The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has officially invited qualifying farmers and agricultural businesses to submit entries for the 2026 Youth and Women Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, an initiative designed to celebrate outstanding achievements in the province’s agricultural sector.
The annual competition aims to recognise the growing role of women and young entrepreneurs in farming while encouraging greater participation in agriculture as a driver of food security, employment, and economic development.
Awards Aim to Strengthen Agricultural Growth
According to the department, the awards form part of broader efforts to support inclusive growth in agriculture by highlighting successful enterprises led by women and young people.
North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Madoda Sambatha said the programme provides an opportunity to honour individuals who have demonstrated excellence in farming while inspiring others to pursue opportunities in the sector despite ongoing challenges.
He noted that recognising innovation and dedication among agricultural entrepreneurs remains an important part of strengthening the province’s farming industry.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
The competition is open to youth- and women-owned agricultural enterprises operating within the North West province that meet the established eligibility criteria.
Applicants entering the youth category must be between the ages of 18 and 35, while participating businesses must be at least 80% owned, managed, and operated by either young people or women.
The department encouraged all eligible entrepreneurs to submit their applications before the closing date.
Multiple Award Categories Available
Winners will be selected across several categories reflecting different areas of agricultural excellence.
The categories include:
- Best Youth/Woman Subsistence Farmer
- Best Youth/Woman Smallholder Farmer
- Best Youth/Woman Commercial Farmer
- Best Youth/Woman Exporter
- Best Youth/Woman Person with Disability
- Best Youth/Woman Agro-Processor
- Best Youth/Woman Worker
- Overall Youth/Woman Winner
The department said the awards are intended to recognise achievements across the agricultural value chain, from primary production to processing and exports.
Applications Close in August
Entries for the 2026 competition will remain open until Friday, 28 August 2026, with successful participants to be honoured during an awards ceremony scheduled for Heritage Month in September.
Interested applicants can obtain application forms through district coordinators or by visiting their nearest district or local agriculture office.
Additional enquiries may also be directed to the department’s Provincial Project Coordinator.
Verification Process to Determine Finalists
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said every application will undergo a formal verification process to ensure compliance with the competition’s eligibility requirements.
Shortlisted projects will then be evaluated through on-site assessments before the final nominees are confirmed, ensuring that winners are selected based on verified achievements and the impact of their agricultural enterprises.
