Agricoop Awards 2024: Celebrating Excellence in Agriculture

The 3rd edition of the prestigious Agricoop Awards took place on September 26, 2024, at the Golden Peacock Hotel in Lusaka, recognizing outstanding farmers and agricultural enterprises across Zambia. The awards were graced by Mrs. Msoka, Director of Agribusiness and Marketing at the Ministry of Agriculture, who represented the Minister of Agriculture, unable to attend due to other key commitments.

The night was a celebration of agricultural innovation, hard work, and dedication, with a strong call for continued support from all stakeholders to strengthen Zambia's agricultural sector. As the event unfolded, it became clear that the future of agriculture in the country is being shaped by passionate individuals committed to excellence.

2024 Agricoop Awards Winners:

• Young Farmer of the Year: Charles Sakala - Charsmen Farms
  Sponsored by Synergy
• Upcoming Farmer of the Year: Twapegwa M. Kapeyo - Help Twenty Four Seven Farm
  Sponsored by Zamseed
• Mixed Farmer of the Year: Chimuka Mweetwa - Clay Jar Farms
• Maize Farmer of the Year: Robert Ntapwa
  Sponsored by Zamseed
• Arable Farmer of the Year: Chinda James
  Sponsored by ATS Agrochemicals
• Agriculture Cooperative of the Year: Banjimi Cooperative
• Agribusiness Reporter of the Year: Masauso Mukwayaya
• Agriculture Out Grower Scheme of the Year: Nguvu Zaibatsu Investments Limited
• Vegetable Farmer of the Year: Bruno Mweemba – Panuka Farms
  Sponsored by SeedCo
• Fish Farmer of the Year: Akataluka Kaluwe
  Sponsored by Namfeed
• Livestock Farmer of the Year: BC & S Farms
• Mechanized Small-Scale Farmer of the Year: Katina Phiri
  Sponsored by Agleaseco
• Pig Farmer of the Year: Ignatius Chinyama Malwa - Chinyama Pig Farm
• Poultry Farmer of the Year: Sheila Kabonso
  Sponsored by Nemchem Agri
• Environmental Champion of the Year: Chimuka Mweetwa - Clay Jar Farms
  Sponsored by RDG
• Agriculture Student of the Year: Blessings Salasini
  Sponsored by SARO
• Farmer of the Year: Katina Phiri

The evening highlighted the growing importance of sustainability and innovation, with Katina Phiri taking home the coveted Farmer of the Year award and also winning Mechanized Small-Scale Farmer of the Year, sponsored by Agleaseco. Her inspiring journey is a testament to the hard work and creativity that are driving forces behind Zambia's agricultural development.

Looking Ahead: Nominations for 2025 Open

As we reflect on the successes of the 2024 Agricoop Awards, we are excited to announce that nominations for the 2025 edition are already open. The Agricoop Awards will continue to shine a spotlight on those making a lasting impact in the agricultural sector. Be part of this incredible journey as we celebrate innovation and dedication in Zambia's agricultural community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, partners, and all who attended, making the 2024 Agricoop Awards a tremendous success.

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