Interviews - MarcoPolis

AquaRech, a leading aquaculture technology company founded in 2019 by Dave Okech, is revolutionizing fish farming in Kenya and beyond through innovative solutions tailored to address critical challenges faced by smallholder fish farmers. Leveraging a digital platform powered by mobile app technology, AquaRech bridges gaps in the aquaculture sector by providing farmers with high-quality fish feeds, credit financing, market access, and technical support. The AquaRech Fish Farmer app, accessible through both smartphone and USSD versions, empowers farmers with tools to monitor fish growth, track feed usage, and connect with a structured fish market through a unique buyback system. Additionally, the AquaRech Fish Deli app caters to consumers, offering doorstep delivery of air-fried Kenyan farmed tilapia, showcasing the company’s commitment to vertical integration.

AquaRech’s innovative solutions, such as the “buy now, pay later” financing model, help farmers access critical inputs like feed, enabling them to reduce production time from 16 months to 8 months and achieve a 40% increase in productivity. The integration of IoT water temperature sensors and real-time performance tracking further enhances precision farming. AquaRech not only supports sustainable fish farming practices but also aims to transition smallholder farmers into commercially profitable ventures. With over 6,000 farmers on its platform and a goal to scale to 10,000 by next year, the company is set to make a significant impact on the aquaculture industry in Kenya and expand its reach to East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.

Having raised nearly $3 million in funding through seed rounds, grants, and debt financing, AquaRech is poised for rapid growth. The company’s ambitious Series A funding round, targeting $8 to $10 million, will focus on scaling credit financing, enhancing production systems, and increasing market access for farmers. By addressing overfishing, declining fish stocks, and Africa’s growing protein demand, AquaRech positions itself as a key player in the sustainable transformation of aquaculture in sub-Saharan Africa. Through its digital solutions and strategic partnerships with organizations like Equity Bank, AquaRech is ensuring that fish farming is not just viable but profitable for thousands of smallholder farmers.

Uganda Interviews Uganda Telecom & IT

Inside Logix Technical Solutions: CEO Olukayode Osunsun Discusses Innovation in Security, Access Control, and Tech Integration in Uganda

November 13, 2024

Logix Technical Solutions, led by CEO Olukayode Osunsun, is transforming Uganda’s technology landscape with innovative security and IT systems integration. From advanced high-tech CCTV and biometric access control systems to turnkey technology solutions for top sectors like banking, oil, and hospitality, Osunsun’s vision emphasizes quality and client service in an increasingly competitive market. In this exclusive interview, he shares Logix’s journey, their approach to bridging technology gaps for businesses, and insights on overcoming challenges in Uganda’s tech industry. Discover how Logix Technical Solutions is pioneering reliable, high-end security solutions across East Africa.

Kenya Agriculture Kenya Interviews

Unlocking Africa’s Agricultural Potential: How Brazafric Group Leads in Regenerative Farming Insights from CEO Marcos Brandalise

November 12, 2024

This interview with Marcos Brandalise, the Founder and CEO of Brazafric Group of Companies (BGC), dives into the company’s impactful journey within Africa’s agriculture sector. With over three decades of experience in Kenya, Brandalise shares Brazafric’s mission to foster sustainable growth and development across Africa by providing specialized agricultural equipment, farm management, and consultancy services. Brazafric Group, with its Brazil-Africa synergy, leverages tropical agriculture expertise to introduce innovative regenerative agriculture practices, like conservation agriculture, aimed at promoting carbon sequestration, sustainable water management, and bio-based inputs. This approach supports soil regeneration and addresses Africa’s food security needs.

Brandalise discusses Brazafric’s holistic, environmentally friendly approach, which includes working with smallholder farmers to ensure their integration into larger agricultural initiatives. With ongoing farm development projects and partnerships with foreign investors and Italian equipment manufacturers, Brazafric aims to drive local production and reduce import dependency. Emphasizing industrialization and the importance of creating market opportunities in Africa, Brandalise highlights how Brazafric’s equipment distribution has captured significant market share across East and Central Africa. The interview sheds light on Brazafric’s commitment to Africa’s agricultural future, focusing on empowering African investors and supporting sustainable practices that protect local ecosystems.

Uganda Industry Uganda Interviews Uganda Telecom & IT

Inside Logix Technical Solutions: CEO Olukayode Osunsun Discusses Innovation in Security, Access Control, and Tech Integration

November 11, 2024

Logix Universal Solutions, led by CEO Olukayode Osunsun, is transforming Uganda’s technology landscape with innovative security and IT systems integration. From advanced high-tech CCTV and biometric access control systems to turnkey technology solutions for top sectors like banking, oil, and hospitality, Osunsun’s vision emphasizes quality and client service in an increasingly competitive market. In this exclusive interview, he shares Logix’s journey, their approach to bridging technology gaps for businesses, and insights on overcoming challenges in Uganda’s tech industry. Discover how Logix Technical Solutions is pioneering reliable, high-end security solutions across East Africa.

Mozambique Industry Mozambique Interviews Mozambique Services

Driving Sustainability: Parag Mehta on Silafrica’s Packaging Expansion in Mozambique

November 6, 2024

In this interview we speak with Mr. Parag Mehta, the visionary Business Manager for Silafrica’s operations in Mozambique. With a wealth of experience in driving growth across African markets, Mr. Mehta shares his inspiring journey from joining the company to leading a groundbreaking project that’s set to reshape Mozambique’s packaging industry. He discusses the strategic steps Silafrica has taken to secure a major contract with Coca-Cola, the innovative and eco-friendly practices they’re implementing, and the challenges of operating in Mozambique’s unique landscape. Passionate about ethical practices and sustainable growth, Mr. Mehta reveals how Silafrica is not only creating local jobs but also setting a new standard for responsible manufacturing. Join us as we delve into his goals, insights, and the exciting future of this transformative venture in Mozambique.

Kenya Financial Services Kenya Interviews Kenya Services

Financial Independence for Kenyans: Jonathan Asena’s Vision for Kimisitu Sacco

November 5, 2024

In this engaging interview, Jonathan Asena, the Marketing and Business Development Manager at Kimisitu Sacco, delves into the cooperative’s mission and milestones. With a history spanning nearly 40 years, Kimisitu Sacco stands out in Kenya’s financial landscape, now serving over 14,000 members across 70 countries. Known for its dedication to digital transformation, Kimisitu offers services that extend far beyond traditional savings and loans. Jonathan discusses the Sacco’s emphasis on affordable credit, financial literacy, and housing solutions, as well as its commitment to supporting Kenyans both locally and abroad. Discover how Kimisitu Sacco is empowering individuals and making financial independence accessible to a global Kenyan community.

Mozambique Industry Mozambique Interviews Mozambique Services

How Silafrica is Transforming Africa’s Packaging Industry – An Interview with CEO Gavin Dehning

October 29, 2024

In this exclusive interview with Gavin Dehning, Group CEO of Silafrica, we dive into the latest developments in Africa’s packaging industry, with a special focus on Silafrica’s sustainable packaging initiatives and regional expansion. Known for driving innovation in local manufacturing, Silafrica is not only reshaping the industry in East Africa but also advancing environmental sustainability through recycled materials and waste reduction strategies. With recent projects in Mozambique, including a major partnership with Coca-Cola, Silafrica aims to boost the local economy while setting new standards in sustainable business practices across the African continent. Join us as we explore the strategies behind Silafrica’s growth and their vision for a greener, more self-sustaining African market.

Uganda Construction & Real Estate Uganda Industry Uganda Interviews

Low-Carbon Construction in Uganda: A Conversation with Eco Concrete’s CEO Apollo Buregyeya

October 24, 2024

The Marcopolis team interviewed Apollo Buregyeya, the visionary civil engineer and CEO of Eco Concrete Limited, a Ugandan company pioneering sustainable solutions in the construction industry. Founded in 2016, Eco Concrete has made a significant impact by championing low-carbon materials and innovative building practices that cater to the unique needs of the African market. With a focus on local resources, green technologies, and affordability, Apollo shares how his company is revolutionizing Uganda’s infrastructure, developing climate-resilient rural homesteads, and leading the charge for eco-friendly construction across the region. Join us as we dive into his journey, challenges, and exciting innovations shaping the future of Uganda’s built environment.

Uganda Health & Pharma Uganda Interviews

How UMC Victoria Hospital is Shaping Uganda’s Healthcare Future: A Conversation with Dr. Chirag Kotecha

October 15, 2024

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Chirag Kotecha, a prominent figure in Uganda’s healthcare industry and a key leader at UMC Victoria Hospital. Over the last few years, the hospital has seen remarkable advancements, expanding its range of medical services and improving the accessibility of cutting-edge treatments. From installing state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to establishing specialized departments like ophthalmology, fertility treatments, and minimally invasive surgeries, UMC Victoria Hospital continues to shape the future of healthcare in the region.

In this interview, Dr. Kotecha will share insights into how these developments have helped reduce the need for medical tourism, attracted international talent, and met the growing demand for specialized care both within Uganda and neighboring countries. We’ll also explore the hospital’s expansion plans, the integration of new medical technologies, and the efforts to recruit and train healthcare professionals. Join us as we discuss these transformative efforts with Dr. Kotecha and learn more about the challenges and successes he has faced in leading one of Uganda’s premier medical institutions.

Uganda Industry Uganda Interviews Uganda Services

From Pandemic Pivot to Fintech Powerhouse: The Xente Journey with Allan Rwakatungu

October 13, 2024

In this insightful interview, we speak with Allan Rwakatungu, CEO of Xente, a fintech company that has been making waves in Uganda’s rapidly evolving digital payments landscape. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Xente pivoted its focus from consumer payments to business-to-business (B2B) transactions, a move that has significantly shaped its post-pandemic growth. In this discussion, Allan shares how the company has adapted to a more regulated fintech environment, the strategic partnerships they’ve formed, and the exciting product innovations that have emerged, particularly in cross-border payments. He also provides his perspective on the future of fintech in Uganda and East Africa, touching on the challenges and opportunities in the sector, as well as the promising role of emerging technologies like AI and regulated cryptocurrencies. Through this conversation, Allan highlights Xente’s ambition to become a key player in building a cohesive African fintech market, and his vision for the future of digital financial services on the continent.