By Chinweokwu Mmaju

Thirty women from ten countries, representing five categories, embarked on a unique and transformative journey. United by a shared passion and one woman's dream, they set out on an all-expenses-paid trip to the picturesque country of Rwanda. These thirty fellows, once strangers, now form a sisterhood that is likely to endure for a lifetime.  This is the essence of the Leading African Women in Food Fellowship, a community of like-minded women united in their mission.  

 Driven by the vision of increasing women's leadership in the agricultural sector, Ndidi Nwuneli, the founder of African Food Changemakers, founded the Leading African Women in Food Fellowship (LAWFF) in 2023. This fellowship is a beacon of hope, empowering women leaders in the African food and agriculture sector by amplifying their voices, increasing their visibility, and bridging the gender gap in leadership. The impact of LAWFF is not just empowering these women, but also bringing hope and optimism for a more inclusive and diverse future in the African food and agriculture sector. Their journey is a testament to the power of determination and the potential for positive change. 

After six months of intensive virtual training, insightful presentations, mock panel sessions and mentorship, the journey for the LAWFF Close-out event culminated at the 2024 Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS) in Kigali, Rwanda. The choice of venue was strategic, providing the women with a front-seat opportunity to engage with leading experts and renowned institutions in the food and agricultural landscape. This opportunity enabled the fellows to both witness and actively participate by presenting their ideas and showcasing their products to a diverse audience at the African Food Systems forum (AFS).  This enhanced their visibility and reaffirmed AFC’s confidence in their ability to lead and drive the transformation of Africa’s food systems. 

The five categories consisting of The Trailblazers, the Top Chefs in Africa, The Food Beverage Narrative Changers, The Ecosystem Enablers and The Disruptors were represented by outstanding women who strengthened connections, forged new collaborations, and cultivated a spirit of solidarity.  Adding a remarkable highlight to the event, Moyo Odunfa-Akinbo (aka Chef Moyo), an esteemed member of the LAWFF 2023 cohort, returned to the AFS stage as a distinguished thought leader. She collaborated with the Chefs’ Manifesto team at the culinary village, advancing the African food narrative, celebrating the contributions of young innovators in food and agriculture, and highlighting the rich diversity of African cuisine. It was a proud moment for AFC to see her emerge as a thought leader in the food space. Her achievements serve as a source of pride and inspiration for us all. 

 Although the LAWFF 2024 Cohort training has concluded, we are confident that these women transition into the LAWFF Alumni Network with a renewed sense of purpose. Their experience has fortified their commitment to leading the African food sector and advancing the global narrative of Africa as a powerhouse in the international food ecosystem. As they return to their respective countries and communities, they are poised to make a significant impact, their determination unwavering as they continue to nurture the valuable relationships they have built. 

 In summary, African Food Changemakers is inspired by the success of this cohort and remains steadfast in our commitment to cultivating a network of women who are unafraid to shatter glass ceilings, lead transformative narratives, and drive sustainable economic growth across the African food ecosystem.