The Pan-Africa Bean Research Alliance (PABRA) was awarded the prestigious Africa Food Prize for 2023 in Africa Food System Forum Summit (AGRF 2023) that took place in Dar es Salaam on the 7th September, PABRA was recognized in their exceptional leadership in developing a multitude of bean varieties that enhance farm productivity, profitability, and meet the growing demand of consumers. The announcement was made during the AGRF2023 held in Tanzania by former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, the Chairperson of the Africa Food Prize.
The Africa Food Prize: Celebrating Innovation
The Africa Food Prize initiative calls for nominations of remarkable individuals or institutions every year, individuals or entities that are spearheading efforts to revolutionize farming in Africa. The $100,000 prize serves as a platform to highlight bold initiatives and technical innovations that can be replicated across the continent, ushering in a new era of food security and economic opportunity for all Africans.
A Beacon of Dedication and Commitment
PABRA has consistently shown unwavering dedication and commitment to improving nutrition and food security across Africa through the utilization of beans, a critical source of plant-based proteins and essential micronutrients such as iron and zinc. PABRA’s recognition is a testament to their relentless efforts in breeding new bean varieties and ensuring their accessibility to farmers throughout the continent. Their research and development initiatives have generated a profound positive impact on countless lives, particularly within communities grappling with food insecurity and malnutrition.
A Wealth of Varieties Changing Lives
PABRA members have introduced over 650 improved bean varieties, each possessing diverse favorable characteristics. These varieties are now cultivated by more than 37 million smallholder farmers across Africa and consumed by a staggering 300 million people. These beans are enhancing nutrition, health, and food security, particularly in regions where malnutrition is a persistent challenge. As beans are typically managed by women, PABRA’s work contributes to better diets and increased income for numerous families.
A Commendable Contribution to Agriculture
H.E. Jakaya Kikwete praised PABRA for its exceptional contribution to farm productivity, resilience, and competitiveness on the African continent. He stated, “PABRA’s dedication to bean research and development, as well as their remarkable impact in overcoming malnutrition through the creation of improved bean varieties and complementary technologies, is commendable. Their work perfectly aligns with the goals of the Africa Food Prize, and I am delighted to announce them as the 2023 laureates.”
A Win for Women in Agriculture
In response to receiving the award, Mr. Jean Claude Rubyogo, Global Bean Program Leader at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, and PABRA Director, expressed his gratitude and commitment to the cause. He emphasized, “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire PABRA team, its members, including all the National Research Institutes and their governments, implementing partners, funders, and the smallholder farmers we serve.” He also highlighted the significance of the award in empowering women throughout the bean value chain and promoting sustainable food systems.
A Historic Moment for PABRA
Winning the 2023 Africa Food Prize represents a significant and historic milestone for PABRA, following their celebration of 25 years of bean research and development last year and the launch of the bean movement, promoting beans as a superfood. PABRA’s recognition reflects a victory for women in agriculture and sustainable food systems, acknowledging their pivotal role.