Alice Ruhweza Named AGRA’s New President: A Visionary Leader to Drive Africa’s Agricultural Transformation

The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) has announced the appointment of Alice Ruhweza as its next President, effective March 1, 2025. This pivotal decision follows an extensive global search in collaboration with leadership consultancy Spencer Stuart. Ruhweza will succeed Dr. Agnes Kalibata, who has led AGRA through a decade of impactful transformation.

Meet Alice Ruhweza: A Leader with Global Expertise

Alice Ruhweza brings nearly three decades of experience at the nexus of economic, social, and environmental policy. As a renowned international development expert, she has held influential positions across government, the private sector, the United Nations, and prominent NGOs. Most recently, she served at the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), where her advocacy focused on fostering inclusive agri-food systems to combat climate change, restore ecosystems, and ensure food security for millions across Africa.

Her appointment signals AGRA’s commitment to scaling sustainable agricultural practices and empowering smallholder farmers to thrive in an evolving global landscape.

AGRA’s Leadership Welcomes Ruhweza

H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn, Chair of AGRA’s Board, shared his enthusiasm:

“Alice Ruhweza’s wealth of international experience and deep understanding of Africa’s agricultural landscape make her uniquely qualified to lead AGRA into its next chapter. We are confident in her ability to strengthen partnerships, drive innovation, and build on Dr. Kalibata’s solid foundation. Her leadership will be pivotal as we address pressing challenges and deliver measurable results for smallholder farmers.”

A Legacy of Transformation

Outgoing President Dr. Agnes Kalibata reflected on her tenure, emphasizing AGRA’s growth into a cornerstone of African agricultural development:

“The last decade has been a transformative journey for AGRA. Together with our partners, we’ve built a resilient institution equipped to tackle the challenges facing Africa’s smallholder farmers. I am proud to pass the baton to Alice Ruhweza, whose vision and expertise will propel AGRA’s mission forward.”

A Vision for Africa’s Agri-Food Future

Alice Ruhweza expressed her excitement and outlined her priorities as AGRA’s incoming President:

“Africa’s agri-food systems hold the key to unlocking economic growth, creating jobs, and addressing climate challenges. Yet, the sector remains vulnerable to economic instability, geopolitical tensions, and other crises. To achieve sustainable and resilient food systems, Africa must prioritize bold investments in research, innovative technologies, climate-smart practices, and supportive policies.

I am honored to join AGRA at this critical moment as African leaders prepare to adopt the next CAADP strategy for 2026-2035. I look forward to building on Dr. Kalibata’s remarkable achievements and collaborating with partners and stakeholders to advance a food-secure future for Africa.”

Driving Agricultural Innovation and Food Security

As AGRA enters a new era under Ruhweza’s leadership, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to transform agriculture into a cornerstone of prosperity across Africa. With a focus on smallholder farmers, AGRA aims to harness innovation, foster partnerships, and create inclusive systems that deliver tangible results for millions of African families.

Stay connected with AGRA to follow this exciting journey toward agricultural transformation and food security in Africa.