Many African smallholders face challenges transporting their crops to urban markets. Tech entrepreneurs are increasingly stepping up to address this issue.

Kilimo Fresh is a digital solution developed by a Tanzanian startup that enables consumers to buy fresh produce online while making it easier for farmers to sell their products. Based in Dar es Salaam, the startup was founded in 2018 by Baraka Chijenga.

To use the platform, customers must access the e-commerce website through a web browser. They can browse a wide range of fresh products, including grains, fruits, milk, and various types of flour. While initial purchases can be made without an account, registration is required to complete transactions.

Kilimo Fresh serves as an intermediary between farmers and consumers. "[...]Through its efficient distribution model, the company sources fresh produce directly from smallholder farmers, adds value through cleaning, sorting, and packaging, then delivers it to its customers' locations," the startup explains.

Beyond individual consumers, Kilimo Fresh also supplies small retailers daily. The startup launched this solution to reach a broader customer base and help combat food waste. Kilimo Fresh “offers farmers stable prices (20% higher than those offered by middlemen), direct market access for their crops, and reduced food waste through the use of cold chain and cold storage facilities.”

In October, Kilimo Fresh was selected to participate in Angel Fair Africa, a major tech business showcase. Earlier in the year, the company received the Digital Innovation in Agriculture Award at the Tanzania Digital Awards.

Adoni Conrad Quenum