October 18, 2023
Our Uka Eje Makes Africa's Business Elite 40 Under 40 List
In the heart of Africa's agricultural landscape, a quiet revolution is taking root, led by a young visionary named Uka Eje and his transformative venture, ThriveAgric. In just five years, Uka, who stands as a shining example of the power of youth and innovation, has propelled ThriveAgric to the forefront of agricultural empowerment, redefining the possibilities for smallholder farmers across the continent.
Uka's journey began in Benue State, Nigeria, where he grew up immersed in the challenges and potentials of rural farming communities. Witnessing firsthand the obstacles faced by smallholder farmers—lack of access to quality inputs, financing, and reliable markets—ignited a spark within him. Determined to bridge these gaps and unleash the untapped potential of African agriculture, he co-founded ThriveAgric in 2018 with Ayodeji Arikawe, armed with a mission to empower farmers through technology and finance.
ThriveAgric's impact has been nothing short of remarkable. Under Uka and Ayo's leadership, we have:
- Traded over 1.5 million metric tonnes of grains, demonstrating its significant contribution to food security.
- Reached over 2900+ communities and 514,000 farmers across Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya, empowering them with the tools and resources to thrive.
- Tripled the productivity of these farmers and doubled their income, leading to tangible economic transformation in their communities.
- Secured over $150 million in funding, a testament to the confidence of investors in ThriveAgric's vision and impact.
Key to ThriveAgric's success is our innovative Agricultural Operating System (AOS), a technology platform that acts as a bridge between farmers and vital resources. Through the AOS, farmers gain access to:
- Financial services, including loans and input financing, breaking down traditional barriers to capital.
- Data-driven insights and best practices, empowering them to make informed decisions and optimize their yields.
- Premium local and global markets, ensuring fair prices and a secure outlet for their produce.
ThriveAgric's commitment to sustainability also shines through its emphasis on:
- Soil testing and analysis, promoting responsible land management and resource conservation.
- Specialized fertilizer blends, tailored to the specific needs of different crops and regions, ensuring optimal agricultural practices.
Uka's vision for the future is as bold as it is inspiring. ThriveAgric has set its sights on reaching 10 million farmers across Africa by 2027, fostering a network of thriving communities woven together by technology and financial empowerment. This ambition extends to a profound commitment to gender equality, with a goal of reaching 40% female farmers within this network.
Our frontman, Uka Eje's story is a powerful testament to the transformative potential of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering determination. As ThriveAgric continues to cultivate progress, it stands as a beacon of hope for a future where African agriculture not only meets the demands of food security but also thrives as a cornerstone of economic prosperity and social empowerment. In a world where challenges often seem insurmountable, Uka Eje and ThriveAgric offer a compelling reminder that with vision, ingenuity, and a commitment to collective progress, the possibilities for a brighter future are boundless.
Uka’s story is a story of innovation, empowerment, and visionary leadership. And making the list of Africa’s 40 Under 40 is no surprise to us. Hence, all of us at ThriveAgric wish Uka a big Congratulations for making BusinessElite’sAfrica 40 Under 40 list. Catch up on his interview with BusinessEliteAfrica here
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