Across Africa, young women are driving transformation in agriculture. They are leading farms, innovating within value chains, creating agribusinesses, and building solutions that strengthen food security in their communities. Yet, despite their remarkable contribution, their voices often remain underrepresented in the spaces where agricultural and food systems policies are shaped.
To bridge this gap, the Pan-African Farmers’ Organization (PAFO), with support from AGRA, is proud to launch the Young Women Leaders Fellowship in Agri-Food Systems—a program dedicated to empowering young women aged 18 to 35 through skills development, advocacy training, mentorship, and policy engagement.
Why This Fellowship Matters
Africa’s agricultural future depends on inclusive leadership. Young women represent a powerful yet under-recognized force in the sector. By equipping them with the tools to influence policy, communicate effectively, and lead with confidence, this Fellowship aims to elevate their role in decision-making spaces at national, regional, and continental levels.
The program aligns with PAFO’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the capacity of farmers’ organizations and ensuring that the voices of women, youth, and grassroots actors are heard.
What the Fellowship Offers
Participants will benefit from a comprehensive, high-impact experience that includes:
1. A 5-day immersive leadership & advocacy training in Kigali
Fellows will learn how agricultural policies are shaped and how to effectively influence those processes.
2. Mentorship from experts and leaders
Participants will be connected with experienced policymakers, agribusiness actors, and advocates who will support their growth.
3. Access to continental policy platforms
Fellows will have opportunities to engage in real policy dialogues and share their perspectives with stakeholders across Africa.
4. Networking and collaboration
Young women from Eastern and Southern Africa will connect, share experiences, and strengthen their collective voice in the agricultural space.
5. Certification and visibility
Outstanding fellows will receive recognition and exposure at national, regional, and continental levels.
Who Can Apply?
The Fellowship is open to young women who:
- Are between 18 and 35 years old
- Are active in agriculture, agribusiness, cooperatives, or agri-food value chains
- Hold (or demonstrate) leadership roles
- Are members or affiliates of Farmers’ Organizations
- Reside in Eastern or Southern Africa
- Can attend the physical training and online engagements
- Are passionate about advocacy, policy, and advancing African food systems
How to Apply
Applications are open from 17 to 21 November 2025 (5:00 PM CET).
Interested candidates must submit:
- Updated CV
- Letter of motivation
- Two references (including one from a Farmers’ Organization)
- Proof of leadership position
- Copy of ID or Passport
Applications should be sent to:
📩 admin@pafo-africa.org
CC: finance@pafo-africa.org | program@pafo-africa.org | N.pascal@pafo-africa.org
A Call to Africa’s Emerging Women Leaders
This Fellowship is more than a training program—it is an investment in Africa’s future. It is an opportunity for young women who are ready to lead, innovate, and influence the policies that shape food systems across the continent.
If you—or someone you know—are passionate about driving agricultural transformation, this is your moment.
Step forward. Lead boldly. Shape the future of Africa’s agri-food systems