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2024 GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Winners Announced: Africa’s Top Young Agrifood Innovators Receive US$166,000 in Prize Money

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Visionary agripreneurs from 11 African countries recognised for launching innovative businesses that drive agricultural transformation across the continent

The future of Africa’s food systems lies in the hands of its young entrepreneurs

KIGALI, Rwanda, September 10, 2024/APO Group/ — 

Celebrating Africa’s top young agrifood entrepreneurs at the 2024 Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) in Kigali, Rwanda; Visionary agripreneurs from 11 African countries recognised for launching innovative businesses that drive agricultural transformation across the continent. 

In a celebration of African agrifood innovation, two young entrepreneurs were awarded the prestigious GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition Grand Prizes at the Africa Food Systems Forum 2024 last Friday in Kigali. During the highly anticipated Youth Town Hall event, GoGettaz judges selected Fatima El Khou, Founder, CEO, and Head of Research & Innovation from Jafife (Morocco), and Dr. Iddi Mohammed Faried, Co-founder and CEO of Kodu Technology (Ghana) to each receive $50,000 for their groundbreaking solutions in agriculture.

Fatima El Khou’s company, Jafife (https://Jafife.ma/), is revolutionizing the agri-food supply chain in Morocco with digitalized solar-powered technology that transforms crops and seafood into long-lasting dried food products maintaining nutritional value and quality. Utilizing renewable energy, Jafife’s food products and natural dyes provide eco-conscious solutions across industries, while empowering local producers.

Dr. Iddi Mohammed Faried’s company Kodu Technology (https://KoduTechnology.com/),  has introduced a scientific innovation in Ghana that transforms banana and plantain fibers into eco-friendly sanitary pads for women, addressing health and hygiene challenges. Kodu Technology’s innovation not only creates a sustainable and affordable alternative to traditional menstrual products with a mission to eradicate “period poverty” in rural communities but also supports local agriculture and contributes to the circular economy by repurposing agricultural waste.

“These young agripreneurs have shown that Africa’s solutions to food systems transformation are already being implemented,” said Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA. “Their drive, creativity, and commitment to building sustainable agribusinesses are exactly what we need to achieve lasting change across the continent. It’s inspiring to see such transformative ideas come to life.”

  • In addition to the grand prizes, four young entrepreneurs were each awarded a $15,000 Impact Award, recognizing their transformative contributions across critical areas including rural livelihoods, technology, job creation, improving rural livelihoods, natural resource use, climate resilience, nutrition, youth and women’s empowerment. The 2024 GoGettaz Impact Award winners are:
  • Charles Oyamo – Rethread Africa (https://Rethread.Africa/), Kenya, Technology Impact Prize.  Rethread Africa converts agricultural waste from smallholder farmers into sustainable bioplastics, providing eco-friendly materials for various industries. Rethread’s technology reduces the reliance on synthetic materials and increases farmers’ income without additional labour, promoting sustainable agriculture.
  • Tisya Mukuna, La BOITE (www.La-Kinoise.com), DR Congo – Job Creation and Improving Rural Livelihoods Impact Prize.  La BOITE produces La Kinoise coffee, cultivated and transformed entirely in Kinshasa, managing the entire value chain from plantation to processing. By reviving abandoned coffee plantations and supporting local cooperatives, La Boite improves agricultural practices and create economic opportunities through its “One Cart, One Job” program.
  • Salimata Toh, AGRIBANANA (https://AGRIBANANA.net/), Côte d’Ivoire – Resource Use and Climate Impact Prize. AGRIBANANA transforms banana plant waste into eco-friendly products like natural fibres, paper pulp, and biodegradable packaging. Agribanana’s patented process adds value to agricultural waste, promoting sustainable consumption and reducing environmental impact.
  • Riantsoa Mialinarindra, Sakafo Madagascar (www.Sakafo-Madagascar.com) – Job Creation, Nutrition and Gender Impact Prize. Sakafo Madagascar processes fruits and vegetables grown by small-scale farmers into traceable, nutritious food products. Safako’s holistic ecosystem supports sustainable farming practices, reduces post-harvest loss, and promotes a circular economy with composting and clean energy initiatives in Madagascar.

Additionally, each of the remaining 6 finalists received a GoGettaz “Young Catalyst Award” of $1,000 each, recognizing their excellence and catalytic contributions to grow, transform, and positively impact Africa’s agrifood systems:

  • Deborah Nzarubara – Grecom (www.Grecom-RDC.com), DR Congo. Grecom specializes in the production, sale, and transformation of beekeeping products using its NYUKI TECH platform. Grecom’s platform enables apiculturists to track and manage its hives remotely, ensuring optimal production and bee health, while connecting small producers to market information and customers.
  • Arristine Mendes – SHADDAÏ Aquaculture (https://apo-opa.co/47mUmzf), Senegal. SHADDAÏ Aquaculture produces fish feed without fish meal, using alternative protein sources and lysis technology for digestibility. This innovation protects the environment by reducing overfishing while providing high-quality feed to support sustainable aquaculture.
  • Mogale Maleka – Agang Bokamoso Farms (AB Farms) (https://ABFarms.co.za/), South Africa.  AB Farms’ patented vertical hydroponic system operates efficiently during water and power shortages, using 90% less water and 10 times less land than traditional farming. AB Farms’ vertical farming system enables farmers to produce nutritious crops that are virtually pesticide free, in urban areas, on degraded land, or in areas with poor soil conditions.
  • Bruk Getahun – ChipChip (https://ChipChip.social/), Ethiopia. ChipChip.Social uses an innovative “group buying” model to provide affordable, quality food to urban families while empowering farmers. ChipChip’s platform aggregates demand, reducing logistics costs and offering consumers wholesale prices, which are at least 20% lower than market rates.
  • Mohamed Amine Bensalem – Hayat Technology, Tunisia. Hayat Technology’s GrowIt system uses AI-driven sensors and real-time data analysis to optimize water usage and enhance crop management. This advanced irrigation technology is accessible and affordable for farmers, improving productivity and sustainability.
  • Mostafa Hassanen – Plug’n’Grow (www.PlugNGrow.me), Egypt. Plug’n’Grow specializes in hydroponic and aquaculture solutions, enabling growers to produce premium quality crops with minimal resources. Plug’n’Grow’s systems reduce capital and operational costs by 70% compared to traditional methods, optimizing resource efficiency and crop yields.

The esteemed judges panel for 2024 consisted of GoGettaz partners and experts from across the African continent. The judges were:

  • Ada Osakwe (Founder & CEO, Agrolay Ventures, AGRA Board Member, GoGettaz Lead Judge) Nigeria
  • Fina Kayisanabo (Private Sector Development Team Lead, USAID) Rwanda
  • Jane Baldwin (Head of Agrifood Systems, Pan African Programs, Mastercard Foundation) Canada
  • Luis Alfredo Pérez (Senior Vice President Africa, Yara International) Guatemala
  • Nana Amoah (Director of Gender, Youth, and Inclusiveness for AGRA) Ghana
  • Tchegoun Koba (Global Technical Advisor for Youth Employment & Entrepreneurship, SNV) Senegal

The 2024 GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize finale began this year with remarks from GoGettaz winners from previous years and inspiring words from Ms Solange Tetero, Director General of Youth Empowerment in the Ministry of Youth and Arts, Government of Rwanda. Entertainment featured young dancers from the Sherrie Silver Foundation in Rwanda.

This year, GoGettaz expanded its reach, focusing on underrepresented Francophone regions and encouraging innovations addressing climate challenges and solutions. The campaign’s success was evident with increased participation and diversity among finalists who this year hailed from 11 African countries.  To find out more, please find year’s Top-12 Deal Book: https://apo-opa.co/3XmxjA8

Amath Pathe Sene, Managing Director of the Africa Food Systems Forum, highlighted the importance of youth-driven solutions. “The future of Africa’s food systems lies in the hands of its young entrepreneurs. Their ideas are not just innovative – they are necessary.”

Strive Masiyiwa, Founder and Chairman of Econet Group and GoGettaz Africa co-founder, addressed the standing-room-only audience at the Youth Dome event just before the Top-12 finalists went on stage for their 3-minute pitches and five-minute grilling by the GoGettaz expert judging panel. Excerpted remarks:

“It’s remarkable to see the extraordinary number of African entrepreneurs who are pioneering solutions across so many African countries,” he noted.  “To all participants, and I’m not just talking to those who made the finalists, I’ve always said (GoGettaz) is one award in which the winner is anyone who participates, because at the end of the day, we can give you an award, but it’s not an end in itself.”

“The end is to build African enterprises that create jobs, that can scale, that can solve real problems as they build the prosperity of nations,” he remarked. “If you are a participant, you are a winner, not just the finalists, because you are showing us you have the confidence, you have the ability, and you have put together a business. Pat yourself on the back and give a high-five to your team for participating… because entrepreneurs try, try, and try again until they succeed.”

To this year’s finalists, I am so proud of you. I have gone through the lists and been following the reports. To the winners: Well done. Africa thanks you. I thank you,” he concluded.

Svein Tore Holsether, President and CEO of Yara International and co-founder of GoGettaz, emphasized the significance of youth-led innovation in addressing food security challenges. “These young entrepreneurs are transforming food systems with bold, inventive solutions. Their impact will resonate far beyond Africa.”

This year marked a significant increase in female participation, an important milestone in an industry often dominated by men. Morocco, DRC, and Côte d’Ivoire saw a surge in representation, further testament to the inclusivity and broad regional impact of the 2024 GoGettaz annual campaign and competition.

As the 2024 GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition concludes, GoGettaz and its partners commended the resilience, creativity, and leadership of Africa’s young  agripreneurs. With a growing network of innovators, the focus now shifts to fostering mentorship and policy-making that supports youth and women in agriculture.

To learn more about this year’s finalists and to stay informed about upcoming opportunities, visit https://GoGettaz.Africa and follow our journey toward transforming African agriculture through innovation and entrepreneurship.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of 2024 GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition.

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2.5 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA) in Gas Output Feasible for Namibia, Says the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR)

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April 27, 2025

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NAMCOR projects over 2.5 million tons in annual gas production as Namibia accelerates its gas monetization strategy, infrastructure development and regional energy leadership

WINDHOEK, Namibia, April 26, 2025/APO Group/ –The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR) has revealed that the country could produce more than 2.5 million tons of natural gas per year, based on early-stage assessments of recent discoveries made since 2022.

Speaking during a panel discussion on gas monetization strategies at the Namibia International Energy Conference on April 24, Mtundeni Ndafyaalako, Executive of Upstream Development & Production at national oil company NAMCOR, outlined a dual-pronged approach adopted by the corporation.

The first pillar focuses on leveraging legislative frameworks to enable coordinated infrastructure development, fostering collaboration among operators. The second emphasizes expanding exploration activities to unlock further resources.

“We have launched a gas monetization strategy project to support both government and industry on how best to commercialize gas. From our appraisals, we now have a clearer picture of production potential and various applications,” said Ndafyaalako, noting that the strategy is designed to attract new players and investment by clarifying monetization pathways.

Manfriedt Muundjua, Deputy General Manager at BW Kudu, reinforced the importance of integrating four pillars of local content – training, skills transfer, local procurement and local ownership – into the broader gas development framework.

We have launched a gas monetization strategy project to support both government and industry on how best to commercialize gas

Muundjua shared that BW Kudu is placing Namibian interns in every technical role currently held by international staff, supporting long-term local capacity building. He also emphasized the urgent need for downstream investment and infrastructure development.

“We already have a downstream investment partner lined up to join us once production at Kudu begins,” he said.He added that drilling of additional wells is scheduled to begin in October, supporting NAMCOR’s emphasis on continued exploration to identify new reserves.

Paul Eardley-Taylor, Head of Oil & Gas Coverage for Southern Africa at Standard Bank, highlighted the need for a “shadow infrastructure” – potentially led by public-private partnerships – in southern Namibia to address energy shortages through gas utilization. He suggested that oil revenues should be strategically directed toward financing gas infrastructure and fostering local energy markets.

Eardley-Taylor also pointed to the broader regional opportunity, suggesting that Namibia could assume a role once held by South Africa as the region’s primary energy supplier, particularly as critical mineral projects are willing to pay a premium for stable power supply.

Meanwhile, Ian Thom, Research Director for Upstream at Wood Mackenzie, expressed confidence that Namibia could implement a comprehensive Gas Master Plan within the next nine months. With only 59% of the population currently connected to the electricity grid, Thom underscored the potential of gas to dramatically increase energy access across residential, commercial and industrial sectors.

“Namibia could generate more value by exporting electricity rather than raw gas, given the limited infrastructure for gas exports and the high costs associated with building it,” Thom said.

Looking ahead, the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – set to take place from September 29 to October 3, 2025, in Cape Town – will spotlight Namibia’s gas developments and broader African opportunities The event will feature panel discussions, project showcases, deal signings and high-level networking sessions that connect African energy projects with global investors.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber

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Strategic Mergers and Acquisitions (M&As) Fuel Investment, Expansion in Namibia’s Upstream Sector

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At the Namibia International Energy Conference, industry leaders emphasized M&As as key drivers of upstream growth and investment in Namibia’s oil and gas sector

WINDHOEK, Namibia, April 26, 2025/APO Group/ –Merger and acquisition (M&A) activity continues to emerge as a critical engine for growth in Namibia’s upstream oil and gas sector, as emphasized during a high-level panel discussion at the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) on Thursday. Industry leaders outlined how strategic M&A deals are not only reshaping the country’s energy landscape, but also playing a key role in unlocking capital and accelerating exploration.

Gil Holzman, CEO of Eco Atlantic Oil & Gas, highlighted how acquisitions have underpinned his company’s expansion in Namibia since its entry into the market in 2009, stating: “Most of our best blocks are the result of M&As. Our most recent acquisition was in 2021 when we bought Azinam, which gave us promising blocks in the Orange Basin.”

According to Holzman, these acquisitions have fortified Eco Atlantic’s asset portfolio while positioning Namibia as an increasingly attractive frontier for global exploration. He pointed to M&A transactions involving supermajors such as ExxonMobil, QatarEnergy, Chevron and TotalEnergies as instrumental in bringing in not just capital, but also the technical capabilities needed to advance exploration in Namibia’s offshore and onshore basins.

Discussing the company’s operational strategy, Holzman emphasized a phased approach anchored in collaboration: “We aim to secure promising prospects, de-risk them internally and then attract partners with the technical know-how and capital required to unlock new frontiers.”

We aim to secure promising prospects, de-risk them internally and then attract partners with the technical know-how and capital required to unlock new frontiers

Echoing this sentiment, Adam Rubin, General Counsel at ReconAfrica, emphasized that M&As remain a strategic avenue to catalyze value creation, drive innovation and meet the substantial capital demands of upstream development. “We have not yet produced onshore, but the oil is there. Be patient – we will find it and produce,” he said, reaffirming the company’s commitment to moving from exploration toward full-scale production in the Kavango Basin.

Robert Bose, CEO of Sintana Energy, added that M&A activity has played a central role in enabling Sintana to broaden its asset base and build relationships with complementary partners. “M&As have helped us connect with the right partners and diversify our portfolio,” he said. “Cost-effective investment remains a key motivator, and we are focused on disciplined growth.”

From a financial perspective, Liz Williamson, Head of Energy at Rand Merchant Bank, outlined the opportunities that arise when IOCs divest from mature or late-life assets. She noted that such moves often create openings for mid-cap firms with fresh capital and a focused approach to step in. “This trend is beneficial for African governments, as middle-tier companies are often better suited to fully commit to and invest in these projects,” she explained.

Williamson also underscored the importance of establishing clear, investor-friendly deal frameworks and local content policies that build investor confidence. “Not many African countries are currently securing significant foreign direct investment, and Namibia must maintain its appeal by offering clarity on local content laws,” she said.

As Namibia emerges as a key exploration hotspot on the continent, discussions around capital flows, deal-making and upstream expansion are set to continue at African Energy Week 2025: Invest in African Energies, taking place from September 29-October 3, 2025 in Cape Town. The event will unite industry leaders, investors and government representatives to advance dialogue, showcase project opportunities and drive strategic partnerships across Africa’s energy landscape. Namibia’s rising profile and recent exploration success will be a focal point, drawing increased attention from global stakeholders seeking entry into one of the continent’s most dynamic markets.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber

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Capricornus 1-X Adds to String of Successes in Namibia’s Offshore Oil Boom

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April 27, 2025

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The African Energy Chamber welcomes the Capricornus 1-X light oil discovery as a game-changing development for Namibia, solidifying the Orange Basin’s status as a world-class petroleum province and opening the door to transformative economic and energy opportunities

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 25, 2025/APO Group/ –The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) strongly endorses the successful light oil discovery at the Capricornus 1-X exploration well in Namibia’s offshore Block 2914A – announced on April 24 – calling it a pivotal moment in the country’s energy evolution. The discovery solidifies the Orange Basin’s status as a major petroleum province and strengthens Namibia’s potential as a leading energy producer.

Led by operator Rhino Resources alongside partners Azule Energy, national oil company NAMCOR and Korres Investments, the Capricornus 1-X well encountered 38 meters of high-quality net pay with strong petrophysical characteristics, no water contact and flowed in excess of 11,000 barrels of oil per day during testing. These world-class results confirm the presence of a commercially viable light oil system and further elevate Namibia’s status as a frontier destination of choice for upstream exploration.

The Capricornus 1-X discovery is a pivotal moment for Namibia, reinforcing the Orange Basin’s status as a leading global exploration hub

The AEC commends the PEL85 joint venture partners on delivering one of the most significant discoveries in Namibia to date, reinforcing the industry’s confidence in the Orange Basin and supporting the Chamber’s long-standing position that Namibia’s geology holds exceptional promise. With a 37° API light oil quality, low CO₂ content and no hydrogen sulphide, the Capricornus 1-X find mirrors key features of the highly anticipated Venus and Graff discoveries nearby.

The latest discovery is set to catalyze further investment in Namibia’s energy ecosystem, from seismic activity and appraisal drilling to infrastructure development and regional service capacity building. The AEC believes the positive results will trigger accelerated project timelines, fast-track appraisal and development plans and draw significant attention from global energy companies, financiers and technology providers.

The Capricornus 1-X success demonstrates the powerful results that can be achieved when African institutions like NAMCOR partner with ambitious operators and experienced international players. It also underscores the strength of Namibia’s investment environment – marked by a stable regulatory framework, competitive licensing terms and strong governance – factors the AEC has long championed as critical to unlocking Africa’s energy potential. This milestone affirms the value of long-term vision, exploration persistence and a shared commitment to generating broad-based prosperity from natural resources.

“The Capricornus 1-X discovery is a pivotal moment for Namibia, reinforcing the Orange Basin’s status as a leading global exploration hub. This breakthrough boosts investor confidence and paves the way for rapid development. We commend the joint venture partners for their leadership and execution, and are confident that the relevant parties will work quickly to maximize the value of these resources. Namibia is poised to lead Africa’s energy future, with this discovery marking just the beginning,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

Looking ahead, the Chamber encourages all stakeholders – industry, investors, policymakers and the global community – to seize the moment. Namibia’s upstream is rising, and Capricornus 1-X is proof that bold exploration strategies in Africa continue to yield tangible results. This is the time to double down on investment, support new entrants and ensure that African oil and gas continues to play a critical role in meeting global demand, funding local development and securing the continent’s energy future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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