FEATURED: Five agripreneurs advance to AYuTe Rwanda 2025 finals, eyeing Rwf50m prize

Five young agritech innovators have advanced to the grand finale of the 2025 AYuTe Africa Challenge Rwanda, Heifer Rwanda announced on March 28. Launched in 2023 as part of Heifer International’s AYuTe Africa Next Gen initiative, the competition identifies and supports young agritech innovators developing scalable solutions for smallholder farmers. This year’s finalists are Niyidukunda Mugeni of Avocare Ltd, Muyombano Happy Axel of Ampere Vision Rwanda Ltd, Muhiza Frank of Extra Technologies Ltd, Sabina Marie Rose of Green Energy Technology Ltd, and Tresor Gashonga of IncutiFoods Ltd. A path to funding and growth The top three winners among the five will share a total of Rwf50 million in cash grants and receive additional resources to scale their ventures. They will also have the opportunity to compete at the regional level. From an initial pool of over 500 entrants, these five finalists progressed through a rigorous evaluation process, culminating in a four-day boot camp and a final round of live pitches. Verena Ruzibuka, Country Director of Heifer International Rwanda, praised the finalists for their dedication: “Congratulations to the top five finalists of the AYuTeChallenge. Your dedication, innovation, and passion for transforming agriculture are truly inspiring. The AYuTeChallenge is more than just a competition; it’s a catalyst for change. At Heifer, we believe that by equipping young innovators and entrepreneurs with the tools and support they need, we are shaping the future of food systems in Rwanda and beyond, making them more resilient, productive, inclusive, and profitable. See you all on April 30 for the grand finale.” Innovative agribusiness solutions on display The four-day boot camp saw 10 young agripreneurs pitch innovative agribusiness solutions incorporating drones, hydroponics, solar power, and biotechnology, all aimed at supporting smallholder farmers and increasing employment opportunities in Rwanda and beyond. Among the finalists, Tresor Gashonga of Incuti Foods shared his excitement about progressing to the next stage: “I had a great experience at boot camp, connecting with other entrepreneurs with amazing ideas. I’m delighted to advance to the next stage. Now, I’m focused on preparing for the finale and applying the skills I’ve learned to take my business to the next level.” Gashonga aims to expand his local hot sauce brand, IncutiFoods, to international markets while supporting over 8,000 farmers in the process. Similarly, Euphrosine Mugeni Niyidukunda of Avocare Ltd expressed her enthusiasm: “Everyone at boot camp had a great solution, and I’m excited and very happy to be in the top five. Now, I’m setting my sights on the final. If Avocare wins, we will grow our production capacity, increase the number of farmers we work with, and create economic opportunities for more youth and women, especially in rural areas.” Beyond cash prizes: Training and mentorship In addition to the financial support, the AYuTe Challenge provides training and mentorship to young entrepreneurs. During boot camp, the 2025 cohort attended masterclass sessions on business model development, go-to-market strategies, and scaling approaches. These sessions were complemented by expert mentorship, helping candidates refine their business plans and prepare for the final pitch to a panel of judges. The grand finale, hosted by Heifer International, will take place on April 30, bringing together dignitaries, industry experts, and key partners to celebrate and support young agripreneurs driving change in Rwanda’s agriculture sector.

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FEATURED: Five agripreneurs advance to AYuTe Rwanda 2025 finals, eyeing Rwf50m prize