The race to celebrate Africa’s food and agriculture champions has officially begun as public nominations open for the inaugural Foodies Choice Awards across Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. The consumer-driven initiative, launched by Maxima Media Group, aims to spotlight governments, farmers, agribusinesses, food brands, chefs and other stakeholders making significant contributions to the continent’s rapidly evolving food ecosystem.
Designed to honour excellence across 50 award categories, the Foodies Choice Awards will recognise achievements in agriculture, culinary arts, hospitality, food media, tourism and support services. Unlike traditional industry awards, consumers will play a central role by nominating and voting for individuals and organisations they believe are creating meaningful impact in the sector. Organisers say the platform is intended to amplify the voices of everyday consumers while rewarding innovation and quality.
The launch comes at a crucial time for Nigeria and other African nations seeking to strengthen food security and unlock the economic potential of agriculture. With agriculture contributing a substantial share of Nigeria’s GDP and providing livelihoods for millions, recent investments and policy reforms have renewed confidence in the sector. Organisers highlighted the Federal Government’s $500 million agricultural investment fund as one of several initiatives expected to boost food production, attract private investment and expand agribusiness opportunities.
Speaking at the launch, Maxima Media Group Founder and Group Chief Executive Officer, Oluwafemi Ogundoro, described the awards as more than a recognition platform. According to him, the initiative is a movement designed to celebrate credibility, inspire excellence and encourage greater competitiveness across Africa’s food industry. He noted that from farms and markets to restaurants and innovation hubs, countless individuals and businesses are helping transform lives and strengthen local economies through food-related enterprises.
To reinforce transparency and credibility, KPMG has been appointed as the official assurance partner to oversee the nomination, validation and voting processes. The inaugural Foodies Choice Awards is scheduled to hold in Lagos this November, bringing together policymakers, investors, development partners, agribusiness leaders, chefs, entrepreneurs and other industry players from across Africa. Organisers believe the initiative will not only recognise excellence but also foster dialogue, investment and collaboration needed to advance Africa’s ambition of building a $1 trillion food economy by 2030.
source: The guardian
