The recent close-out event for the Leading African Women in Food Fellowship (LAWFF) from the African Food Changemakers marked a vibrant celebration of achievements, growth, and new beginnings. Funded by the Skoll Foundation and founded by Ndidi Nwuneli, the LAWFF Program is a groundbreaking initiative that empowers women leaders in the African food and agriculture sector by amplifying their voices and increasing their visibility, effectively bridging the gender gap in agricultural discourse and leadership. This event, held in Rwanda, celebrated the graduation of 30 vibrant women fellows from a pool of 639 nominees across five categories: Top Chef, Trailblazer, Ecosystem Enablers, Food and Beverage Narrative Changers, and Disruptors. These exceptional women will now transition into the LAWFF Alumni Network, continuing to build on the connections and knowledge gained during their fellowship. 

This event signaled the culmination of a transformative six-month journey for these dynamic fellows, filled with intensive virtual training, insightful presentations, mock panel sessions, and impactful mentorship. It was a time for the fellows to reflect on their journeys, celebrate their progress, and set new goals for the future.

The opening day was marked by inspiring speeches and shared experiences. Adanna Imafidor, Program Lead for LAWFF, highlighted the critical role of sisterhood; an intimate and supportive form of community, in advancing women's leadership and economic empowerment. Temi Adegoroye, Executive Chair of African Food Changemakers, also delivered a compelling keynote address on "The Harvest of Equality: Empowering Women in Agricultural Supply Chains and Food Systems." He underscored the significant contributions of women in food production, processing, and marketing, noting that if women had equal access to productive resources as men, agricultural yields could increase by 20-30%, raising total output by 2-4%.

Throughout the week, the fellows engaged in dynamic in-person training sessions, discussions, and networking opportunities. The event provided a platform for fellows to share their innovative ideas, showcase their products, and forge meaningful connections with one another. These interactions fostered a spirit of solidarity and mutual support, leading to the formation of new partnerships and collaborations.

The close-out event coincided with the 2024 Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS) in Rwanda, offering the fellows a unique opportunity to engage with leading figures and institutions in the food and agriculture sector. The forum, featuring 302 speakers, 882 youth participants, seven former heads of state, 37 ministers, and 149 members of the press, provided an unparalleled platform for the fellows to amplify their voices and showcase their expertise. Several fellows seized the chance to pitch their innovative ideas and exhibit their products at the AFC Exhibition, drawing attention and support from industry leaders and peers alike.

Beyond being a celebration, the close-out was a powerful demonstration of the fellows' potential to lead and drive change in Africa’s food and agriculture landscape. It marked a pivotal moment for strengthening bonds, forging new alliances, and leveraging collective knowledge and experiences. These connections are anticipated to foster sustainable growth and development within the sector, underscoring the transformative impact of the LAWFF program.

The LAWFF program has once again demonstrated its crucial role in empowering women to lead, innovate, and transform Africa's food and agriculture sector. The event underscored the program's impact in shaping a new generation of women leaders dedicated to advancing Africa's food systems. As the LAWFF fellows move forward, they carry with them the tools, confidence, and support needed to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.