quality seafood, bush/jumbo snails, and organic vegetables. The business distributes within Nigeria, alongside international export services to locations like the US and UK Attached is her profile and a headshot Key achievements/professional milestone: Ehiagwina Joy Patrick is an award-winning Nigerian business executive, philanthropist, and cultural leader who serves as the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Patjeda Group of Companies Limited. Widely nicknamed “Group Captain” for her strategic foresight, she has successfully expanded the Patjeda Group into a multi-sector powerhouse with thriving operations across executive car rentals, logistics, security solutions, hospitality, and entertainment. Corporate Leadership & Business MilestonesSteered Patjeda Group into a rapidly growing multi-sector corporate conglomerate.Managed diversified subsidiaries spanning executive trans

Nompumelelo (Mpumi) Maesela is an accomplished agribusiness entrepreneur, business leader, and strategic investor with over 15 years of experience across agriculture, corporate finance, investment strategy, business development, and sustainable enterprise development. As the founder and leader of SE Holdings, Mpumi has demonstrated the ability to identify opportunities within South Africa's agricultural sector and transform them into commercially sustainable businesses. Her entrepreneurial approach is centred on developing integrated agricultural solutions that connect farmers, finance, infrastructure, production, processing, and markets, while creating opportunities for employment and inclusive economic participation. Mpumi's entrepreneurial strengths include: Agribusiness development and entrepreneurship Strategic business and investment planning Corporate finance and financial structuring Agricultural value-chain development Business development and commercialisation Feasibility studies and investment opportunity assessment Strategic partnerships and stakeholder management Farmer and enterprise development Sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship Market development and commercialisation Project implementation and execution Women and youth economic empowerment. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) and a Higher Diploma in Taxation from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). She further holds a Masters Degree in Leadership and Strategy with Distinction from IE Business School in Madrid, Spain and is currently pursuing a Masters in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) at the University of Pretoria. She is also a 2024 Stanford Seed Programme graduate. Her combination of financial acumen, strategic leadership, agricultural expertise, and entrepreneurial drive has enabled her to build SE Holdings into a business with a growing footprint and measurable impact across South Africa's agricultural sector.

Innocent Antoine Houedji is a Beninese land governance expert, economist, and civic-tech innovator. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Youth Initiative for Land in Africa (YILAA), a pan-African network operating in more than 25 African countries to strengthen land rights for youth and women. He leads the development of Ardhi HUB and co-developed the Kanuni Mobile App, digital platforms that improve access to land information, legal resources, and secure land administration for farmers and rural communities. Previously, he served at Benin's National Agency for Domain and Land (ANDF) and contributed to the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Land Access Project. He has also held regional leadership roles with the International Land Coalition (ILC) Africa and is a NELGA alumnus, recognized internationally for advancing digital innovation and inclusive land governance across Africa.

Lanre Awojoodu is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sourcing and Produce Ltd., a leading African agricultural export company with operations across Nigeria, the USA, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia. After scaling exports from zero to over 30 countries, he faced significant financial losses during the Ukraine-Russia War. Rather than retreat, he rebuilt the business, growing export reach to 38+ countries and revenue from $7M in 2024 to $11M in 2025, a direct, measurable turnaround under his leadership. A, B.Sc. Accounting graduate of the University of Lagos and MBA holder from Obafemi Awolowo University, Awojoodu brought discipline from an earlier career as an ERP consultant into an industry often run informally. Today, Sourcing and Produce trades over 2,000 metric tons of produce across 10 product categories, serves 39 active customers, and has grown its workforce by 48%, creating direct employment and opportunity for African youth. Beyond his own company, Awojoodu founded the Sourcing and Produce Farmers' Co-operative, connecting smallholder farmers across five African countries to international markets, and secured a $1M trade finance facility from Sahel Capital to expand hibiscus sourcing

Muhammad Yakubu Bubayaro is a Nigerian agribusiness leader, food systems innovator, and post-harvest management expert dedicated to transforming Africa's agricultural value chains through market-driven innovation and sustainable agribusiness solutions. He is the Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Bunkasa Agritech Limited, Executive Director of the Infrastructure Network for Africa Food Systems (INAFS), Director of Agribusiness & ICT at Mile 12 International Market(West Africa's largest fresh produce market), and National Coordinator of the National Tomato Growers, Processors, Transporters and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NATPAN). With expertise spanning post-harvest loss reduction, market infrastructure development, agritech innovation, value chain management, digital agriculture, and agricultural policy, Muhammad has successfully led transformative initiatives that improve market efficiency, strengthen farmer resilience, and increase incomes for smallholder producers. Through strategic partnerships with organizations including GAIN, CGIAR, IITA, IFPRI, IFDC, government institutions, and the private sector, he has championed innovative solutions such as reusable plastic crates, modern aggregation centres, greenhouse seedling production, solar drying technologies, and digital market systems. His work continues to advance sustainable food systems, improve food security, and reduce post-harvest losses across Nigeria.

Tah Magdalene Nchang is an agribusiness advocate, youth development leader, and agricultural communicator dedicated to transforming Africa's food systems through innovation, value addition, and youth empowerment. Recognized as a Post-Harvest Queen and ranked among the Top 4 Agri-Influencers in Cameroon, she has distinguished herself as a passionate voice for reducing post-harvest losses, promoting sustainable agriculture, and creating opportunities for young people in agribusiness. She has also served as a two-time ambassador for agribusiness initiatives, championing entrepreneurship, leadership, and agricultural transformation. As the founder of the Youth Agribusiness Development Program (YADP), Magdalene works to empower young people with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to thrive in the agricultural sector. Her advocacy extends beyond production to value addition, agri-finance, and the integration of data and innovation into agriculture. Through her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to impact, Magdalene continues to inspire a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs and changemakers while contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future for African agriculture. Her dedication, innovation, and growing contribution to agriculture position her as one of the most promising emerging agricultural leaders in Cameroon, making her a deserving recipient of the Emerging Farmer Recognition Award.

Deola Balogun Professional Profile Deola Balogun is an agrifood industry leader and food systems practitioner focused on building scalable food processing systems that strengthen food security, reduce post-harvest losses and improve the efficiency of agricultural value chains across Nigeria. She currently serves as Chief Operating Officer at Limlim Foods Production Ltd., where she leads the operations of Nigeria’s first indigenous freeze-drying food company. Her work addresses a critical challenge facing Nigeria’s agricultural sector: the limited processing and storage infrastructure required to convert abundant agricultural production into reliable, value-added food products. At Limlim Foods, Deola is responsible for helping design and scale food processing systems that transform perishable agricultural commodities into shelf-stable, locally produced ingredients and food products. The company’s portfolio includes freeze-dried fruit ingredients, pasteurised egg powders and ready-to-eat meals designed to improve convenience, nutrition and product longevity. Her work sits at the intersection of manufacturing, food security and value-chain development. By strengthening local processing capacity, she contributes to reducing food waste, improving the utilisation of locally produced agricultural commodities and creating dependable sourcing pathways for SMEs, FMCGs and institutional buyers. Her approach focuses on building systems that can withstand market volatility while creating greater reliability between producers, processors and consumers. Before moving into the agrifood sector, Deola spent more than a decade with leading multinational companies including Unilever, Cadbury and Kraft Foods, where she gained extensive experience in commercial and operational transformation across manufacturing operations in West Africa. During this period, she worked across complex supply chains, improved business margins, supported double-digit growth and helped align innovation with operational capabilities. She now applies this corporate and manufacturing experience to the development of Nigeria’s food processing infrastructure. Her leadership combines commercial discipline with a strong understanding of operational realities, enabling her to translate agricultural opportunities into scalable food manufacturing solutions. Deola also contributes to conversations involving founders, investors, development partners and policymakers on the practical challenges of scaling food systems. Her focus is on what is required to move agricultural commodities efficiently from harvest to shelf while creating sustainable commercial opportunities throughout the value chain. Through her leadership, Deola Balogun is contributing to the development of a more resilient Nigerian food system, where local agricultural production is increasingly supported by the processing infrastructure, technology and commercial pathways required to create lasting value.

Ms. Gaolatlhe Bvumbe is the Founder and Managing Director of The A&G Farmstead, a poultry enterprise committed to producing quality farm-fresh products while advancing sustainable agriculture and community impact in Botswana. Since establishing the business in 2017, she has built and sustained one of the leading egg production enterprises in Ghanzi District through disciplined business management, resilience, and a long-term vision for agricultural growth. The enterprise currently operates a commercial layer unit averaging 1,200–1,300 laying hens, achieving an average daily laying performance of 70–80% and producing approximately 25,000–31,000 eggs per month depending on production cycles. Through consistent production and reliable supply, The A&G Farmstead serves households and institutional clients while contributing meaningfully to local food security, nutrition, and agricultural development within the district. A resilient and forward-thinking agripreneur, Ms. Bvumbe successfully sustained and grew operations through the challenges of the COVID-19 period while continuing to support her community. During this time, she donated eggs to schools and vulnerable families, demonstrating a commitment to social impact and nutrition beyond commercial success. In 2023, she diversified the business into small stock farming and currently maintains a herd averaging 175–200 animals, with natural seasonal fluctuations resulting from breeding cycles and herd management. This expansion strengthened enterprise resilience and broadened the farm’s contribution to local agricultural production. Under her leadership, The A&G Farmstead supports employment through two permanent and four seasonal positions while creating economic opportunities across the agricultural value chain. Beyond production, Ms. Bvumbe is passionate about empowering others through mentorship and practical leadership. She actively supports aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women in agriculture, encouraging sustainable business development and demonstrating the possibilities within modern African agribusiness. Ms. Bvumbe holds a Bachelor of Finance (BFin) and continues to pursue opportunities that strengthen her expertise at the intersection of finance, climate resilience, and sustainable agribusiness. Her journey reflects resilience, innovation, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to agricultural transformation—making her a deserving candidate for the Poultry Production Excellence Award 2026

A passionate agribusiness entrepreneur dedicated to improving food security, sustainable farming, and agricultural value chains. Experienced in livestock production, poultry farming which includes broilers and layers, agribusiness marketing, and customer relations, with a strong commitment to empowering farmers through innovative and practical solutions. Focused on building profitable, sustainable agricultural enterprises while creating employment opportunities and supporting community development.

A Veterinarian from MAKERERE University with a strong passion for poultry production, public health, and agricultural extension. Currently serve as the Founder, MD & CEO of AgriCore Poultry Pro Partners Limited, an initiative dedicated to improving poultry productivity through farmer trainings, Biosecurity Education, Disease Prevention, and evidence-based management practices. My work focuses on bridging the gap between technical poultry knowledge and practical farmer application. Through community engagement, farm visits, trainings, digital publications, and content creation, I help farmers adopt better management practices that reduce losses and improve profitability. I have hands-on experience in: 1. Poultry health and disease prevention (vaccination, biosecurity, postmortem analysis) 2. Farmer training and extension services 3. Meat inspection and animal welfare 4. Agricultural communication and publications (WhatsApp channels, LinkedIn, Tik Tok) Beyond poultry, I am deeply interested in agricultural publications, science communication, and knowledge translation, using simple language and digital platforms to empower farmers and young agripreneurs. I believe sustainable livestock production starts with education, collaboration, and responsible animal health management.

Mr. Shungu Kazingizi is a dedicated renewable energy professional committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions in Zimbabwe's agricultural sector. As a key member of the Farmstead Renewable Energy team, he has played a significant role in designing, promoting, and implementing clean energy technologies that improve productivity, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the livelihoods of farming communities. His work focuses on the installation and promotion of biogas digesters, solar energy systems, solar water pumping solutions, and other renewable energy technologies that provide reliable and affordable energy for farms, institutions, and rural households. Through his technical expertise and hands-on approach, Mr. Kazingizi has successfully supported numerous renewable energy projects that contribute to climate-smart agriculture and sustainable rural development. Beyond project implementation, he is passionate about knowledge sharing and capacity building. He actively trains farmers, youth, and community groups on renewable energy technologies, encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly practices that improve energy access while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Recognized for his professionalism, innovation, and commitment to excellence, Mr. Kazingizi continues to champion renewable energy solutions that empower communities, strengthen agricultural productivity, and contribute to Zimbabwe's transition toward a greener and more sustainable future

Tapuwanashe Allin Manyange is an award-winning agribusiness leader, entrepreneur, youth advocate, and development practitioner serving as the Founder and National Chairperson of Youth & Women in Farming for Economic Development (YWF4ED), a national agricultural organisation operating across all ten provinces of Zimbabwe. She leads a growing movement dedicated to empowering youth and women through agriculture, agribusiness development, entrepreneurship, climate-smart farming, and food security initiatives. Under her leadership, YWF4ED has trained and mentored over 500 young people through agricultural bootcamps, practical field demonstrations, and free 10-week agribusiness cohort programmes designed to equip participants with commercial farming and business management skills. Tapuwanashe is also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Agrifeed Africa, an agribusiness enterprise focused on agricultural development, irrigation solutions, value addition, market access, and high-value crop production. Through her work, she has championed agriculture as a vehicle for employment creation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development. Academically, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (Cum Laude), a Master of Science in Project Monitoring, Evaluation and Strategy. Her academic foundation strengthens her ability to design impactful programmes, build strategic partnerships, and drive sustainable agricultural development. A respected speaker and advocate for youth participation in agriculture, Tapuwanashe has represented Zimbabwe on national, regional, and international platforms. Her work actively contributes to Zimbabwe's Vision 2030, National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), and the African Union's Malabo Declaration on agricultural transformation.

Marvellous Festus is the Founder and CEO of Cashew Her Nigeria, a women-led agribusiness focused on the cashew value chain, from sourcing and processing to value addition and export readiness. Passionate about empowering women farmers and reducing post-harvest losses, Marvellous has worked with female smallholder farmers in Niger State to improve market access and create sustainable income opportunities. A participant of the 3MTT and YLDP programmes, Marvellous is committed to building an innovative African agribusiness that delivers quality cashew products while creating jobs, promoting food security, and expanding Nigeria's presence in global agricultural markets.

Kimberly Nyasha Kachidza is a Zimbabwean entrepreneur, social innovator, and agribusiness leader dedicated to transforming how farmers access finance across Africa. As Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Verdian Ag, she is pioneering a new generation of agricultural risk intelligence infrastructure that helps financial institutions better understand, assess, and support farmers who have historically been excluded from formal financial systems. Her work addresses one of the most persistent challenges facing African agriculture: the inability of financial institutions to accurately assess agricultural risk among farmers who lack traditional collateral, formal records, or established credit histories. Through technology, innovation, and a deep commitment to inclusion, Kimberly is helping create pathways for underserved farmers to access opportunities that were previously beyond their reach. Kim she graduated from the University of Zimbabwe with a degree in Social Innovation and Community Development. Her academic background, combined with her passion for inclusive development, shaped her understanding of the structural barriers preventing many African farmers from participating fully in formal economies. Recognizing that many capable farmers are denied access to finance not because they lack potential, but because institutions lack reliable information about them, Kimberly co- founded Verdian Ag to bridge this information gap. Since its inception, she has led the company's strategy, partnerships, fundraising efforts, stakeholder engagement, and growth initiatives while helping shape its vision of building agricultural trust infrastructure for Africa. Verdian Ag is an agricultural risk intelligence platform that combines satellite data, artificial intelligence, farmer history, agronomic intelligence, and evidence verification to generate lender-ready risk assessments. The platform enables financial institutions, insurers, agribusinesses, and development organizations to make more informed agricultural financing decisions by transforming fragmented farmer information into structured, explainable, and auditable credit intelligence. Verdian Ag is built specifically for African agricultural realities, where critical information often exists in informal formats such as: • WhatsApp conversations • Receipts and invoices • PDFs and spreadsheets • Handwritten records • Local-language farmer interviews • Images and supporting evidence Rather than excluding farmers because they lack formal records, Verdian Ag helps make their performance, history, and potential visible to institutions

John Roy Komichi is an agronomist, agribusiness leader, and rural enterprise development practitioner dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe. He is the Managing Director of Lakefront Fresh Produce Private Limited, an agribusiness company specializing in fresh produce production and supply, agricultural consultancy, value addition, and rural development. John works closely with farmers, communities, and agricultural stakeholders to promote climate-smart agriculture, conservation farming, and commercially sustainable production systems. His leadership focuses on strengthening agricultural productivity, improving market access, reducing post-harvest losses, and creating opportunities that enable rural households to build resilient livelihoods. Beyond commercial agriculture, he is committed to developing inclusive agricultural value chains that empower farmers through technical support, enterprise development, and practical innovation. His work reflects a belief that agriculture should not only produce food but also create lasting economic and social value for communities. In recognition of his contribution to rural enterprise development, John received the Silver Award in the Rural Enterprise Development Champion category at the Agribusiness Excellence Awards 2026, presented by the Global Agribusiness Professionals Institute. He continues to champion partnerships that drive agricultural transformation, food security, and sustainable rural development across Africa.

It is with great joy and deep respect that I write to nominate Nyasha Bangu for the HR and Talent Development Champion Award. SECTION B: LEADERSHIP & PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE: 17, 18 and 19. Mr. Bangu serves as the Director of Chipfuwo Agriscience Pvt. Limited, a company that has become a beacon of innovation in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. Through his leadership, Chipfuwo Agriscience has played a crucial role in bridging academic training with practical farming needs, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s agricultural workforce is equipped with modern, relevant skills. Under his stewardship, three key brands (www.chipfuwo.co.zw) — Chipfuwo Centre (Course Catalog Store - Chipfuwo Centre), Chipfuwo Recruitment Centre (Create Account - Job Board), and Chipfuwo Agriscience — have been instrumental in advancing talent development: Chipfuwo Centre: Provides structured e-learning courses and hands-on practical training. High school graduates are admitted into pre-college programs at Chipfuwo Centre in Chishawasha Harare, preparing them for future agriscience studies. The innovative program includes Farm Manager Practice that empowers young learners to take leadership roles in daily farm management activities. Chipfuwo Recruitment Centre: Operates a modern job board that connects employers with qualified talent. Recognizing the challenge of underqualified candidates in farm-related jobs, Mr. Bangu pioneered a six-month transition program to help graduates move from theoretical knowledge to practical farming expertise. Chipfuwo Agriscience: Partners with colleges and universities across Zimbabwe to provide meaningful internships. His consultancy has also collaborated with farmers to encourage the acceptance of interns, addressing a long-standing gap in agricultural training opportunities. In addition to these initiatives, Chipfuwo Agriscience has been actively recognising and rewarding excellence among young agriscience professionals and graduates. Through the Discipline and Excellence Awards and the Research and Innovation Awards, the company celebrates outstanding students from various colleges and universities across Zimbabwe. These awards not only motivate young people to pursue excellence but also highlight the importance of innovation and discipline in shaping the future of agriculture. Through these programmes and recognitions, Mr Bangu has demonstrated unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent, solving employment challenges, and ensuring that Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector thrives with skilled professionals. His vision and hands-on approach have created pathways for students and graduates to transition seamlessly into the workforce, making him a true champion of HR and talent development. I wholeheartedly recommend Nyasha Bangu for this prestigious award, confident that his contributions exemplify the spirit of innovation, mentorship, and sustainable talent growth.

SASA EMMANUEL JAMES is the Executive Director of Youth Action For Climate Change Organization volunteer leader of climate civics international, world food forum Youth representative for South Sudan, Global call focal point, member of YOUNGO Youth constituency to UNFCCC, MGCY, UNCCD Youth caucus, children and youth major group to UNEP, Great Green Wall Action K4GGWA, AU-EU Youth Network , Youth leader and climate change and environment advocacy from South Sudan, empowering youth, women, indigenous people and people with disabilities in climate action, biodiversity loss,land degradation neutrality, agriculture food system environmental conservation.

I am a young entrepreneur and innovation-driven project founder focused on advancing climate-smart agriculture through smart irrigation farming technology. My work centers on developing affordable, technology-enabled irrigation solutions that help farmers improve crop productivity, conserve water, and build resilience to climate change. I have experience in project development, youth leadership, and community engagement, with a strong interest in agritech, sustainability, and social impact. I am actively building partnerships, participating in innovation and entrepreneurship programmes, and strengthening my skills in technology, business development, and project management. My goal is to create scalable agricultural solutions that empower smallholder farmers, improve food security, generate employment, and contribute to sustainable rural development across Nigeria and Africa

Mr. Bezabeh A Birhan has built Bezabeh Feedlot, in Mojo, Oromia, into a working example of what environmental stewardship can look like on a commercial livestock operation. Rather than treating sustainability as an afterthought, he has made it a core part of how the farm runs  from the energy that powers it to the way waste moves through the system.At the center of this effort is a biogas extraction system paired with solar power generation, which together supply the electricity that runs the farm's day to day logistics and, just as importantly, powers the homes of the workers who live and work on the farm. Alongside this, Mr. Bezabeh has developed a waste-to-resource model that goes beyond his own operation: organic waste from his farm and from neighboring smallholder farms is captured and repurposed rather than left to pollute or go to waste, meaningfully reducing the environmental footprint of dairy farming in the surrounding area. The system doesn't stop at energy recovery ; the nutrient-rich byproduct left over from the biogas process is donated and used both on the farm and in the surrounding community to grow feed, restoring soil health and closing the loop between what the farm takes from the earth and what it gives back. It's a model of stewardship that treats waste not as a problem to manage, but as a resource to reclaim and return.This environmental commitment sits alongside a broader integration effort at the farm, where cattle, poultry, and aquaculture enterprises are being brought together into a single system designed to use resources more efficiently and reduce environmental strain across the board. And true to his belief that sustainability has to be shared to matter, Mr. Bezabeh extends this thinking into the community around him training smallholder livestock farmers, offering discounted and education-focused slaughterhouse services, and helping smallholder families access agricultural and formal education for their children. For Mr. Bezabeh, environmental responsibility isn't confined to the farm's boundaries ,it's a standard he's working to spread across the region.

David Olale is an Agricultural Economist and Agricultural Officer with the County Government of Siaya, Kenya, specializing in agribusiness development, climate-smart agriculture, sustainable land management, farmer organization strengthening, and value chain development. He is the Founder of AGRieco Foundation and AGRieco Smart Farm Supplies, organizations committed to empowering farmers through innovation, training, market linkages, and access to climate-resilient agricultural technologies. David has led and supported numerous community-based agricultural initiatives, including farmer field schools, SACCO and Farmer Producer Organization mobilization, soil conservation, pasture establishment, and agribusiness advisory services. His vision is to transform African agriculture into a profitable, sustainable, and youth-driven sector.

Antonnette P. Chingwe is a highly accomplished Policy, Governance and Research Specialist with over 14 years of progressive experience in policy development, strategic stakeholder engagement, business development, advocacy, research, and value chain transformation within Zimbabwe's agricultural and agribusiness sectors. She has built an outstanding reputation for driving evidence-based policy reforms, facilitating high-level negotiations, and fostering strategic partnerships that strengthen agricultural competitiveness, sustainability, and inclusive economic growth. Currently serving with the Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers (ZADF), Antonnette leads policy research, governance initiatives, stakeholder coordination, and advocacy programmes that influence the development of Zimbabwe's dairy industry. She actively contributes to global agricultural knowledge and benchmarking by compiling and analysing national dairy statistics, market intelligence, and economic performance data for international organisations including the IFCN Dairy Research Network and the Dairy Sustainability Framework (DSF). Antonnette holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and an Honours Degree- Bachelor of Business Studies. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Public Management and Policy.

Rufaro Alfred Gunundu is an accomplished agronomist with over 30 years of expertise in agricultural production and agribusiness management, including 20 years in senior management and executive leadership. Appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) in February 2025, he has successfully steered the Society into its 130th year of operations, delivering a record-setting premier National Show. Career Highlights Extensive experience across civil and private sectors, both locally and regionally, as an employee and consultant. Founder of a consultancy specializing in Horticulture, Floriculture, and Citrus. First black Zimbabwean International Nuffield Farming Scholar. Recognized for outstanding contributions to crop production and agribusiness innovation

Panashe Matokwe is a results-driven Business Development Officer in the Irrigation Department, with over five years of experience in irrigation technical sales and agricultural water management solutions. He specializes in developing and implementing efficient irrigation systems for commercial farms, smallholder farmers, horticultural projects, and greenhouse operations. With a strong understanding of irrigation design, system selection, product specification, and customer relationship management, Panashe has successfully assisted clients in improving water-use efficiency, crop productivity, and return on investment. His expertise spans drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, filtration, pumping solutions, fertigation systems, and solar-powered irrigation applications. Passionate about sustainable agriculture and business growth, Panashe is committed to providing innovative, cost-effective irrigation solutions while building long-term partnerships with farmers, agribusinesses, NGOs, and development organizations across Zimbabwe.

Kenneth Francis Udoaka is employed by The Ministry of Water & Sanitation (Nigeria) demonstrates a strong interest in the intersection between agriculture, entrepreneurship, economic development and public policy. His contribution reflects the importance of agriculture and agro-processing as drivers of inclusive economic growth in Nigeria. His experience spans Climate Change and Capacity Building.

I am pleased to nominate Mr. Innocent Mapfumo founder and CEO of Farmstead Group of Companies, for recognition in the Agribusiness Excellence Awards. Mr. Mapfumo has demonstrated outstanding commitment to agricultural development in Zimbabwe through his work in providing practical farming solutions, farm infrastructure development, livestock support services, and agribusiness advisory services. Through Farmstead, he has helped farmers improve productivity by promoting quality livestock housing structures, including goat pens, piggeries, poultry houses,bio gas and farm sheds etc His vision extends beyond traditional farming. He is actively working to connect local farmers with modern agricultural technologies, equipment suppliers, and international business opportunities. He is also promoting sustainable agricultural growth through training, guidance, and innovative agribusiness initiatives aimed at empowering rural communities. I am pleased to nominate Mr. Innocent Mapfumo founder and CEO of Farmstead Group of Companies, for recognition in the Agribusiness Excellence Awards. Mr. Mapfumo has demonstrated outstanding commitment to agricultural development in Zimbabwe through his work in providing practical farming solutions, farm infrastructure development, livestock support services, and agribusiness advisory services. Through Farmstead, he has helped farmers improve productivity by promoting quality livestock housing structures, including goat pens, piggeries, poultry houses,bio gas and farm sheds etc His vision extends beyond traditional farming. He is actively working to connect local farmers with modern agricultural technologies, equipment suppliers, and international business opportunities. He is also promoting sustainable agricultural growth through training, guidance, and innovative agribusiness initiatives aimed at empowering rural communities. Mr. Mapfumo's dedication to improving food security, supporting small-scale farmers, creating employment opportunities, and advancing agribusiness entrepreneurship makes him a worthy candidate for this award. His leadership continues to inspire positive change within Zimbabwe's agricultural sector. I strongly recommend Mr. Innocent Mapfumo for recognition in the Africa Agribusiness Excellence AwardsI strongly recommend Mr. Innocent Mapfumo for recognition in the Africa Agribusiness Excellence Awards

1. Founded BioSPACE GH LTD, an innovative agribusiness developing biodegradable moulded fibre packaging from plantain stems and sawdust. 2. Developed an environmentally sustainable solution that converts agricultural waste into value-added packaging while supporting climate action and circular economy principles. 3. Participated in leading entrepreneurship, innovation, and business development programmes focused on agribusiness and sustainability. 4. Built partnerships with farmers, community stakeholders, and industry actors to promote sustainable biomass sourcing and local value addition. 5. Championing green entrepreneurship by creating opportunities for youth employment and supporting environmentally responsible manufacturing in Ghana. 6. Positioned BioSPACE GH LTD for commercial growth with a vision to expand sustainable packaging solutions across Ghana and the wider African market.

Jackson Ngambi is a Malawi-based agribusiness entrepreneur building solutions across the farmer value chain. As founder of Lambano Agrisuppliers, we empower smallholder farmers with quality inputs and agronomy training. Through Sunrise Properties Hub Ltd, we connect commercial farmers to verified farmland, unlocking land access for expansion. With Mthandizi Creators, we provide tailored agri-loans to help farmers invest, grow, and repay from harvest. Together, these ventures address the 3 biggest barriers to African agriculture: inputs, land, and finance. Our mission is to make profitable, sustainable farming accessible for the next generation of African farmers