Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Palm oil is a necessity across countless industries. Its presence cannot be replaced in a huge number of products all around the world. Hence, Uhrayz Hub Farms is a sustainable oil palm farming initiative for the production of oil palm in a large scale.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

This project aims to profer solution to the high demand of oil palm in the Nigerian market. The idea is to establish a sustainable palm tree farm, leveraging on cutting-edge practices to ensure environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability as well as job creation. The project aims; - Cultivate high-yielding palm trees for oil production, while prioritizing environmental conservation and community engagement. -Create a model farm that will showcase best practices in sustainable agriculture. Scope: - Land acquisition and preparation (1 acres in a rural area) - Planting and maintenance of palm trees (145-150 trees for a start ) - Irrigation system installation - Fertilizer application and pest management - Harvesting and processing infrastructure - Training and capacity building for local communities. Timeline: - Land preparation and planting: 6 months tentatively. - Growth and maintenance: 24 months approximately - Harvesting and processing: 36 months.

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

This project is aimed at solving a few problems for which one of it is the goal 15 of the UN SDG which aims to “protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss” it also would help close the margin of demand and supply as well as creating job opportunities to an extent which could be termed as decent work and economic growth. With the recent economic meltdown being experienced in my country Nigeria and companies shutting down and exiting the market, more people may be willing to take up indigenous jobs to sustain them and their families, hence we would be solving the first and second problems of no poverty and zero hunger, although we may not attain the zero hunger for all but it will be a start.

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

Palm oil is ubiquitous, found in many products across the globe which serves as a needed ingredient in most products’ formulations ranging from lipsticks to packaged cookies to detergent, and its presence cannot be replicated by any other similar vegetable oils. This crop yields two different types of oil – crude palm oil (locally known as red oil) from the fruit and palm kernel oil from the crushed kernel and under more purification may yield pure vegetable oil. This project will create a multi-faced employment both permanent and temporary ones. From that of the farmers, the harvesters and the processors of the oil palm. The use of modern farming equipment will help increase productivity and make work more efficient.

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

The large-scale production of oil palm is targeted at the following industries and uses; - Food industry: Palm oil is used as an ingredient in many food products, including bread, cereal, peanut butter, chocolate, and margarine. - Energy sector: Palm oil is used as a source of biodiesel fuel. - Industrial sector: Palm oil is used in personal products, such as shampoo, cosmetics, and cleaning products. - Pharmaceutical industry: Palm oil is used in skin-based pharmaceutical products. - Biodiesel production: Palm oil is used in transesterification of triglycerides with alcohol to produce biodiesel.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2021-12-01

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

1

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.)

Darla Iyke-Eleeh is a multi-talented Operations Personnel consistently rewarded for success in planning and operational improvements. Before this role, she was the Operations Manager of Medical International Support Services (MEDISS) where she oversaw training for the organization. She is experienced in policy development and staff management procedures which positively impacts overall morale and productivity. Darla is result oriented with proven success in leadership, operational excellence and organizational development with keen understanding of elements of various businesses. She is a seasoned trainer in both corporate and medical training, holds a master’s degree in healthcare management and is an effective and experienced Manager with valuable industry experience and a passion for management.

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?

b) Materials (agriculture, fishing, chemical products, construction materials, containers and packaging, metals and mining, paper and forest products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Oil palm production can contribute to the "No Poverty" goal (SDG 1) in several ways: - Employment opportunities: Oil palm plantations can create jobs for rural communities, helping to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods. - Income generation: Smallholder farmers can earn a steady income by selling oil palm products, improving their economic stability. - Economic growth: The oil palm industry can contribute to a country's GDP, stimulating economic growth and reducing poverty. - Community development: Oil palm companies can invest in community development projects, such as education and healthcare, benefiting local populations. - Sustainable agriculture: Promoting sustainable oil palm practices can improve yields and reduce environmental impacts, ensuring a stable income source for farmers. By adopting sustainable and socially responsible practices, this project can play a significant role in reducing poverty and improving the well-being of local communities within the farm location.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

On a large scale production of oil palm, it can contribute to achieving the "Zero Hunger" goal (SDG 2) in various ways: - Food security: Oil palm is a crucial crop for food security, providing a widely consumed source of edible oil. - Sustainable agriculture: Promoting sustainable oil palm practices improves yields, reduces environmental impacts and ensures a stable food supply. - Smallholder support: Many smallholder farmers rely on oil palm as a livelihood, improving their food access and security. - Economic growth: The oil palm industry contributes to local economies, enhancing access to food and reducing poverty. - Nutritious food: Red palm oil, in particular, is a rich source of beta-carotene (Vitamin A), helping to address micronutrient deficiencies.

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

Oil palm production can contribute to achieving the "Good Health and Well-being" goal (SDG 3) in several ways: - Nutritious food: Oil palm products, like red palm oil, are rich in vitamins A and E, and fatty acids, promoting healthy diets and nutrition. - Healthcare access: Revenue generated from oil palm production can fund healthcare infrastructure and services in rural areas. - Community development: Oil palm companies can invest in health-related community development projects, such as malaria prevention and sanitation programs. - Occupational health: Implementing safe working conditions and health protections for oil palm workers can reduce workplace injuries and illnesses. - Research and development: The oil palm industry can fund research on the health benefits of oil palm products and support development of new, healthier products. With sustainable and socially responsible practices, oil palm production can play a role in promoting SDG 3 particularly in rural communities.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Our oil palm production can contribute to (SDG 4) in several ways: - Education infrastructure: Revenue from oil palm production can fund the construction of schools and educational facilities in rural areas. - Scholarships and sponsorships: Oil palm companies can provide scholarships and sponsorships for students from oil palm-growing communities to pursue higher education. - Vocational training: The industry can offer training programs for students and young adults, teaching skills relevant to the oil palm sector. - Community development: Oil palm companies can support adult literacy programs and community development initiatives that promote education and skills development. - Partnerships and collaborations: The oil palm industry can partner with educational institutions to develop curricula and research programs focused on sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. By investing in education, this project can help empower communities and promote sustainable development

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

It can contribute to achieving the "Gender Equality" goal in several ways: - Economic empowerment: Oil palm production can provide income opportunities for women, enhancing their economic independence and decision-making power. - Women's participation: Encouraging women's participation in oil palm farming, processing, and marketing can help bridge the gender gap in the industry. - Training and capacity building: Providing training and capacity-building programs for women in oil palm production can enhance their skills and confidence. - Addressing gender-based violence: Oil palm companies can implement policies and programs to prevent and respond to gender-based violence in the workplace and communities. - Women's leadership: Encouraging women's leadership in oil palm producer organizations and industry associations can help amplify their voices and perspectives. By promoting gender equality, oil palm production can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Oil palm production can contribute to achieving the SDG 6) in several ways - Water conservation: Implementing efficient water management systems in oil palm cultivation and processing can reduce water waste and conserve this vital resource. - Sustainable water sourcing: Ensuring that water sources are sustainable and do not harm local ecosystems or communities can help maintain water quality. - Wastewater treatment: Implementing effective wastewater treatment systems in oil palm mills and processing facilities can prevent water pollution. - Sanitation and hygiene: Providing access to safe sanitation and hygiene facilities for oil palm workers and nearby communities can improve public health. - Water storage: Building water storage infrastructure, such as reservoirs and dams, can help manage water resources and reduce the risk of water scarcity. By adopting sustainable water management practices, it can contribute to ensuring clean water and sanitation for all.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

This oil palm production project will contribute to Affordable and clean energy in the following ways; 1. Biofuels: Oil palm biomass can be converted into biofuels, providing a renewable alternative to fossil fuels for energy generation. 2. Biopower: Oil palm residues can be used to generate electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. 3. Sustainable land use: Implementing sustainable oil palm production practices can help reduce deforestation and promote ecosystem conservation, supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. 4. Energy access: Oil palm-based bioenergy can increase energy access in rural areas, promoting economic development and social equity. 5. Research and development: The oil palm industry can drive innovation in renewable energy technologies, contributing to the development of new sustainable energy solutions.

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

Oil palm production can contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8): Decent Work and Economic Growth, in these aspects: - Boosts economy: Substantially contributes to the economy and livelihoods of local communities in many developing producer countries. - Poverty reduction: Contributes to poverty reduction. - Food security: Contributes to food security. - Decent work: Can provide decent work opportunities for many people. - Economic growth: Can contribute to economic growth.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Oil palm production can contribute to achieving Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, in several ways: 1. Infrastructure development: Oil palm production can drive investment in infrastructure development, such as roads, ports, and storage facilities. 2. Industrial growth: The oil palm industry can contribute to the growth of related industries, such as food processing, cosmetics, and biofuels. 3. Innovation: The industry can drive innovation in areas like sustainable production practices, crop yields, and product development. 4. Technology adoption: Oil palm production can adopt and develop new technologies, such as precision agriculture, drones, and satellite imaging. 5. Value chain development: The industry can develop value chains that create jobs and income opportunities for local communities. 6. Infrastructure for rural development: Oil palm production can lead to the development of rural infrastructure, such as electricity, water supply, and communication networks.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

This project can contribute to achieving SDG 10, in several ways: 1. Income opportunities: Oil palm production can provide income opportunities for smallholder farmers, rural communities, and indigenous peoples. 2. Economic empowerment: The industry can economically empower women, youth, and marginalized groups through employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. 3. Social inclusion: Oil palm production can promote social inclusion by providing access to education, healthcare, and social services for rural communities. 4. Reduced poverty: The industry can help reduce poverty and inequality by providing stable income sources and social safety nets. 5. Community development: Oil palm companies can invest in community development projects, such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education facilities. 6. Fair trade practices: The industry can adopt fair trade practices, ensuring fair prices, fair labor conditions, and fair distribution of benefits.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

It can help contribute to these; 1. Sustainable urban planning: Oil palm production can support sustainable urban planning by providing resources for urban development and infrastructure. 2. Green spaces: Oil palm plantations can maintain green spaces and ecosystems, supporting urban biodiversity and ecosystem services. 3. Urban-rural linkages: The industry can strengthen urban-rural linkages, promoting economic development and social connections between urban and rural areas. 4. Waste management: Oil palm production can generate biomass waste, which can be converted into energy or compost, supporting sustainable waste management in cities. 5. Climate resilience: Sustainable oil palm production can help cities and communities build climate resilience by promoting sustainable land use and ecosystem conservation. 6. Infrastructure development: The industry can support infrastructure development in rural areas, improving access to basic services like water, energy, and transportation.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

This oil palm production in large scale will contribute to SDG 12 in the following ways; 1. Circular economy: Oil palm biomass can be converted into valuable products like biofuels, biopower, and compost, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. 2. Sustainable consumption: Encouraging sustainable consumption patterns by promoting certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO) and deforestation-free products. 3. Life cycle assessment: Conducting life cycle assessments to identify areas for improvement and reduce environmental impacts throughout the value chain. 4. Research and development: Investing in research and development to improve yields, disease resistance, and climate resilience, reducing the need for deforestation and habitat destruction. 5. Resource efficiency: Optimizing water and fertilizer use, and implementing efficient processing technologies, reduces waste and pollution.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

2

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

By adopting climate-friendly practices, our oil palm industry can contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change and achieve SDG 13 in the following ways; 1. Renewable energy: Oil palm biomass can be converted into biofuels, biopower, and bioenergy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 2. Sustainable land use: Implementing sustainable land use practices, such as agroforestry and reforestation, can help mitigate deforestation and habitat destruction. 3. Climate-resilient crops: Developing climate-resilient oil palm varieties can help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions. 4. Reduced deforestation: Sustainable oil palm production can reduce deforestation and habitat destruction, preserving carbon-rich ecosystems. 5. Ecosystem conservation: Conserving ecosystems in oil palm landscapes can maintain ecosystem services, including carbon storage and regulation. 6. Carbon sequestration: Oil palm plantations can act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Our oil palm farm and production can contribute to achieving; 1. Sustainable water management: Implementing efficient water management practices in oil palm production can reduce water pollution and conserve water resources. 2. Aquatic ecosystem conservation: Protecting aquatic ecosystems in oil palm landscapes can maintain biodiversity and ecosystem services. 3. Reduced pollution: Implementing sustainable practices can reduce pollution from oil palm production, protecting aquatic ecosystems and marine life. 4. Sustainable aquaculture: Oil palm production can be integrated with sustainable aquaculture practices, promoting eco-friendly food production. 5. Research and development: Encouraging research and development in sustainable oil palm production and aquatic ecosystem conservation can drive innovation and best practices.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Oil palm production can contribute to; - Responsible land use practices: Implementing sustainable land use practices, such as agroforestry and reforestation, can help conserve ecosystems and reduce deforestation. - Conservation of ecosystems: Protecting ecosystems in oil palm landscapes can maintain biodiversity and ecosystem services. - Sustainable agriculture: Promoting climate-smart agriculture practices, such as conservation agriculture, can improve soil health, reduce emissions, and enhance ecosystem services. - Reduced deforestation: Sustainable oil palm production can reduce deforestation and habitat destruction, preserving carbon-rich ecosystems. - Ecosystem restoration: Restoring degraded ecosystems in oil palm landscapes can improve ecosystem services and biodiversity.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Oil palm production can help with the following; 1. Conflict resolution: Implementing sustainable oil palm production practices can help resolve land conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence between communities and companies. 2. Human rights protection: Ensuring that oil palm production respects and protects human rights, particularly for indigenous peoples and local communities. 3. Legal frameworks: Strengthening legal frameworks and governance structures to prevent deforestation, land grabbing, and human rights violations. 4. Transparency and accountability: Promoting transparency and accountability in the oil palm industry, including traceability and certification schemes. 5. Community engagement: Engaging with local communities and ensuring their participation in decision-making processes related to oil palm production. 6. Access to justice: Ensuring access to justice for communities and individuals affected by oil palm production, including access to legal remedies and redress.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Oil palm production can help achieve Partnerships for the Goals, in several ways: 1. Multi-stakeholder partnerships: Building partnerships among governments, companies, NGOs, and communities to promote sustainable oil palm production. 2. International cooperation: Encouraging international cooperation to share best practices, technology, and resources to support sustainable oil palm production. 3. Capacity building: Building capacities of smallholder farmers, communities, and institutions to improve sustainable oil palm production and trade. 4. Technology transfer: Transferring technology and expertise to support sustainable oil palm production, processing, and trade. 5. Financing sustainable development: Mobilizing financial resources to support sustainable oil palm production and trade, including access to credit and insurance for smallholder farmers. 6. Trade and investment: Promoting trade and investment in sustainable oil palm products, including certified sustainable palm oil.

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

2

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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.

6

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

3

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.

6

05.08 Justification

Our oil palm farming and production initiative promises to stand out from others as we plan to adopt unique approaches such as organic and regenerative farming which will focus on sustainable practices like soil conservation, and biodiversity preservation. We also plan on investing in technology integration as well as agro-tourism and education for which our farm would offer farm tours and training programs for sustainable agriculture and our collaborative farming model will enable us partner with smallholder farmers, by providing training resources and market access.

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

In the oil palm production industry, our main potential competitors are other companies that cultivate and process oil palm such as Wilmar, local and regional players (e.g., smallholder farmers, cooperatives) etc. To stand out from them, we will commit to the following; 1. Sustainable practices: we will commit to environmental and social responsibility, such as certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO) certification. 2. Quality and consistency :Our focus will be on producing high-quality oil palm products, ensuring consistent taste, texture, and nutritional content. 3. We will invest in research and development to improve yields, disease resistance, and water efficiency, reducing environmental impact. 4. Building strong relationships with local communities, ensuring fair land acquisition, employment opportunities, and social support. 5. We will implement robust traceability systems, ensuring transparency in our supply chain and product origin.

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

Yes, we plan on rolling out a couple of programs such as providing training on entrepreneurship, business management and oil palm production to female farmers.