…She shares the US$100,000 Prize with Prof Mary Abukutsa-Onyango from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
FRI SEPT 05 2025-theGBJournal| The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)-CGIAR Seed Specialist, and founder of GoSeed Limited Nigeria, Dr. Mercy Elohor Diebiru-Ojo has been named Africa Food Prize 2025 laureate.
Dr. Diebiru-Ojo shares the US$100,000 Prize, which was announced at the Africa Food Systems Forum in Dakar, with Prof Mary Abukutsa-Onyango from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.
Dr. Diebiru-Ojo earned her prize for her outstanding contributions to advancing Africa’s agricultural transformation through the widespread promotion of a novel node culture technology for cassava and yam called semi-autotrophic hydroponics (SAH).
Mercy was cited for her work in accelerating the production of disease-free planting materials, ensuring the faster and more efficient dissemination of cassava and yam—two staples that feed hundreds of millions of Africans.
Her work has transitioned beyond research to practical application, supporting the development of stronger seed systems in multiple countries.
This has not only boosted agricultural productivity but also created opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs, is strengthening food security, and opening new pathways for sustainability livelihoods.
This is the second Africa Food Prize award for IITA. IITA was the first institution that received the Africa Food Prize in 2018 for its leadership and innovation in finding solutions to Africa’s pressing challenges.
The Africa Food Prize is sponsored by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), and it is the only award dedicated solely to agriculture and food systems.
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