Former President Dr Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete in September 2025 presented the prestigious 2025 Africa Food Prize to two outstanding African women scientists in recognition of their groundbreaking contributions to food security and agricultural innovation across the continent. 

The US$100,000 prize was jointly awarded to Professor Mary Abukutsa-Onyango of Kenya and Mercy Diebiru-Ojo of Nigeria during a ceremony in Dakar, Senegal, held alongside the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF), which ran from 1 to 5 September 2025. 

Dr Kikwete, who chairs the Africa Food Prize Committee, congratulated the winners for their exceptional research that is helping improve agricultural productivity and the livelihoods of smallholder farmers across Africa. 

“This award highlights the vital role African scientists play in addressing the continent’s agricultural challenges. While this year’s prize recognises two remarkable individuals, it also celebrates the tireless efforts of many people and institutions working to build resilient and sustainable food systems for Africa” Dr Kikwete said. 

Professor Abukutsa-Onyango has devoted her career to promoting indigenous African vegetables, including amaranth, kale, spider plant, African nightshade and cassava leaves, to improve nutrition and food security. 

Meanwhile, Diebiru-Ojo has pioneered an innovative semi-autotrophic hydroponic technology for cassava seed multiplication, significantly increasing the availability of high-quality planting materials and boosting cassava production. 

Established in 2005 under the umbrella of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), the Africa Food Prize honours individuals and organisations making exceptional contributions to transforming Africa’s food systems.

This year’s competition attracted 601 nominations from across Africa and beyond.