How AWOLA is fast-tracking women’s leadership in agroecology
By Monica Nyaga, Gender & Youth Program Officer, PELUM Kenya
Across Africa, women are the backbone of agri-food systems, yet their leadership, innovation and enterprises often remain unseen. The Africa Women Leaders in Agroecology (AWOLA) continental initiative is changing this by empowering women to lead agroecological transformation.
The recent onboarding of AWOLA Cohort 2026 of 60 women leaders in agri-food systems brings together emerging leaders from Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Malawi, marking another milestone in building a strong continental movement. Through mentorship, peer learning and strategic networking, women from government, research, media, agroecological entrepreneurship, development organisations and grassroots communities are strengthening their leadership and influence across the sector.
The United Nations International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026 recognises the vital, yet often overlooked, contributions of women in agrifood systems. AWOLA amplifies the voices of rural women farmers and pastoralist women. These women are celebrated as custodians of land, seeds and indigenous knowledge, and recognised as frontline leaders driving resilient food systems. By connecting them with policymakers, researchers, markets and entrepreneurs, AWOLA ensures that their knowledge shapes policy and practice. Through the AWOLA Business Incubation Fund, women-led agroecological enterprises are scaling through business incubation, branding, certification and market access. Simultaneously, AWOLA is documenting women’s innovations and stories of change, increasing their visibility and influence. More than a programme, AWOLA is building a vibrant movement where women mentor one another, grow businesses, inspire future leaders and accelerate Africa’s transition to sustainable and inclusive food systems.
Would you like to be part of AWOLA? Join the upcoming Women in Agroecology Expo in September 2026.
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