East African Foods (EAF), a Tanzanian-founded company with regional ambitions, is leveraging technology to scale up its operations and expand into new markets. The Dar es Salaam-based firm, which sources produce from smallholder farmers in Tanzania and sells to retailers, is making significant strides in the agri-tech space.
EAF’s network is vast, spanning over 10,000 farmers and more than 7,000 small retailers. The company handles a staggering 14,500 banana crates each week, a testament to its significant role in the region’s food supply chain. This year, EAF opened its first operation outside of Tanzania in Nairobi, Kenya, where it sells its rice and potato brands, Onja rice and Potato King, respectively.
The company’s growth is largely attributed to its adoption of technology. EAF’s founder, Elia Timotheo, emphasizes that technology has been instrumental in scaling up operations. The firm has developed the EAF App, designed to streamline the management of farmers, plots, harvests, and quality control. This app offers end-to-end functionality, ensuring efficient oversight and optimization of every stage of the farming process.
In April, EAF launched a new mobile app, SokoChap, to support wholesalers, retailers, and delivery teams. This app allows customers to place orders online and receive real-time updates, marking a significant shift from the traditional method of telephone orders. The SokoChap app is a clear indication of EAF’s commitment to bringing efficiency and innovation closer to its partners.
To support farmers, EAF has implemented a farmer management system that tracks crucial information about the farmers they source from. This includes the size of the land, whether it is leased or owned, and the farming practices employed. EAF is also training farmers in climate-smart agriculture and good agricultural practices, further enhancing their productivity and sustainability.
Moreover, EAF is introducing farmers to digital financial systems for payments, such as banks and mobile money transfers. This initiative not only ensures the safety of their money but also aids in better financial management. The implications of EAF’s technological advancements are far-reaching. By streamlining and optimizing the supply chain, EAF is making it easier for consumers to access high-quality produce while supporting local farmers and the local economy.
The company’s use of technology is not only transforming its operations but also empowering farmers and enhancing their livelihoods. As EAF continues to grow and expand, its innovative use of technology serves as a model for other agri-tech companies in the region.
