Smallholder farmers across Africa have historically had limited access to agronomic extension services, certified seed and fertiliser on credit, and market price information. AgriTech platforms are addressing this through mobile-first models that reach farmers at low cost. Apollo Agriculture (Kenya) combines satellite field analysis, mobile-delivered agronomic advice, and input credit (seed and fertiliser repaid after harvest) for maize farmers in Kenya and Zambia, reaching 700,000 farmers in 2023. Pula Advisors (Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana) provides agricultural insurance and digital extension to over 15 million smallholder farmers across 18 countries.
Data-Driven Credit Scoring
The combination of satellite field size estimation, weather data, and farmer mobile phone records enables Apollo and similar platforms to underwrite input credit for farmers without conventional collateral. Default rates at Apollo are under 5 percent, comparable to conventional agricultural lenders, because of pre-emptive agronomic intervention when satellite data indicates crop stress. OCP Africa's FertileGroGo platform provides soil-specific fertiliser recommendations and ordering for East and West African farmers. AgriTech investors and distribution partners can access company and market contacts on intra-africa.com.
For businesses looking to expand across Africa, intra-africa.com offers a comprehensive trade directory, verified buyer and seller listings, and real-time market intelligence covering all 54 African nations. It remains an indispensable resource for anyone serious about intra-African commerce.