African Food Influencers Awards
Africa's Food Industry Recognition Platform
AFIA 2026 — In Partnership with CAPA — Coming November 2026
Celebrating the chefs, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and leaders shaping Africa's culinary future.
What is AFIA?
The African Food Influencers Awards is Africa’s definitive recognition platform for excellence in food, culinary arts, and food industry leadership.
Organised annually, AFIA honours the individuals and brands making a measurable, lasting contribution to Africa’s food ecosystem — across culinary arts, entrepreneurship, media storytelling, and cultural preservation.
The awards are built on three principles that do not change: impact over popularity, independent jury, and zero pay-to-play.
AFIA 2026
AFIA 2026 is convened by African Food Network in partnership with CAPA — Culinary Art Practitioners Association of Nigeria — as National Host and Chef Network Partner.
AFIA 2026 Nominations Are Opening Soon
Know someone who has made a genuine, measurable contribution to Africa's food ecosystem? AFIA 2026 nominations open in November 2026. Be the first to know when they do.
From the Inaugural Edition
AFIA 2025 — The First Class
In 2025, the African Food Influencers Awards held its inaugural edition — bringing together the first class of honourees recognised for their contribution to Africa's food ecosystem.
Chef Hilda Baci
Chef of the Year
Nigeria
A global record-breaking chef whose achievements following her Guinness World Record have positioned Nigerian cuisine on the world stage.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina
Lifetime Achievement Award
Nigeria
As President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Adesina has been instrumental in financing and promoting Africa's food security agenda for over two decades.
Chef Neo Nontso
Rising Star in Food & Drinks
South Africa
A fast-rising chef, cookbook author, and TV personality promoting modern South African cuisine to new audiences.
AFIA 2026 Partners
Delivered in Partnership
National Host and Chef Network Partner — AFIA 2026
AFIA 2026 is convened by African Food Network in partnership with CAPA as National Host and Chef Network Partner.
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