Waste Turning into Compost Production
AgriWomen Global Exchange Online Session connects women in agriculture worldwide, creating a space for shared learning, collaboration, and sustainable innovation. Our new online session series brings together Women in Ag Award Winners, experts, and the Female Agri Fellows Network to exchange real‑world insights and strengthen global connections.
The first session spotlights Africa with the theme “Waste Turning into Compost Production”, featuring inspiring success stories and interactive discussion.
Three Women in Ag Award Winners will share their business models, experiences, and practical insights—demonstrating how agricultural waste can be transformed into valuable resources that support sustainable farming. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and build meaningful connections during the Q&A session.
Participants
Women in Ag Award Winners & Nominees, industry experts, Female Agri Fellows, and women leaders in agriculture.
Joyce Rugano, Kenya
Women in Ag Award – Agribusiness Category 2025 – 1st Place Winner
Joyce Rugano is a Kenyan entrepreneur and founder of Ecorich Solutions Limited, a climate‑tech company that turns food waste into organic fertilizer within 24 hours using the AI‑enabled, solar‑powered Wastebot. Her circular solution improves soil health, reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers, and supports regenerative farming. Joyce’s innovation has reached thousands of farmers, created green jobs, and strengthened local food systems across Kenya — driving climate‑smart agriculture and a more resilient future.
Alicia Gómez Giménez, Cabo Verde
Women in Ag Award – Agribusiness Category 2025 – 3rd Place Winner
Alicia Gómez Giménez is the founder and CEO of Manderly Agriculture, a solar‑powered, circular farming project on Sal, Cabo Verde. By growing gourmet produce using recycled hotel water in an extremely arid environment, she demonstrates that agritech can succeed where farming was once deemed impossible. Her closed‑loop system supplies premium crops to local hotels, creates skilled jobs for women, and strengthens food security in Small Island Developing States. Through Manderly Agriculture, Alicia is redefining sustainable, place‑based agriculture.
Prof. Mabel Onwuka, Nigeria
Women in Ag Award – Education Category 2025 – Nominee
Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka is a Professor of Soil Science and Director of the Center for Gender, Youth and Child Development at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture in Nigeria. She empowers women and youth through climate‑smart agriculture, biochar and compost production, soil regeneration, and practical community training. Her work strengthens food security, promotes sustainable farming, and advances women’s economic empowerment — shaping a more resilient and inclusive agricultural future.
Nathalie Joest, Germany
Nathalie Joest is the Head of Communities at DLG e.V. (German Agricultural Society), where she strengthens networks and fosters dialogue across the agricultural sector. She plays an active role in the Female Agri Fellows network and co‑hosts its podcast series, highlighting women’s leadership and empowerment in agribusiness. Nathalie also leads the organization of the Women in Ag Award, helping showcase and celebrate outstanding female innovators shaping the future of agriculture.
Location
Online Session
Language: English
Date
18 March 2026
2:00 – 3:00 p.m. (CET)
Contact
DLG e. V.
Female Agri Fellows Team
FemaleAgriFellows@DLG.org
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