The African Food Systems Forum 2025 is still currently accepting nominations for the Africa Food Prize, with only eight days remaining until the June 27, 2025, deadline.
The award recognises individuals and organisations making significant contributions to transforming agriculture and food security in Africa.
The winner(s) will receive a $100,000 cash prize, increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to share knowledge in the field.
The Africa Food Prize is the highest honour bestowed for exceptional contributions to African agriculture.
Nominations are open to individuals, organizations, or groups that are working to advance agricultural solutions in Africa.
In addition to the $100,000 cash prize, winners will also receive a diploma and a trophy.
Tinotenda Mhiko, the CEO of the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) of Zimbabwe, was awarded the 2024 Africa Food Prize for his groundbreaking leadership and innovation in advancing food security through strategic irrigation initiatives.
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His work has transformed Zimbabwe’s food systems and serves as an inspiration for addressing food insecurity across Africa.
Under Mhiko’s leadership, ARDA has been instrumental in tackling some of Zimbabwe’s most pressing agricultural challenges, such as recurrent droughts, erratic rainfall, and widespread land degradation.
His innovative strategies have increased the area under irrigation from 6,000 hectares in 2016 to a projected 15,000 hectares by 2025, positioning ARDA as a model of sustainability and profitability in African agriculture.
By upgrading irrigation infrastructure and integrating advanced technologies like drip irrigation and solar-powered systems, Mhiko and ARDA have significantly improved water use efficiency, boosted crop yields, and strengthened resilience to climate change.
These achievements have enhanced food security and spurred economic development on a national level.
Under Mhiko’s vision, ARDA has also fostered a culture of collaboration and innovation, engaging stakeholders and building partnerships with government bodies, private sector players, and international development organisations.
His work represents a holistic and adaptive approach to irrigation that addresses technical, economic, and environmental aspects, setting a benchmark for agricultural transformation in Zimbabwe and beyond.
