The transformation of food systems has been a tremendous challenge for African entrepreneurs. Recently, the continent has seen rapid growth of startups and tech incubators.
But the question is, is Africa’s ag-tech development fulcrum sustainable? Well, here are some points that startups should avoid.
- The current model is not a good business proposition. It adds a lot of cost to the farmers.
- Food obtained through this model bring non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and heart attacks.
- It is an ecological disaster because it brings fertilizer run-off, the proliferating destruction of the Central African rain-forests, and greenhouse gas emissions.
So, how can Africa’s entrepreneurs replicate the food production models for a sustainable continent?
First, they need to keep things fragmented and short for the survival of both environment and the farmer.
Second, they should work to achieve incremental goals across wide pools, such as informal economy retailers, processors, and producers.
Third, they should have enough knowledge to strengthen their networks.
Fourth, startups should use most of their investment for the tech solutions that solve people’s problems.
Finally, they should remember that people don’t need profit only. They should bring the solutions that reflect the sense of solidarity ideologies and well-being.