From the fertile valleys of Benue State—the Food Basket of the Nation and a cradle of exceptional talent—rises another shining star on the global stage. Dr. Akpem Terese Shadrach, founder of Vet Konect, has clinched Second Place at the prestigious inaugural Innovate for Impact Challenge Finals hosted by the World Food Prize Foundation in Des Moines, Iowa, winning a $10,000 prize to propel his groundbreaking work.
This historic win isn’t a personal triumph, but a proud declaration from the Benue Valley—home to a legacy of top flying individuals whose vision and determination shape Nigeria’s and Africa’s future. Dr. Shadrach’s accomplishment reaffirms what Made In Benue stands for: resilience, innovation, and world-class excellence emerging from our rich soil.
The Innovate for Impact Challenge, a global competition with over 400 applicants from 65 countries, spotlighted young visionaries transforming global food and agricultural ecosystems. Dr. Shadrach’s Vet Konect, a digital platform linking livestock farmers and pet owners to verified veterinary professionals, is revolutionizing animal healthcare access across Africa.
By bridging critical gaps in rural communities, Vet Konect boosts productivity, strengthens food security, and uplifts countless livelihoods.“This victory goes beyond me—it’s a testament to African innovators who believe solutions lie within us,” Dr. Shadrach said. “Vet Konect shows how purposeful technology can transform animal health and food security across our continent.”As the first African finalist to reach the top three in this competition, Dr. Shadrach’s achievement is a defining moment for youth-led agricultural innovation across Africa. A Mandela Washington Fellow and multi-award-winning veterinarian, he has empowered over 40,000 Nigerian youths in digital innovation and entrepreneurship, embodying the spirit of inclusive growth.His journey from Benue Valley to the world stage in Iowa inspires every aspiring innovator and echoes the message of Made In Benue: that greatness is born here, and from here rises the power to impact the globe.
May this historic win ignite a fresh wave of groundbreaking ideas from Africa’s innovators as they create transformative solutions to secure a sustainable, food-secure future for all.
