By Jones Gadama
Heifer International’s AYuTe Africa Challenge Malawi has awarded young agricultural technology innovators with cash prizes ranging from K2 million to K13 million.
The initiative aims to promote climate-smart technologies in agriculture by engaging youths to develop and implement innovative solutions.
Tamani Nkhono-Mvula, Heifer International Board Chairman, emphasized the organization’s commitment to linking young innovators with funding opportunities.
“Linking young innovators with funding opportunities is crucial in promoting agricultural production and food security,” he said.
Alinafe Kaliwo, one of the winners, received K13 million for inventing Chameleon Tools, a system that detects soil moisture levels. Kaliwo urged fellow youths to innovate, highlighting their potential to transform Malawi’s agricultural landscape.
Director of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Julius Chulu, noted that most smallholder farmers still rely on local equipment, hindering agricultural development and sustainability.
The AYuTe Africa Challenge Malawi seeks to address such challenges by exposing young agri-preneurs beyond national borders and making Africa food sufficient.
The winners were selected from a pool of applicants across Malawi, with the challenge covering various regions, including the Southern, Central, and Northern regions.
The AYuTe Africa Challenge is part of Heifer International’s efforts to support young agritech innovators across Africa, with similar initiatives in countries like Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Senegal.
This year’s winners will join a growing community of innovators transforming Africa’s agricultural sector.
Previous winners have received support through programs like the MIT Solve Innovators Program, which provides technical capabilities to grow their businesses and amplify their impact.
