Malawian women agripreneurs have been urged to apply for the 2026 Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards (WAYA), which offer a prize pool of $300,000, about K600 million in grant funding.
Launched in Maputo, Mozambique, during International Women’s Day, AGRA President Alice Ruhweza said women are no longer just participants in agriculture, but key drivers of innovation and growth.
She said this year’s theme, “Give Agency to Gain Growth,” calls for greater investment in women’s leadership and opportunities.
Malawi’s Lusungu Mwale, founder of Lweya Honey and 2025 Southern Africa “Rising Star,” stands as proof of that potential.
Based in Mzuzu, Mwale has trained over 100 women and youth in beekeeping, promoting both environmental conservation and economic empowerment.
“This award is more than money,it shows that a young woman from Mzuzu can be recognised on a continental stage,” she said.
However, she noted challenges such as high costs and bureaucracy, urging entrepreneurs to remain resilient and strategic.
Applications are open to women-led agribusinesses across Africa through the VALUE4HER platform and AGRA channels.
The deadline is May 8, 2026, with winners to be announced in Kigali this September.
By Mirriam Kaliza
