It is estimated that up to 50% of food produced in Nigeria goes to waste due to poor storage, transportation, and market access. For team seven from Nigeria, the goal was to tackle this issue head-on by building a technology-driven solution that combines both digital and human elements.
Their product, AgriTrack, is a platform that connects smallholder farmers with a network of trained field agents who provide on-the-ground support and guidance throughout the post-harvest process. The platform also includes a digital tracking system that monitors the condition of the produce from farm to market, ensuring that it reaches its destination in optimal condition.
During the hackathon, the team conducted interviews with farmers, market vendors, and agricultural experts to better understand the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Nigeria. They learned that many farmers lack access to proper storage facilities, transportation options, and market information, leading to significant losses.
To address these challenges, the team designed AgriTrack to provide real-time insights and recommendations to farmers based on data collected by field agents. The platform also includes a marketplace feature that connects farmers directly with buyers, reducing the reliance on middlemen and ensuring fair prices for their produce.
While the team’s solution was well-received at the hackathon, they acknowledged that there is still work to be done to refine the platform and test it in real-world conditions. They plan to continue developing AgriTrack with a focus on scalability and sustainability, aiming to secure partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and agribusinesses to support the rollout of the platform across Nigeria.
Overall, the hackathon hosted by Innovate Africa Fund showcased the innovative potential of African entrepreneurs in addressing some of the continent’s most pressing challenges. By combining technology, human-centered design, and a deep understanding of local contexts, these teams are paving the way for sustainable solutions that have the potential to transform industries and improve the lives of millions across Africa. Smallholder farmers face significant challenges when it comes to crop losses, as it can impact their ability to cultivate their farms in the next season or meet financial obligations at home. Recognizing this issue, a team of innovators took on the challenge at a recent hackathon, with a focus on addressing the needs of farmers in Oyo State.
The team’s research revealed that many farmers in the region had limited digital literacy, but their family members often had access to smartphones. This led to the development of a lightweight, offline-compatible mobile app that supports local languages and voice communication. In addition, the team decided to work with field agents to onboard farmers and provide real-time support, drawing inspiration from the successful model used by agritech startup Winich Farms.
The app goes beyond just providing information, it also addresses pricing and trust issues. A machine learning algorithm predicts fair market prices for crops, while an escrow system ensures secure transactions for both farmers and buyers. Although the app is still in the testing phase, initial feedback from farmers in Oyo State has been positive. Building trust and encouraging adoption will be key challenges moving forward.
Overall, this innovative solution has the potential to make a real impact on smallholder farmers in Nigeria, offering them the tools and support they need to improve their livelihoods and protect their crops from losses. By leveraging technology and local partnerships, the team is paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector in the region.
