NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 5 – The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) has appointed Alice Ruhweza as its new President, succeeding Dr. Agnes Kalibata, who served two successful terms.
Ruhweza’s appointment aligns with AGRA’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, which focuses on strengthening market systems, fostering inclusive agricultural growth, addressing climate change, and expanding financial access for smallholder farmers.
AGRA Board Chair, Hailemariam Dessalegn, expressed confidence in Ruhweza’s leadership.
“We are excited to have Alice Ruhweza on board. Her deep understanding of Africa’s agricultural landscape and extensive experience equip her to lead AGRA into its next phase. We trust her to build on Dr. Kalibata’s foundation and drive cross-sector collaboration for meaningful impact.”
Ruhweza, who brings over 28 years of experience in economic, social, and environmental policy, previously served as Regional Director for Africa at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), championing sustainable agriculture and conservation.
She also held key roles at Conservation International and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where she helped mobilize over $600 million for environmental initiatives across 40 sub-Saharan African countries.
Dr. Kalibata, reflecting on her tenure, expressed optimism about AGRA’s future.
“As I transition from my role, I am immensely proud of AGRA’s progress in transforming Africa’s food systems. The organization is now stronger than ever, and I have no doubt that Alice Ruhweza’s leadership will take it to even greater heights.”
AGRA, headquartered in Nairobi, operates in 12 African countries, supporting smallholder farmers in crop and livestock production.
In Kenya, it works in 20 counties to strengthen agricultural value chains and promote climate-resilient farming.
Ruhweza emphasized agriculture’s role in Africa’s economic transformation.
“Agriculture is Africa’s most powerful engine for economic growth, job creation, and climate resilience. I am honored to join AGRA and look forward to working with partners, governments, and farmers to transform Africa’s food systems.”
Holding a Master’s degree in Agricultural and Applied Economics from the University of Wisconsin and a Bachelor’s in Social Sciences from Makerere University, Ruhweza is well-positioned to drive AGRA’s agenda forward.
