Building on its success in Zambia, Zambian agri-tech firm eMsika is looking to expand regionally. Gilbert Mwale and Elton Chirwa founded the unique firm in 2016, and it has carved a niche in the agriculture industry by offering a digital platform particularly tailored for poultry producers. Their user-friendly FarmHouse app functions as a one-stop shop for poultry farmers, many of whom are smallholders operating in cities.
Prior to eMsika’s introduction, these farmers frequently lacked access to user-friendly digital solutions tailored to their individual needs. Existing agricultural technology solutions were often general, and unable to address the specific issues encountered by small-scale poultry growers. Recognizing this gap, eMsika’s FarmHouse app comes in to provide a full solution that goes beyond simply enabling transactions.
Poultry growers may use the FarmHouse app to effortlessly acquire vital supplies such as day-old chicks, feed, and immunizations. But eMsika’s dedication to farmer prosperity goes beyond the digital arena. They recognize the importance of practical on-farm help and offer vital technical guidance on farm visits. This individualized approach provides farmers with the knowledge and resources they need to handle the difficulties of chicken farming.
The FarmHouse app’s usefulness is not limited to purchases and assistance. Recognizing the importance of farmer education and networking, eMsika has built these features within the platform. Farmers may access educational training modules to help them improve their poultry farming skills and expertise. Additionally, the app encourages a feeling of community by allowing farmers to interact and share their experiences.
eMsika’s commitment to ongoing improvement is reflected in the creation of the Farmhouse Plus program, a farmer membership project. This program provides extra perks and demonstrates eMsika’s dedication to helping its users. To expand their service offerings, eMsika opened a real store, giving farmers an easy way to get necessary products. To assure high-quality goods, eMsika formed strategic alliances with worldwide suppliers, cementing their status as a dependable source for poultry farming needs.
The FarmHouse app has received nearly 2,000 downloads. This translates to a user base that has profited from the eMsika methodology. The firm has had a significant influence on the Zambian poultry farming sector by giving online training to 8,000 farmers. Encouraged by this accomplishment and the popularity of the FarmHouse app’s Poultry Manager function, eMsika is starting a bold expansion plan. Their focus is on Tanzania, Nigeria, Egypt, and Zimbabwe, and they are aggressively seeking partnerships to ensure a seamless introduction into these new markets.
eMsika’s financial trajectory demonstrates a smart strategy. Their funding consists of stock investments, grants, and strategic collaborations. Since its start, the firm has raised $150,000, and they are now raising another $50,000. These monies will be judiciously dedicated to marketing campaigns designed to expand their presence in new areas. Technological developments are also a goal, keeping the FarmHouse app at the cutting edge of innovation. Finally, a portion of the monies will be utilized to hire a crucial team member, bolstering their operational capabilities.
eMsika’s monetization approach is two-pronged. They make money from subscription fees related to their on-farm technical support services. In addition, the FarmHouse app facilitates the selling of agricultural goods, which generates revenue. While user base growth remains a primary objective, eMsika is deliberately diversifying income streams to ensure long-term financial stability.
In conclusion, eMsika’s focus on innovation and its commitment to farmer success has positioned it as a frontrunner in Zambia’s agri-tech space. Their well-rounded approach, encompassing a user-friendly digital platform, valuable on-farm support, and a commitment to farmer education, positions them for continued growth and a successful expansion into new markets.
