Tanzania - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

JEMBEBORA is a digital platform empowering men, women, youth, and students to actively engage in agriculture by offering educational resources, market access, mentorship, and funding opportunities, promoting sustainable and profitable farming.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Jembe Bora is an online platform aimed at empowering university students and youths in agriculture. It provides comprehensive resources and support to foster active participation in farming. Through our online portal, students access e-learning courses, webinars, and a wealth of agricultural information. We offer step-by-step guides and mentorship programs to help beginners start their agricultural ventures confidently. Our platform integrates market research insights, personalized crop recommendations, 3D of the farm and all costs, connections to suppliers and buyers via an online marketplace. We facilitate access to capital through grants, loans, and crowdfunding opportunities, bridging the financial gap for young farmers. Jembe Bora leverages digitization to offer interactive tools, virtual farm tours, and mobile accessibility, ensuring inclusivity and ease of use. Our mission includes promoting sustainable farming practices, boosting local economies, and reducing urban migration.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

JEMBEBORA aims to solve the main problems preventing individuals, particularly men, women, youth, and university students, from engaging in agriculture. These issues include: - Lack of information about modern agricultural practices. The information available is scattered on multiple government and private websites - Uncertainty on how to start. - Confusion about what to farm based on factors like climate and market demand. - Challenges in accessing markets to sell their products. - Difficulties in obtaining capital for starting and maintaining agricultural activities. jEMBEBORA addresses these problems by offering comprehensive educational resources, interactive guidance tools, market research reports, an online marketplace to connect farmers with buyers, mentorship programs, community engagement platforms, and access to funding opportunities, making agriculture more accessible, sustainable, and profitable.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

1. Comprehensive Support: Students receive tailored guidance from crop selection to market access, supported by educational resources, mentorship, and practical farm visits. 2. Financial Access: Facilitates access to capital through loans and crowdfunding, enabling students to start farming ventures without upfront investment barriers. 3. Technological Integration: Utilizes 3D farm planning, digital payment systems, and online marketplaces to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and ensure transparency in agricultural activities. 4. Market Opportunities: Connects students and youths with reliable suppliers and buyers, expanding their market reach and ensuring fair transactions. 5.Operational Efficiency: Streamlines farm management processes such as irrigation system installation, crop planning, and logistics, optimizing efficiency and productivity in agricultural operations. 6. Networking: Provides a platform for students to connect with peers, experienced farmers

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Jembe Bora aims to serve the following beneficiaries: 1. University Students: Empowering them with agricultural knowledge, skills, and resources to start farming ventures. We will later on target youths in general. The platform targets both individuals and groups seeking to start farming ventures 2. Seed Sellers: Providing a platform to connect with students and facilitate seed sales. 3. Fertilizer Sellers: Offering market access for fertilizer products through our online marketplace. 4. Banks: Facilitating student access to loans and financial services for agricultural investments. 5. Irrigation Equipment Sellers and Installers: Connecting them with students needing irrigation systems and installation services. 6. Retailers: Providing access to agriculture products sourced from students and other suppliers through our online store.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-03-07

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

3

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Agness Jonathan - is an aquatic Scientist, who brings a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, her background is completed with proven leadership abilities and a keen interest in addressing contemporary environmental challenges with valuable experience to contribute to sustainable practices and conservation efforts. Francis David - A software engineer, online content creator and photographer,. worked with Airtel company and well knowledgable in payment systems on websites. Samwel Kimaro - Expertise in programming and social media management. As a content creator, he founded Mentors of Growth, dedicated to empowering youth to pursue and achieve their dreams. Through this platform, Samwel inspires young people to believe in their potential and provides actionable strategies for personal and professional growth. Emmanuel Kimaro: System Infrastructure Professional adept at optimizing IT systems for reliability, security, and operational efficiency.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Agriculture

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Jembe Bora empowers university students in Tanzania to overcome poverty through agricultural entrepreneurship. By facilitating access to capital, market opportunities, and agricultural education, it enables students to generate sustainable income. Additionally, seed and fertilizer suppliers benefit from increased sales through the platform, while retailers gain access to quality agricultural products. This holistic approach supports poverty alleviation by fostering economic empowerment among youth and promoting inclusive economic growth in rural communities. By integrating with financial institutions, Jembe Bora also facilitates access to loans and grants, further supporting students in starting their farming ventures.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to achieving zero hunger by promoting sustainable agriculture among Tanzanian university students and youths. Through comprehensive education on modern farming techniques and crop selection based on market demand, the platform enhances agricultural productivity. This not only ensures efficient food production but also improves food security and nutrition in rural areas. By empowering students to grow diverse crops and connect with local markets, Jembe Bora reduces food waste and strengthens local food systems. Overall, it supports SDG 2 by fostering resilient agricultural practices that contribute to ending hunger and promoting sustainable food production.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 3 by promoting agricultural practices that enhance community health and well-being. Through education and training, the platform encourages sustainable farming methods that minimize chemical use and prioritize soil health. This approach ensures safer food production, reducing health risks associated with chemical residues in crops. Additionally, by improving access to nutritious food through local markets, Jembe Bora supports better dietary choices and overall health outcomes in Tanzanian communities. Moreover, the platform's emphasis on mentorship and community engagement empowers mental well-being and resilience among youth involved in agriculture, aligning with SDG 3's aim to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Jembe Bora advances Goal 4 by providing quality education in agriculture to Tanzanian university students and youths. Through online courses, webinars, and practical training, the platform equips youths with essential skills in modern farming techniques and sustainable agriculture. By collaborating with agricultural experts and institutions like TARI (Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute), Jembe Bora ensures students receive up-to-date knowledge and practical insights. This education empowers students to pursue careers in agriculture, addressing the skills gap in the sector and contributing to sustainable development. Moreover, by promoting digital literacy and entrepreneurship skills, Jembe Bora enhances educational outcomes and empowers youth to achieve their academic and career goals, thereby supporting SDG 4's objective to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Jembe Bora promotes gender equality by encouraging the active participation of both young men and women, including university students and youths, in agriculture. Through its educational programs and mentorship initiatives, the platform empowers female university students and young women to engage in agricultural entrepreneurship on an equal footing with their male counterparts. By providing resources and support tailored to address gender-specific barriers in agriculture, such as access to land and financial resources, Jembe Bora fosters an inclusive environment where youths can thrive as agricultural entrepreneurs. Additionally, the platform advocates for gender-sensitive policies and practices within the agricultural sector, contributing to greater gender equality and women's empowerment in Tanzania.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 6 by promoting sustainable water management practices through its adoption of drip irrigation for horticulture crops. By using drip irrigation, the platform minimizes water wastage and pollution, ensuring efficient water use in agriculture. This approach supports clean water access by preserving water resources and reducing contamination risks from agricultural runoff. Moreover, Jembe Bora educates youths on water conservation techniques, promoting awareness and responsible water usage behaviors in agricultural practices. Through these efforts, Jembe Bora supports SDG 6's objective to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 8 by promoting decent work and economic growth through agricultural entrepreneurship. The platform empowers youths, including university students, seed and fertilizer sellers, irrigation equipment installers, and retailers interested in agricultural products. By providing education, training, and access to resources like land, finance, and markets, Jembe Bora creates opportunities for these beneficiaries to participate in and benefit from sustainable agriculture. This initiative stimulates economic growth in rural areas by generating employment opportunities and boosting local entrepreneurship. Moreover, by supporting farmers with market access and fair trade practices, Jembe Bora enhances income levels and promotes inclusive economic growth. Ultimately, Jembe Bora's efforts align with SDG 8's objective to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 9 by fostering industry innovation and improving infrastructure in the agricultural sector. The platform integrates advanced technologies like drip irrigation and digital learning tools to enhance agricultural practices. By promoting innovation in farming techniques and infrastructure development, Jembe Bora increases productivity and efficiency in agricultural operations. This approach not only modernizes the agricultural sector but also facilitates knowledge transfer and skills development among youths and agricultural stakeholders. By strengthening infrastructure such as irrigation systems and market linkages, Jembe Bora supports sustainable economic growth and industrialization

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 10 by actively reducing inequalities within and among countries through inclusive agricultural development. The platform empowers marginalized groups, including youths, university students, and small-scale farmers, by providing equal access to resources and opportunities in agriculture. By offering education, training, and mentorship programs tailored to diverse needs, Jembe Bora promotes equitable participation and economic empowerment. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas, ensuring that all stakeholders benefit from sustainable agricultural practices. By promoting inclusive growth and supporting fair trade practices, Jembe Bora plays a crucial role in reducing disparities and promoting social inclusion.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 11 by promoting sustainable urban and rural development through its agricultural initiatives. By encouraging youths and university students to engage in agriculture, the platform supports the development of sustainable communities. Jembe Bora's emphasis on sustainable farming practices, such as drip irrigation and organic farming, reduces environmental impacts and promotes resource efficiency in both urban and rural settings. This approach contributes to creating resilient cities and communities by improving food security, reducing poverty, and enhancing environmental sustainability. By integrating agricultural activities with urban planning and community development, Jembe Bora helps build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities, in alignment with SDG 11's objective

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 12 by promoting responsible consumption and production patterns in agriculture through a circular economy approach. The platform encourages sustainable farming practices that minimize waste, conserve resources like water and soil, and promote biodiversity. By educating and empowering youths, university students, and farmers on sustainable agricultural techniques, Jembe Bora fosters practices that reduce environmental impact and ensure efficient use of resources. Through initiatives such as organic farming, integrated pest management, and efficient irrigation systems like drip irrigation, the platform supports sustainable food production while preserving ecosystems. By advocating for fair trade practices and promoting local consumption of agricultural products, Jembe Bora contributes to creating a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

5

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 13 by taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts through sustainable agriculture practices. The platform promotes climate-smart farming techniques such as drip irrigation, which reduces water usage, and organic farming, which minimizes chemical inputs and carbon emissions. By educating and empowering youths, university students, and farmers on these techniques, Jembe Bora enhances resilience to climate-related hazards like droughts and floods. The platform also advocates for reforestation and biodiversity conservation, further mitigating climate impacts. Through these efforts, Jembe Bora supports global climate action by fostering sustainable agricultural practices that contribute to climate resilience and environmental sustainability.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 14 by promoting sustainable agriculture practices that reduce pollution and preserve marine ecosystems. The platform emphasizes responsible land use and water management to prevent agricultural runoff from polluting oceans and coastal areas. By advocating for sustainable fishing practices and reducing the use of harmful chemicals in agriculture, Jembe Bora protects marine biodiversity and habitats. Through education and awareness campaigns, the platform encourages youths, university students, and farmers to adopt practices that contribute to marine conservation. By partnerships with environmental organizations and promoting policies that safeguard marine resources, Jembe Bora supports the sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. Ultimately, these efforts align with SDG 14's objective to conserve and sustainably use marine resources for sustainable development and a healthy marine ecosystem.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Jembe Bora contributes to Goal 16 by promoting inclusive and accountable agricultural practices that foster peaceful and resilient communities. The platform supports inclusive societies by empowering youths, university students, and farmers through education and economic opportunities in agriculture. By advocating for fair trade practices and providing access to agricultural resources and markets, Jembe Bora promotes social cohesion and economic stability. The platform also encourages transparent and accountable governance in agricultural management and promotes access to justice for all stakeholders involved. By fostering partnerships with local communities, governments, and civil society, Jembe Bora strengthens institutions at all levels to ensure peaceful and inclusive agricultural development.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

The platform collaborates with universities, agricultural experts, government agencies, and NGOs to leverage expertise and resources. By forging partnerships with financial institutions and investors, Jembe Bora facilitates access to funding and investment opportunities for youths and farmers. The platform also engages in global partnerships to promote knowledge sharing and capacity building in sustainable agriculture practices. Through these partnerships, Jembe Bora revitalizes the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, promoting inclusive and sustainable agricultural development that supports the achievement of all SDGs. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to building resilient communities and promoting sustainable development worldwide.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

4

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

2

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

Jembe Bora represents a pioneering initiative in Tanzania by combining agricultural education, mentorship, market access, and financial support into a single digital platform. It introduces a novel approach to empowering university students and young farmers, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in agriculture. This innovative model fosters a new generation of digitally-savvy agricultural entrepreneurs equipped to address current and future challenges in the sector. Compared to traditional agricultural extension services that often lack personalized guidance and direct market access, Jembe Bora improves upon these by leveraging digital technology and partnerships. It enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of agricultural education and support through interactive learning tools, real-time market data, and direct linkages between farmers and buyers. This improvement ensures more informed decision-making and better economic outcomes for participants.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

East Africa Food Ltd operates as a middleman in the agricultural supply chain, providing essential inputs like fertilizers and agricultural supplies to farmers. They facilitate a steady supply chain by purchasing crops from these farmers and distributing them to consumers. This model supports farmers by ensuring they have access to necessary inputs and a market for their produce, thereby stabilizing agricultural production and market access in the region. Jembe Bora goes beyond just supplying inputs and buying crops; it empowers farmers, particularly university students and youth, through comprehensive educational resources, mentorship programs, personalized crop recommendations, and access to capital through partnerships with banks and investors.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Not yet. Through JEMBE BORA, i will be able to inspire many women in universities and society that they can lead teams and be succesful in entrepreneurship. I will be part of the people that will mentor others not just in JEMBEBORA but also in Mentors of growth, which is a new organization established by my colleagues to coach and asist youths to reach their dreams and full potential as well as eradicate poverty by empowering them through knowledge.