The GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition is a prestigious platform that shines a light on innovative young agripreneurs who are driving the transformation of Africa’s food systems. Among the Top 12 finalists from the southern region of Africa, two standout businesses are making significant strides in addressing food security, sustainability, and economic development. In this blog post, we will delve into the inspiring journeys of these finalists, starting with AB Farms.
AB Farms: Revolutionizing Agriculture with Hydroponic Systems
Founded in 2017 by two mechanical engineers, AB Farms is an Agri-Tech company that has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable farming solutions. Specializing in the design, manufacturing, and installation of turnkey hydroponic systems, AB Farms leverages its patented vertical hydroponic pipe system to address food security challenges in Africa. Their mission is to make farming accessible and efficient in unconventional environments, attract young people to the agricultural sector, and ensure that farming remains a viable career path for future generations.
Vertical farming of salad greens in a polytunnel.
The Business
Hydroponics, a soilless farming technique, is at the core of AB Farms’ operations. This method allows crops to be grown in a nutrient-rich solution rather than soil, using significantly less land, water, and fertilizer. AB Farms has taken this technology a step further with their proprietary system, which enables crops to be irrigated periodically rather than continuously, a unique feature that distinguishes them from other hydroponic systems on the market. This innovation ensures that crops maintain their quality even during power or water outages, making it a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for farmers, particularly those in off-grid areas.
The vertical design of AB Farms’ system also maximizes planting density, allowing farmers to grow a variety of leafy greens and herbs in smaller spaces. The crops produced include lettuce, Swiss chard, strawberries, basil, thyme, parsley, mint, and more, offering a diverse selection that caters to different market needs.
Maximising plant density in a greenhouse.
Their Impact
Leafy green production in South Africa has been gaining momentum, driven by both traditional and modern farming practices. Traditional leafy vegetables like amaranthus, kale, and nightshade are particularly valued for their nutritional benefits and resilience in diverse conditions, including low water availability. These crops, often grown in rural areas, are essential for food security and nutrition, especially in regions with limited resources. Research is ongoing to optimize cultivation practices, focusing on water efficiency and fertilizer use, which are crucial in the country’s water-scarce environment.
AB Farms is committed to improving rural livelihoods by introducing hydroponic systems to villages, peri-urban, and urban areas. By providing local communities with the tools and knowledge to grow their own produce, AB Farms empowers individuals, reduces reliance on imported goods, and stimulates local economies. The company’s training programs play a crucial role in transferring skills and fostering entrepreneurship, particularly among the youth. With the average age of a farmer in South Africa being 62, AB Farms’ modern approach to farming is attracting younger generations, ensuring the continuity and evolution of the agricultural sector.
The hydroponic systems developed by AB Farms enable the local production of high-value crops, ensuring that communities have access to fresh and nutritious produce. This reduces dependence on long supply chains, which often result in higher costs and lower-quality food. By producing food locally, AB Farms helps communities reduce their carbon footprint, minimize food wastage, and improve dietary diversity, particularly in underserved areas where fresh produce is scarce.
Easy to check and maintain plants and catch any issues before they lead to crop loss.
AB Farms’ hydroponic systems are a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. Traditional agriculture often requires the clearing of forests and natural habitats, leading to deforestation and biodiversity loss. By reducing the need for arable land, AB Farms’ technology helps preserve these vital ecosystems. Moreover, the efficient use of water and nutrients makes hydroponics an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional farming methods, especially in water-scarce regions.
Mogale Maleke of AB Farms.
The environmental benefits of AB Farms’ technology extend to the conservation of natural resources. By minimizing the use of pesticides and fertilizers, the company reduces the risk of water pollution and protects aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, AB Farms integrates renewable energy sources like solar power into their systems, further reducing the carbon footprint associated with food production.
Sakafo Madagascar: Innovating Food Systems for a Sustainable Future
Marketing their unique produce in major retailers.
In the vibrant southern region of Africa, where the richness of biodiversity meets the challenges of food security, Sakafo Madagascar stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Founded by the visionary Riantsoa Mialinarindra, this agripreneurial enterprise is not just another food processing company—it’s a movement towards a more equitable, sustainable, and nutritious food system.
Small-scale farming in Madagascar plays a vital role in the country’s agriculture, yet faces significant challenges. Most Malagasy farmers rely on subsistence farming, cultivating small plots with limited access to modern techniques and resources. Production is often hampered by outdated methods, poor infrastructure, and limited access to markets. Distribution of goods is also constrained by inadequate transportation networks, which affects the availability and freshness of produce. Efforts to improve productivity and distribution focus on enhancing agricultural practices, supporting cooperatives, and improving access to both local and international markets.
The Business
A pop-up shop for their main product.
Sakafo Madagascar is a dynamic enterprise that processes fruits and vegetables grown by small-scale farmers into traceable, nutritious food products. But what sets this company apart is its holistic ecosystem that supports sustainable farming practices, reduces post-harvest loss, and promotes a circular economy. Sakafo Madagascar is deeply committed to transforming raw materials into exceptional products while adhering to the strictest health and environmental standards. Riantsoa’s vision extends beyond mere food processing. Sakafo Madagascar is a hub of innovation where fair trade, responsible consumption, and rural development are not just buzzwords but the foundation of every action taken. The company actively collaborates with cooperatives and small local producers to enhance the quality and productivity of fruits and vegetables harvested, ensuring that the benefits of their success are shared with the community.
Sakafo Madagascar specializes in creating high-quality food products that are both nutritious and traceable. The focus on traceability is crucial, as it allows consumers to know exactly where their food comes from and the journey it has taken from farm to table. The company’s commitment to quality is matched by its dedication to sustainability.
Their Impact
COVID did not slow the team down but aided their digital and technological growth.
By processing locally sourced raw materials, Sakafo Madagascar reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation and supports local economies. The products not only nourish the body but also contribute to a healthier planet. In addition, Sakafo Madagascar is pioneering clean energy initiatives and composting programs that further enhance their sustainability credentials. These initiatives not only reduce the environmental impact of their operations but also create additional value streams, turning waste into resources.
At the heart of Sakafo Madagascar’s mission is a deep commitment to social impact. The company recognizes that its success is inextricably linked to the well-being of the farmers, producers, and communities they work with. By promoting fair trade practices and responsible consumption, Sakafo Madagascar ensures that its partners receive fair compensation for their hard work and that consumers can trust the integrity of the products they purchase. The company is also dedicated to rural development, providing training and support to small-scale farmers to improve their farming practices and increase their productivity. This empowerment of local communities not only enhances livelihoods but also strengthens the overall resilience of the food system in Madagascar.
The food system is many parts, all equally important, working together.
By minimizing the use of chemical inputs and promoting organic farming methods, Sakafo Madagascar contributes to the conservation of soil and water resources, ensuring that future generations can continue to thrive on this land.
Conclusion
Both of these companies from Southern Africa have vastly different products and services but their end goals remain the same: better food security and improved nutrition for all.
AB Farms is more than just a business; it’s a catalyst for change in Africa’s agricultural landscape. Through innovative hydroponic systems, AB Farms is addressing critical issues such as food security, climate change, and youth unemployment. Their commitment to sustainability and social impact positions them as a leading force in the agripreneurship sector, and their journey in the GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition is one to watch closely.
Riantsoa Mialinarindra and Sakafo Madagascar are leading the way in transforming the food systems of Africa, demonstrating that it is possible to create nutritious, sustainable, and ethically produced food products that benefit both people and the planet. By embracing innovation, promoting fair trade, and committing to environmental stewardship, Sakafo Madagascar is setting a new standard for the food industry in Madagascar and beyond.
Stay tuned as we continue to explore the inspiring stories of the other finalists from all around Africa. All of these #GoGettazs are making a significant impact on the continent’s food systems, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Follow @GoGettazAfrica on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube) and participate in their journey towards transforming agriculture in Africa.
GoGettaz Co-Founders:
Yara International: https://www.yara.com/
Econet: https://www.econetafrica.com/
GoGettaz Partners:
Africa Food Systems Forum: https://agrf.org/
Alliance for a Green Revolution Africa: https://agra.org/
Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions: http://www.sacau.org/
SNV Netherlands Development Organisation https://www.snv.org/
U.S. Agency for International Development: https://www.usaid.gov/
