As the highly anticipated 5th Annual Women in Food and Agricultural Leadership Training Forum and Gold in the Soil Awards draw near, Agrihouse Foundation is gearing up to honour and celebrate the remarkable achievements of women farmers in the agricultural sector.
Taking place on the 26th and 27th of July 2023 in the Eastern Region, this event will shine a spotlight on women who have excelled in various fields within the agricultural value chain.
The Gold in the Soil Awards comprises 15 categories that represent a diverse range of achievements. These categories highlight the exceptional accomplishments of women along the entire agricultural value chain, from farm-to-market excellence and innovation-driven solutions to community impact and sustainable practices. Each category holds its own significance, reflecting the multifaceted nature of women’s contributions to agriculture.
Among the esteemed categories is the, ULTIMATE GOLD IN THE SOIL AWARD: This prestigious accolade acknowledges the remarkable accomplishments of a woman who has made a significant impact along the entire agricultural value chain. From production and processing to branding and marketing, this outstanding individual has not only achieved excellence but has also positively influenced her community. Extra recognition will be given if she has successfully exported her products.
SUPER WOMAN FARMER AWARD: In this special category, the focus is on a physically challenged woman whose dedication, work, and passion for agriculture have greatly contributed to community development, food security, poverty alleviation, job creation, and economic growth in the agricultural sector. This award aims to recognize and celebrate the resilience and valuable contributions of these remarkable women.
THE PASSION FOR FARM AWARD: This award pays tribute to an individual woman who exhibits boundless enthusiasm and a deep passion for agribusiness. Her commitment to the growth of her community, job creation, mentoring young girls, and promoting agriculture on both small and large scales sets her apart as a true inspiration.
SHE OPERATES AWARD: Acknowledging excellence in tractor service management and maintenance, this award recognizes a remarkable female professional who not only earns income through this trade but also imparts her community with her skills. Her dedication to this field contributes significantly to the agricultural community’s growth and development.
SHE INNOVATES AWARD: This esteemed award celebrates a woman who demonstrates the power of innovation in her agribusiness. By identifying challenges within her community and the agricultural value chain, she has developed innovative solutions that add value to her business and positively impact the industry as a whole.
FEED TO FOODS AWARD: Recognizing determination, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to success in the poultry and livestock sectors, this award honours a woman who has consistently exhibited excellence in these areas. Her contributions to the agricultural value chain are instrumental in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable practices.
STAR WOMAN AGRIPRENEUR AWARD: This special recognition is bestowed upon an outstanding young woman excelling in any field of agriculture. Her efficiency in service delivery, income performance, and role modelling abilities make her a shining example and an inspiration for other young girls within her community.
DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH AWARD: This award recognizes a generational role model who quietly and selflessly contributes to her family, community, and the agricultural sector as a whole. Her mentorship and strides towards progress make her an unsung heroine whose impact should be celebrated and acknowledged.
ROYAL AGRO AWARD: Highlighting the pivotal role of traditional leaders, particularly Queen Mothers, in supporting women in agriculture, this award acknowledges the personal commitment of a traditional leader in developing and empowering women in her community. Through access to land, training, social impact programs, and advocacy, she creates an enabling environment for women in agriculture to thrive.
CLIMATE SMART WOMEN PROJECT AWARD: This accolade honours a group of women or a woman-led organization that has implemented an outstanding climate-smart project in agriculture. By adopting sustainable practices, these changemakers contribute to the transformation and development of their communities while increasing agricultural productivity.
CHANGE CHAMPION AWARD: This category acknowledges the efforts of a professional corporate woman who is driving positive change within the agribusiness sector. Through her ongoing dedication, passion, and contributions, she not only impacts corporate internal change but also creates a significant national impact.
OUTSTANDING WOMAN IN EXTENSION SERVICES AWARD: Recognizing women in the public or private sector, this award commends those who tirelessly contribute to agricultural development through training, capacity building, and advocacy. Their efforts empower farmers with best practices, leading to socio-economic development and empowerment at both the societal and national levels.
PRINCESS CARLA AWARD: This award pays tribute to a dedicated woman whose work and role positively affect communities by touching lives, mentoring, advising, counseling, and enhancing networks for other women of all ages. Her influence and commitment make her a true asset to her community.
LADY OF THE EXPORT REGION AWARD: This category aims to recognize and reward the most successful and innovative woman exporter within the region. Factors such as business size and export sales are taken into account to identify the exceptional woman who has excelled in expanding her business beyond borders.
DEVELOPMENT PARTNER AWARD—CANADIAN HIGH COMMISSION: This special award acknowledges the significant contributions of the Canadian High Commission as an international organization committed to the development of women in agriculture. Their efforts in encouraging best practices and adding value to the community are recognized and celebrated.
Additionally, it is important to note that women farmers who are nominated and selected for the 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards will have the incredible opportunity to compete for recognition in the 15 coveted Gold in the Soil categories. These categories represent diverse aspects of the agricultural value chain and acknowledge the exceptional accomplishments of women across various fields within the sector.
This is aimed at giving these remarkable women the chance to showcase their expertise, innovation, and dedication to agriculture. As they vie for the prestigious Gold in the Soil Awards. The level of excellence and competition is expected to be unparalleled, underscoring the immense talent and potential within the women farming community.
The 5th WOFAGRIC and Gold in the Soil Awards provide a platform for these remarkable women to share their experiences and success stories. The awards not only recognize their contributions but also inspire others, foster knowledge sharing, and encourage greater participation of women in agriculture. As the ceremony approaches, the agricultural community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the winners in each category, celebrating their accomplishments and inspiring a new generation of women farmers to reach greater heights in the field of agriculture.
