By Ruth Egbe

As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect not only on a year of resilience and innovation but also on the strategic steps needed to transform Africa’s food and agriculture sector. Behind every meal served and every product launched are entrepreneurs who have faced daunting challenges—limited access to finance, unpredictable markets, and climate shocks—yet continue to rise above, turning obstacles into opportunities.

These entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of Africa’s food system. They are the smallholder farmers who produce 80% of Africa’s food, the processors who add value to raw materials, and the innovators leveraging technology to reduce post-harvest losses. Their efforts go beyond survival—they are shaping a future where Africa’s food system is resilient, sustainable, and inclusive.

Why the End-of-Year Entrepreneurs Mixer Matters

The African Food Changemakers (AFC) End-of-Year Entrepreneurs Mixer is more than a celebration—it is a strategic platform. While it honours the triumphs of food and agriculture entrepreneurs, it also sets the stage for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and actionable partnerships that strengthen Africa’s food ecosystem.

This event is a touchpoint for connection and strategy:

• For entrepreneurs, it’s an opportunity to gain visibility, attract investors, and learn from peers.

• For donors and investors, it’s a chance to witness impact firsthand and fund scalable solutions.

• For policymakers and stakeholders, it’s a platform to engage with the fundamental drivers of food system change.

The Bigger Picture

Africa’s food system is on the brink of transformation. With a population projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050 and a food market expected to hit $1 trillion by 2030, the opportunities are immense. Yet, challenges persist—climate change, infrastructure gaps, and financing barriers threaten progress. The Mixer is our response: a call to action to rally support for those building the future of food.

From Celebration to Strategy

Celebrating achievements is important, but strategy ensures sustainability. The Mixer is a celebration where vision meets action—where conversations lead to partnerships, and partnerships lead to solutions. It’s about moving from applause to impact, from recognition to resilience.

Why You Should Care

Every plate of food tells a story—of farmers who toil under the sun, of entrepreneurs who innovate against the odds, and of communities striving for food security. By supporting these changemakers, we unlock Africa’s agricultural potential, create jobs, reduce poverty, and ensure that no one goes hungry.

Join the Movement

The AFC End-of-Year Entrepreneurs Mixer is not just an event—it’s a movement. A movement to:

• Celebrate resilience and ingenuity.

• Connect with visionaries shaping Africa’s food future.

• Invest in solutions that transform lives.

Be part of this story.

• Partner with us to fund growth.

• Register to showcase your innovations.

• Learn more and join the transformation.

Together, we can create a food system that nourishes Africa and inspires the world.