Unsung heroes
Photography competition 2024
In 2024, #AfricanCITYFOODMonth called on photographers across the continent to capture and share stories of hidden or unsung food system heroes in their cities. We received over 180 submissions, each highlighting inspiring individuals who transform the way we understand, produce, consume, and experience our food. After careful consideration, we narrowed it down to 15 standout entries, featuring heroes ranging from those preserving traditional food cultures and market vendors to scholars and researchers exploring food system dynamics.
Discover the shortlisted entries and 3 winners in this photography showcase!
Winners
Manufacturing of "Koba" - Andriantsoa Heritiana Razafindraleva
Food systems hero: Madame Rossy
Antananarivo, Madagascar
Entry description: In this captivating photograph, a Malagasy woman skillfully prepares “koba” (a sweet made from ground peanuts, brown sugar and rice flour) in her humble kitchen workshop. Her hands, seasoned by years of experience, carefully wrap the mixture of rice flour, peanuts and sugar in banana leaves. This traditional delicacy, which she has perfected over time, feeds not only her family but also her community. She is a true hero in Madagascar’s food system, preserving culinary heritage while sustaining local livelihoods. Her dedication, resilience and craft embody the spirit of Madagascar’s rich cultural and gastronomic traditions.
“Even if your hand hurts, first look at your empty stomach.” – Madame Rossy
My Daily Hustle - Oluwayemisi Onadipe
Food systems hero: Bose Adekanbi
Lagos, Nigeria
“Bose Adekanbi is a mosa (snack) seller who communes from Ogun State to Lagos State on a weekly basis to make a living. At age 60, she still finds it exciting to personally prepare this tasty snack for the patrons she expects to receive in one of Africa’s bustling cities. She sources her materials and ingredients from Ogun State, where she resides and prepares the snack before transporting it to Lagos at the beginning of the week.”
“Patience, precision and hard work are necessary requirements to making a tasty snack.” – Bose Adekanbi
Uncle fox - Ahmad Mansour
Food systems hero: Uncle Fox
Cairo, Egypt
Entry description: Uncle Fox’s Grilled Fish
In the heart of Kom El-Dikka, there’s a hidden gem known as Uncle Fox’s Fish Shop. Uncle Fox is famous in the neighborhood for his perfectly grilled fish, a dish that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.
The secret to his mouthwatering fish lies in the special marinade and the unique way he prepares it. Uncle Fox carefully seasons the fish, coating it with a mix of spices and a layer of bran before grilling it over an open flame. The result is a crispy, flavorful exterior that locks in the tender, juicy fish inside.
The meal is not complete without the sides he serves – fresh salad and slices of lemon that add a zesty touch, perfectly complementing the rich taste of the fish. Uncle Fox’s place isn’t just a fish shop; it’s a culinary experience that captures the essence of traditional Egyptian flavors in Kom El-Dikka.
“Try it once — you will come again.” – Uncle Fox
Shortlisted entries
A Noble Food Soldier - Dennis Andaye
Food systems hero: Mary Mugo
“You see, I don’t want to be a burden to anyone. As long as I can work, I'm happy to cater for my own needs. I know there're many my age who always stretch their hands out to their children."
Nairobi, Kenya
Entry description: Mary Mugo has been a dedicated smallholder farmer all her life. She is in her 70s now and still has the zest to keep producing. With lots of love, she has dedicated her life to ecological production methods. Some of the produce she pulls from the earth gets bought at the farm gate, and the excess she sells at a weekly farmers’ market. What she does is so noble, and her contribution in providing ingredients to feed us all is incredible. She is gem that many would like to see in the fields.
“You see, I don’t want to be a burden to anyone. As long as I can work, I’m happy to cater for my own needs. I know there’re many my age who always stretch their hands out to their children.” – Mary Mugo
Baba Chaga - Ene Ochayi
Food systems hero: Chaga Godwin
Makurdi, Nigeria
Entry description: Baba Chaga, over 60 years old, roasts and sells maize beside the Benue State University gate, a food business typically run by women in my city. With a lifelong love for maize and a dedication to supporting his family, he transforms his evenings after working as a driver into a cherished hobby. His maize stand offers students of the University and even passers-by a quick, healthy snack, and he’s easily recognised in his corporate attire. Baba Chaga’s commitment not only challenges traditional gender roles but also highlights his unwavering dedication to both his family and his city — a true hero.
“Roasting maize is something I enjoy doing. It gives me joy that people come around to buy maize. Also, I’m glad that I take the profit from this business to take care of my family in addition to my salary.” – Chaga Godwin
Colorful Net - Hanan Maamoun
Food systems hero: The Old Fisherman
Cairo, Egypt
Entry description: Fishermen in Kafr El-Sheikh wake up at dawn to catch small fish, which are edible and also used as bait for catching larger fish. Regardless of the weather conditions or cold temperatures, the fishermen go out to sea with their colorful nets, ready to catch fish. After that, they return to shore to search for small fish among the sand in the nets. The old fisherman also teaches his children and grandchildren in the village this trade to ensure it is passed down through generations.
“Patience, determination and reliance on God are the driving forces of our day.” – The Old Fisherman
Farm to Table - Calvin Kulaya
Food systems hero: Khunti Bashiri
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
“Recently I documented a photo story of a young lady from Pandambili, Tanzania to showcase the hard work and dedication of small-scale women farmers. Khunti Bashiri cultivates and transforms her sunflowers into liquid gold, bringing nourishing and healthy sunflower oil to her community. Through her dedication and hard work, Khunti is helping to pave the way for a brighter future for small-scale women farmers in Tanzania and beyond. She is an inspiration to all those who strive to create a more sustainable, equitable and resilient food system.”
Food Heals the Soul - Nicholas Shawn Mugarura
Food systems hero: Neema Maye
Kampala, Uganda
Entry description: Neema Maye is a 27-year-old Congolese refugee farmer and business woman. She opened her restaurant a few months after attending a baking training offered by a local humanitarian organisation at a refugee settlement camp in 2023. She came to Uganda in 2018 on a boat through Lake Albert after war broke out in her village back in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Life was difficult when they first arrived at the Kyangwali refugee settlement; her only worry then was about food and shelter. She says now after settling she is focused on expanding her business to serve the big refugee population at a good price. She currently serves tea, fried bread, fried fish and her own grown potatoes in a small trading centre in the refugee settlement.
“I started by planting maize and Irish potatoes at my small plot in the camp. I was lucky enough to attend a baking training; I used the acquired knowledge to bake and sell baked mandazi [bread] from my veranda at home and sending my brothers to sell in the trading centre. I saved up all the profits with the aim of opening up a restaurant. I now own a small restaurant and am in total control of my business. I’m grateful that I have something to do; I rarely think about the traumatic experience I went through back at home, and I’m happy to put smiles on my people’s faces — we can’t starve anymore.” – Neema Maye
Green Gold - An Extended Archive - Michael EKow Dawson
Food systems hero: Madam Felicia Atoa
Bolgatanga, Ghana
Entry description: Shea butter is a vital industry transforming the lives of women in northern Ghana. Madam Felicia and the women in the north are the ones making the magic in our homes. By turning the shea nuts into shea butter, they created a blueprint that has been passed on for generations. The patterns on their skin are like lines from an ancient book, filled with knowledge that has shaped many lives. Our mothers, preserving not only the flavors but also the stories of our heritage, have carried it all; the earth knows it and the earth is grateful to them.
“I started shea butter processing over 20 years ago, and I processed the shea butter with my mother. When I was small, I used to see my mother process shea butter and we used to pick the nuts and sell.” – Madam Felicia Atoa
In the Shadow of War, Jonathan's Daily Battle Shines Through - Marie Jeanne Munyerenkana
Food systems hero: Jonathan Matumbani
Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo
Entry description: Jonathan, a 22-year-old from Goma, is a support to his family. Faced with the challenges of a city at war and overpopulated by displaced warriors, he had to give up his studies for a lack of means. For the past year, he has taken on the responsibility of providing for his family, after his parents lost their jobs following the takeover of Bunagana, where his parents worked, by M23 rebels. With a small business preparing Rolexes, Jonathan has turned this challenge into a source of survival. He prepares Rolexes with care and precision, embodying hope and courage, and inspiring those around him in these difficult times.
“My parents gave me everything they could, despite the ravages of war. Now it’s up to me to make them proud.” – Jonathan Matumbani
Masa for the Masses - Thankgod Rosemary Akunna
Food systems hero: Rabi Ali
Abuja, Nigeria
“Masa, a traditional Nigerian rice dish, has become a unifying force in a country with over 250 ethnic groups. Its widespread popularity transcends regional and cultural differences, making it a common thread that weaves together the lives of Nigerians from diverse backgrounds. Masa is more than just a food staple; its preparation and consumption involve communal efforts, fostering social bonding and a sense of belonging. As an affordable and vital food source, masa provides sustenance and comfort to the poor masses. It also plays a significant role in Nigerian cultural heritage, featuring in traditional ceremonies and celebrations. Masa represents resourcefulness, creativity and the ability to create something nourishing from simple ingredients, reflecting Nigerian values. Through masa, Nigerians find common ground, connecting them to their collective history, shared humanity and cultural identity.”
Masa, a meal for the masses, is an unsung hero in our society. It provides nourishment and unity through traditional foods. It symbolizes community, culture and love. In a world that often celebrates flashy heroes, masa reminds us that true heroism lies in quiet dedication and service. It’s humble spirit and selfless contribution to our lives makes it a true unsung hero.
The Fresh Food Advocate - Benjamin Nsubuga
Food systems hero: Joselyn Kyakimu
Kampala, Uganda
Entry description: At the heart of the Kampala, a remarkable female fresh food advocate, Joselyn Kyakimu, stands as a beacon of hope. Amidst the urban environment, where fresh produce is scarce, she has become a lifeline for her community. With a rise in processed and junk food supply in towns, her dedication lies in bringing garden food to forgotten patches of land, transforming them into oases of nourishment. Her efforts go beyond just food as she fosters community bonds through her character as well as promoting food sustainability. As one of the very few suppliers of fresh, garden-grown produce in Kikaya B, she not only feeds the bodies of her neighbors but also nurtures their spirits, proving that one person can indeed make a profound difference.
“In a city where the built environment reigns, I see the power of healthy living. For it’s not only just about feeding the human body but also feeding hope. Every garden we grow and reap from is a huge step toward reclaiming our connection to the earth.” – Joselyn Kyakimu
The Heartbeat of Port Louis Market - Ritikesh Ragudu
Food systems hero: Ashok
Poudre Dor Hamlet, Mauritius
Entry description: In the bustling City Market of Port Louis, Mauritius, one man embodies tradition and community. For decades, he has provided fresh, locally sourced vegetables with dedication, starting before dawn to select the best produce. More than a vendor, he is a keeper of the island’s agricultural heritage. Each basket of greens he offers tells the story of Mauritius’s rich soil and traditions. To those who know him, he is a hero — a humble figure who connects the land with their tables. His quiet strength and love for his craft make him a true champion of Port Louis.
“The earth gives us everything; it is our duty to honor it with care and pass its gifts to the people.” – Ashok
With the Taste of Golden Sand - Meryem Maaziz
Food systems hero: Chouchou Alandy
Oued Souf Algeria , Algeria
Entry description: In the serene beauty of the Algerian desert, I captured a man who brings the essence of street food to this vast and stunning landscape. He is a master of Mella Sahrawiya, an ancient art of cooking stuffed bread on glowing embers nestled in the sands. His hands, shaped by the desert’s gentle yet resilient nature, craft each loaf with care, reflecting the deep traditions of his Saharan heritage. After serving this simple yet soulful bread, he brews a fragrant cup of tea, inviting those who wander by to experience the warmth of desert hospitality. In this remote and beautiful setting, he keeps the spirit of street food alive, connecting people through the timeless flavours of the Sahara.
“In the desert’s quiet, I craft bread from the sands, preserving a legacy that nourishes both body and soul. My work isn’t just food; it brings people together, forging connections that sustain our shared humanity.” – Chouchou Alandy
Working Women of Nalubale - Aida Namukose
Food systems hero: Agnes Nankumbi
Nairobi, Kenya
Entry description: Agnes is a 21-year-old woman who sells fish by the lakeside village of Nalubale. She has been in this work from the age of 16 and is able to support herself and her child through this. She is a food systems hero as she works sustainably on a very small scale — competing with big fishing companies but still able to play her part in bringing food to the community and supporting herself.
“I have been selling fish for a long time and though some people see it as dirty and poor work, it has helped me feed my family, and I am also bringing fresh, healthy food to my community everyday.” – Agnes Nankumbi