Challenges

Agriculture is one of the key economic activities in Zambia and responsible for employing approximately 60% of the adult population. However, the sector faces challenges related to food loss and lack of access to markets.  

In Zambia, post-harvest losses for fruits and vegetables are upwards of 60%. This is mainly due to the absence of proper storage facilities, especially an unbroken cold chain.  

Farmers also lack access to markets, having to travel long distances to established markets. If prices are unfavorable, they are either forced to take the offered price, return home with the goods, or dump the goods onsite. This results in significant revenue losses for the farmers and has a direct impact on their livelihood status making them vulnerable to poverty at the household level. 

Solutions

FreshSource is a pioneering business-to-business agri-supply chain platform that leverages data and technology to transform Egypt’s food industry. By offering a digital platform for sourcing high-quality fresh produce, the innovator aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and sustainability while empowering farmers and businesses to thrive. Through direct collaboration with producers, inventory management, and optimized logistics, FreshSource achieves a food loss rate of 2%, significantly lower than the national average of 30%. This not only reduces waste, but also positively impacts rural communities by empowering farmers and fostering sustainable economic growth.