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The awards celebrate the achievements of women who are making significant strides in agriculture and agroprocessing.
The awards are a key initiative for empowering and honouring women in agriculture and recognising their pivotal role in the fight against poverty, hunger, and unemployment.
During Kontsiwe’s address, she emphasised the importance of women’s roles in society and the agriculture sector.
“While some may view women as a vulnerable group, the truth is that they hold tremendous potential to transform society. In the Eastern Cape, where colonial oppression deeply impacted our communities, women stepped up, ensuring their families were fed and their homes were sustained. As we discuss food security and the green revolution within the African context, it is clear that women must be at the forefront of these efforts,” she said.
Kontsiwe further highlighted the significance of the awards, which were initiated in 1999 to address the underrepresentation of women in agriculture.
“These awards are not just about recognition; they are about empowerment. They acknowledge the vital role that women play in ensuring food security, creating jobs, driving economic growth, and alleviating poverty in our communities,” she said.
One of the evening’s highlights was the awarding of the top award, a cash prize of R110 000, to Pama Bonita Tokota from the Chris Hani District Municipality. Tokota, who owns Twinbird Poultry Farming, has made remarkable progress in the poultry farming industry.
“I am grateful for this recognition. I started with just 200 chicks per batch, funded solely by my family’s savings, and have now expanded the operation to include three broiler houses that house 1 000 broilers per batch,” she said.
Tokota’s enterprise, which includes a modern abattoir, has created 14 permanent jobs and 19 seasonal positions in the local community.
Her success has also led to contractual agreements with local businesses, including B&Bs, schools and supermarkets. She was recognised not only for her business acumen but also her commitment to community development, as she regularly holds information days to share her knowledge with the local youth.
The winners of the Eastern Cape awards will go on to represent the province at the national Women Entrepreneur Awards event.
