Agroecology in Action: Biovision’s Agroecological Food Futures Prize Champions Sustainable Agri-SMEs

The Biovision Foundation on December 3rd, 2024, unveiled the groundbreaking Agroecological Food Futures Prize, an innovative initiative designed to spotlight and empower sustainable agri-SMEs in East Africa. The event, which took place in Kigali, marked a pivotal moment in the quest to transform food systems across the region. 

Combining ecological, economic, and social principles, agroecology addresses the urgent need for sustainable food systems amidst global challenges like climate change and economic inequality. It aligns with the Paris Climate Agreement and international biodiversity targets, offering pathways to sustainable development and Zero Hunger (SDG 2).

The Agroecological Food Futures Prize: Shining a Light on Solutions

In partnership with the IKEA Foundation and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the Prize aims to recognize Agroecological Enterprises (AEEs)—small and medium-sized businesses exemplifying the 13 principles of agroecology. These enterprises play a vital role in creating sustainable jobs, protecting nature, strengthening local value chains, and providing healthier, safer food options.

Hans Von Zinkernagel, Programme Manager, Policy and Advocacy at Biovision Foundation, discussed the objectives of the Agroecological Food Futures Prize, highlighting the importance of supporting small businesses focused on soil health, biodiversity conservation, and smallholder farmer livelihoods. Biovision aims to address the gap in financing for such businesses, emphasizing that these enterprises can be both environmentally and socially impactful as well as profitable in the long term. He called for changes in financing frameworks, advocating for equal consideration of social and environmental impact alongside financial returns.

He said, “We know that a lot of these businesses are small. We know that they fall through the cracks in the financing world. They often don’t manage to get access to finance. And we hope that by shining a light on them, we show that in the short term, their positive environmental and social impacts are extremely important and worth investing in. And in the longer term, these are also investable opportunities. These are profitable companies.”

He also pointed out that agroecological businesses play a critical role in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation. By aligning business models with agroecological principles, these enterprises can contribute to global environmental targets. The event aimed to catalyze further investment and support for such businesses, despite the modest prize amounts.

Zinkernagel expressed satisfaction with the event’s outcome, noting that it provided entrepreneurs an opportunity to refine their business plans. Biovision, with its 26 years of experience in East Africa, continues to build connections with civil society, policymakers, and the investment community to support agricultural enterprises across the region.

During his speech, Michel Evequos, from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (CDC), highlighted the critical need to accelerate food system transformation. He thanked the Biovision Foundation for providing a platform to discuss urgent global challenges such as climate change, conflicts, and their detrimental effects on food security and poverty, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

He criticized the global response as inadequate, citing COP29 as an example of collective failure. He emphasized that sustainable, resilient, and inclusive food systems are essential to tackle crises like malnutrition, climate change, and conflict.

“Agroecology is a decisive approach for a successful transition to a more resilient food system,” Evequos stated, noting Switzerland’s support for initiatives such as the African Union’s promotion of ecological organic agriculture.

He stressed the importance of collaborative action among all stakeholders, especially local actors and community-based organizations, who possess invaluable knowledge of local contexts. He also pointed to the growing demand for healthy food in African cities, urging support for agroecological enterprises with sustainable finance to foster innovation and resilience in the agricultural sector.

Ruth Nabaggala of the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), underscored the transformative potential of agroecological entrepreneurship. She acknowledged the pressing global crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity, stating, “These challenges are monumental, they represent an extraordinary opportunity to redefine the future, one that is sustainable and equitable and resilient.” She emphasized the importance of Sustainable Development Goal 2, “Zero Hunger,” as central to guiding efforts toward sustainable food systems.

She argued that agroecology offers a comprehensive solution to the interconnected issues of food security and environmental preservation, noting, “Agroecology provides a vision for sustainability, resilience, and equity in our food and agricultural systems.”

She pointed out that agroecological enterprises, driven by the 13 principles of agroecology, “are game changers,” not just profitable but also crucial for generating jobs and addressing climate change.

Despite their potential, these enterprises face significant challenges. Nabaggala called for increased support, saying, “Investing in agroecological enterprises creates not only meaningful impact in the environment and the society, but it also is a sound business strategy.” She concluded by urging, “Let us amplify its potential and pave the way for a future where individuals have access to healthy, sufficient and sustainably produced food.”

Dr. Never Zekeya, Founder and CEO of Plant Biodefenders Limited from Tanzania, delivered an inspiring message after winning first prize. Her company specializes in eco-friendly pest control solutions like Vuruga Biocide, which combats destructive pests while promoting pollinators, increasing yields, and fostering food security. Additionally, they produce herbal teas for health and wellness.

Expressing gratitude, she said, “Thanks to Biovision and other organizers for this event. Our startup, focused on agroecology, faces challenges in funding and visibility. While our innovations are impactful, reaching farmers remains difficult.”

She added, “Our products and innovations are good, but how do we reach people? How do our innovations reach people? This was the challenge! As part of this funding, we are going to train farmers so that they become aware of what we are producing. Again, to distribute these products were a challenge, so we are going to distribute them after distributing where we expect an impact on purchase.”

She emphasized the importance of using the platform to raise awareness, train farmers, and distribute their products to over 10,000 smallholder farmers and beyond.

Dr. Zekeya highlighted the potential for expanding their solutions to other African countries facing similar pest issues, reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. She called for partnerships and investments to overcome logistical barriers and reach wider markets.

Addressing youth, she urged resilience and engagement in agriculture, stating that “agriculture employs many youth and has high impact.”

She encouraged embracing innovations in horticulture, a field increasingly attracting women and youth. Reflecting on her journey. She concluded by urging governments to support youth-driven agricultural initiatives.

Gladwell Karangi, Head of Strategic Management at AgriTech Analytics from Kenya, who secured the second prize, emphasized the importance of technology in addressing agricultural challenges in Africa.

She highlighted the mission of her company, which uses AI, IoT, satellite imagery, and solar-powered devices to help smallholder farmers monitor weather, soil, and crops, improving yields and reducing risks. She said, “No human is limited,” encouraging youth and women to seize opportunities in agriculture despite economic and climate challenges. She celebrated the increasing representation of women in leadership, noting, “I am more than thrilled to see making a change,” advocating for equity.

She also discussed the financial hurdles in AgriTech, stating, “Money is never enough,” but expressed gratitude for the $10,000 prize and technical support from Biodivision. This funding will help improve their app, Alpha Map, and reach more farmers. Karangi stressed the need for local and global support to achieve zero hunger and reduce poverty through agroecology and sustainable agriculture.

Pauline Otila Kamwara, Founder and Director of Apiculture Ventures Limited in Kenya, who won the third price, highlighted her passion for sustainable beekeeping and its ecological and economic benefits.

Receiving the prize, she expressed gratitude as a woman thriving in a male-dominated field, stating, “The queen bee from Kenya came to Rwanda and took back home money.” She urged youth to own and champion their stories, emphasizing, “Believe in yourself. You own your story and go for it.” Pauline stressed the critical role of bees in agriculture and survival, advocating for technology that supports pollinators, concluding, “Let’s protect bees and save nature.”