We are dedicated to optimizing the farming process from inception to culmination, ensuring that farmers reap the full benefits of their labour. By engaging in the end-to-end management of the farming lifecycle – from cultivation to distribution – we aim to create a seamless and efficient system. This comprehensive approach underscores our commitment to empowering farmers and enhancing their economic well-being. Through strategic collaboration with local farmers, supermarkets, and consumers, we have successfully pioneered a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program. This collaborative initiative brings together various stakeholders in a shared commitment to sustainable and locally sourced agricultural practices, fostering a sense of community and support for our farmers.
Systemic Problems
Working with farmers means being directly exposed to the problems that they face such as:
Unsustainable agriculture practices: Industrial agriculture practices, including the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and monoculture cropping, have led to soil degradation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. There should be a promotion of sustainable agriculture practices, such as regenerative farming, agroforestry, and organic farming, to improve soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support biodiversity.
Food waste: Reducing food waste requires a coordinated effort among producers, retailers, consumers, and policymakers to improve supply chain management, and promote food recovery and redistribution. We recognize the need to start working on sustainable cold storage facilities and reducing the lead time between post-harvest and consumption through market linkages and value addition.
Climate change: The food system is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, primarily through agricultural practices and food transport. Organizations should be contributing to the adaptation to climate change will include capacity building to farmers on the cause and effect of climate change, promoting sustainable practices, and improving the value chain systems to reduce food waste.
In response to the significant hardships faced by smallholder farmers dealing with limited resources, exacerbated by climate change and economic shifts, we established the Itanya Africa Group. As a non-profit organization, our primary focus is to improve the lives of the farmers we work with by addressing not only economic challenges but also the broader impact of poverty, including gender-based violence, substance abuse, child labor, and socio-economic disparities. Acknowledging the pivotal role of women as primary providers, our approach aims to break the cycle of despair. We believe in a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond conventional methods, aiming to uplift communities by addressing the root causes of poverty and promoting sustainable growth for overall well-being.
Our Interventions
Sustainable Value Addition:
Bel’s Organic distinguishes itself by prioritizing sustainable value addition in agro-processing. The company not only produces high-quality and nutritious foods for the urban population but actively contributes to reducing post-harvest losses. This commitment aligns with environmental sustainability and responsible resource management.
Empowerment of Smallholder Farmers:
Bel’s Organic’s focus is on creating more value for smallholder farmers. Through their value addition processes, the company empowers local farmers, fostering economic resilience and sustainable agricultural practices. This unique approach goes beyond product quality, emphasising positive social impact.
Innovative Intersection of Agribusiness, Cold Storage & Fintech:
Bel’s Organic stands out for its innovative intersection of agribusiness, cold storage, and fintech solutions. By addressing challenges related to post-harvest losses and affordability through a comprehensive approach, the company seeks to demonstrate a commitment to finding holistic and forward-thinking solutions to systemic issues in the food industry.