admin | February 17, 2026
Announcing the winners of the 2026 Farm Radio Awards
Farm Radio International is proud to once again recognize excellence in African radio broadcasting through the annual Farm Radio Awards. This year’s celebrations highlight the remarkable achievements of the recipients of the George Atkins Communication Award and the Liz Hughes Award for Her Farm Radio. Their work reflects the vital role radio continues to play in informing, engaging, and improving the lives of farming communities across Africa. We celebrate their dedication and impact, and we’re excited to see how their work continues to grow and inspire.
On Feb. 13, 2026—World Radio Day—we hosted a special bilingual event (English and French) to recognize our winners and runners-up. Scroll down to learn more about these incredible broadcasters and their impactful programs.
Detailed profiles of the award winners and their programs will be available on farmradio.org and wire.farmradio.fm.
The George Atkins Communication Award annually honours individual radio broadcasters for their exceptional dedication and impactful work in promoting food security and reducing poverty. This award is granted to broadcasters who demonstrate excellence in meeting the needs of small-scale farmers and who maintain a strong partnership with Farm Radio International. Named in honour of George Atkins, the founder of Farm Radio International, this award celebrates his legacy and commitment to the field.
This year’s winners are:
Lydia Oko-Epelle
Since 2018, Lydia Oko-Epelle has used radio to empower rural communities in Osun State, Nigeria. A broadcaster and Station Coordinator at Redeemer’s 103.5 FM, she creates engaging programs that make topics such as climate-smart farming, soil health, biodiversity, and Nature-Based Solutions practical for small-scale farmers and traders. Drawing on drama, interviews, local proverbs, and listener feedback, she ensures farmers’ voices shape the conversation. Through her work with Farm Radio International, Ms. Oko-Epelle has become a trusted advocate for inclusive, community-driven radio.
Ayero Annet
Since 2018, Ayero Annet has used radio to empower small-scale farmers in Northern Uganda. A presenter at Radio WA in Lira City, she produces and hosts the long-running Farmers Program, using storytelling and expert insights to turn complex agricultural issues into practical advice. Her work promotes peer-to-peer learning by highlighting successful farmers and real-life solutions. Currently, she leads the “Ngomwa Aye Anyim” (“Our Land, Our Future”) campaign on sustainable land use and circular farming. Through interactive broadcasts and social media, Annet has become a trusted voice for farming communities across the region.
Kpira Odette
Kpira Odette is a seasoned journalist and radio presenter from northern Togo, with nearly two decades of experience producing agricultural programming. At Radio Lomé, she hosts Magazine agricole and is preparing Terre nourricière, an interactive program connecting farmers directly with agronomists. Using storytelling, research, and close engagement with rural communities, she informs, educates, and advocates for producers across Togo. Her work, supported by Farm Radio International, empowers farmers to adopt better practices, navigate challenges like drought, and have their voices heard, making her a trusted and influential figure in agricultural broadcasting.
The Liz Hughes Award for Her Farm Radio honors outstanding radio programs that engage and serve women listeners. These programs are recognized for promoting gender equality by highlighting women’s perspectives, exploring issues that matter to them, and encouraging men’s participation in supporting equality. The award also celebrates the dedication and teamwork of the production teams behind these impactful broadcasts.
Winner: Kuoraa Tona (Farmer Benefit) , Radio Progress
Radio Progress, based in Ghana’s Upper West Region, empowers rural women, particularly young women, through its program Kuoraa Tona (Farmer Benefit). The program addresses challenges such as limited access to land, unequal decision-making, and barriers in agriculture and agribusiness. By including both men and women in discussions, Kuoraa Tona promotes gender equality and collaboration. Featuring experts, community leaders, and everyday farmers, the program shares practical advice, showcases inspiring women role models, and connects listeners to resources and markets—strengthening women’s agency, resilience, and leadership in their communities.
Runner-up: Girls Rise, Mlimi Radio
Mlimi Radio, broadcasting from Malawi’s Central Region, uplifts young women through its program Girls Rise, which addresses gender equality, teen pregnancies, and early marriages. Girls Rise amplifies girls’ voices, showcases role models, and provides expert guidance on education, leadership, and economic empowerment. By engaging men and boys alongside women and girls, the program fosters dialogue, challenges harmful stereotypes, and promotes shared responsibility in communities. Through interactive discussions, real-life testimonies, and collaborations with local organizations, Girls Rise inspires action, supports girls’ rights, and encourages lasting social change.
