The highly anticipated Youth Town Hall event brought together a panel of judges who carefully evaluated submissions. Ultimately, Fatima El Khou, Founder and CEO of Jafife (Morocco), and Dr. Iddi Mohammed Faried, Co-founder and CEO of Kodu Technology (Ghana), emerged victorious with their impactful solutions.
Harnessing Solar Power for Sustainable Food
Fatima El Khou’s Jafife is revolutionizing Morocco’s agri-food industry with their innovative digitalized solar dryers. This technology empowers local producers by enabling the creation of long-lasting dried food products, while preserving both nutritional value and overall quality. But Jafife’s impact goes beyond food – their dryers utilize renewable energy, making their food products and natural dyes eco-friendly across various industries.
Turning Waste into Wellness:
Dr. Iddi Mohammed Faried’s Kodu Technology is pioneering a scientific solution in Ghana, transforming banana and plantain fibers into eco-friendly sanitary pads. This innovation tackles critical health and hygiene challenges faced by women, particularly in rural communities. Not only do Kodu Technology’s pads offer a sustainable and affordable alternative, but they also address “period poverty” and contribute to the circular economy through waste reduction.
Praise for Pioneering Change:
“These young agripreneurs exemplify how Africa is leading the way in transforming food systems,” said Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa). “Their dedication, creativity, and commitment to sustainable agribusinesses are crucial elements in achieving lasting positive change across the continent. Seeing such transformative ideas come to life is truly inspiring.”
Beyond the Grand Prizes:
The GoGettaz Awards extended their recognition beyond the grand prizes. Four additional young entrepreneurs received $15,000 Impact Awards, acknowledging their impactful contributions in areas like rural livelihoods, technology, job creation, improved natural resource use, climate resilience, and women’s empowerment.
