Call for entries: Apply by 8 February!
The Kofi Annan Prize for Innovation in Africa is back for its second edition, inviting visionaries and entrepreneurs from across the continent to present their innovative solutions. With the application deadline set for 8 February 2024 at 23:59 (CEST), now is the time to contribute to the transformation of African food systems.
Fund
With Africa projected to have the world's largest labour force by 2035 and more than half of the world's population growth by 2050, the continent is at the forefront of the digital economy. Recognising the challenges and opportunities of this growth, Austria acknowledges Africa's potential for promising innovations. The 2nd edition of the Kofi Annan Prize is proof of Austria's commitment to supporting Africa's rise through digital and innovative solutions.
Sign up now and be part of the transformative journey towards a more resilient and secure future for African food systems!
Building on Success
Following a triumphant inaugural edition, the Kofi Annan Prize for Innovation in Africa is committed to identifying and supporting innovative solutions that strengthen food security and improve the resilience of food systems across the continent. The focus is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 2, Zero Hunger, emphasising the importance of achieving food security and improving nutrition.
What we're looking for
The Kofi Annan Prize 2023 is looking for technology-based solutions that address pressing challenges related to food security in African countries. Social entrepreneurs with digital or technological solutions are encouraged to apply, focusing on the following priority themes:
- Including marginalised groups in food security
- Improved nutrition for women
- Circular solutions and reducing post-harvest losses
About KAIA
In collaboration with the Kofi Annan Foundation, the Austrian Federal Chancellery invites entrepreneurial start-ups with proven business models and proven social impact to submit their business plans. Operationally supported by the Austrian Development Agency and the WFP Innovation Accelerator, the award aims to raise awareness of the potential of African entrepreneurs to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, honouring the late Kofi Annan's commitment to a fairer and more equitable world.
How it works
- Source: A pan-African call for innovation is launched and promoted by international and regional partners.
- Impulse: Nine teams are invited to take part in innovation training and present themselves to a jury.
- Prize: The three teams with the greatest potential receive €250,000. The winners are presented at a prestigious public event.
- Accelerate: The three winning teams receive support for 12 months to build the foundations for growth.
Tackling SDG 2 "Zero Hunger"
The urgency of transforming the world's agri-food systems was emphasised in the UN report "The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2023". With global hunger still above pre-pandemic levels, it is crucial to address this challenge, especially in Africa. Austria's commitment to the World Food Programme reflects its dedication to fighting hunger, with an additional 60 million euros pledged for the years 2023 to 2025.
Increasing innovation and collaboration is vital, as evidenced by the growing number of agricultural technology suppliers. The term AGRI-TECH covers technological innovations that increase production, efficiency and profitability. The Austrian Federal Chancellery intends to contribute to this effort with the 2nd edition of the Kofi Annan Prize, recognising that innovative ideas and creative impulses are essential for building a robust food supply in the future.
