Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

WASOJA is an online market where you can buy real African food and ingredients from local food producers in Nigeria and other African countries to cook your traditional food. Enjoy the taste of Africa. wherever you are.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

WASOJA, meaning 'Come To Market' in Yoruba, is an online marketplace connecting you to authentic African food products and ingredients. We connect local food products and ingredients producers from Nigeria and other African countries to Africans in diaspora, making it easy to shop traditional food from the comfort of your own home. Whether you're craving spicy peppers, soup, or hearty african staples, WASOJA brings the African market to your doorstep. Explore our virtual shelves and discover the taste of Africa.

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

After researching the market, we found that Africans abroad often pay high prices for small quantities of African food products. To address this, we're connecting diaspora Africans with local producers, offering fair market prices and quantities for authentic products. Additionally, we're digitally linking local food manufacturers with international buyers, enabling them to earn foreign income and expand their reach.

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

The major benefit is that WASOJA provides: 1. Convenience: WASOJA provides a one-stop online marketplace for Africans in the diaspora to access a wide variety of authentic African food products, eliminating the need for lengthy searches and trips to local markets. 2. Affordability: By connecting consumers directly with local producers, WASOJA reduces costs and makes African food products more affordable for consumers, while also ensuring fair prices for producers. 3. Empowerment: WASOJA empowers local producers to reach international markets, boosting their income and promoting African cuisine globally. This contributes to the economic development of African communities and celebrates African culture. Additional benefits include: - Supporting sustainable and ethical food practices - Providing a platform for African food producers to compete in the global market - Offering a diverse range of African food products, promoting discovery and exploration of new flavors and ingredients.

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

1. African diaspora seeking traditional food products: People of African descent living outside Africa who want to access traditional African food products, connecting them to their cultural heritage. 2. Small-scale farmers and food producers in Africa: Small-scale farmers, especially women and youth-led enterprises, who produce traditional African food products and seek access to markets and economic opportunities. 3. Local food processors, artisans, and aggregators in Africa: Businesses and individuals in Africa who process, transform, and package traditional food products, enhancing their value and marketability.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-07-31

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

2

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.)

1. Oriola Oluwajuwonlo Elijah : Law Graduate, entrepreneur, and project manager with expertise in data annotation, financial management, legal knowledge, and remote work. Founded and managed a successful business (StartNow Jay Ventures), overseeing operations and strategy. Language proficiency: Fluent in English, Yoruba, Igala, 2. Ogunsola Elizabeth Olufunke : Recent English graduate with exceptional writing, speaking, and storytelling skills. Creative writer with a passion for crafting compelling narratives about Africa. As a creative writer, she writes engaging product descriptions, poetry, plays, blog posts, essays, social media content, etc. She also has a unique writing style and voice that captures the essence of Africa. Language proficiency:, Fluent in English (Both writing and speaking)

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

https://www.facebook.com/iniogunsola

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Agriculture

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

It will provide employment opportunities for youth and women in different sectors of the economy which includes logistics, food processors, artisans, promote economic growth, and support sustainable agriculture practices. It will also reduces income inequalities, supporting fair labor practices and promoting diversity and inclusion.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

With the prevalence of hunger and malnutrition due to economic factors in Africa and the diaspora community. It provide access to nutritious African food commodities at an affordable cost, promoting healthy eating habits and supporting sustainable agriculture practices. It will also reduces food waste, supporting initiatives that redistribute surplus food to vulnerable communities.

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Promotes good health and well-being by aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 in the following ways: 1. Access to nutritious food: WASOJA connects consumers to authentic African food products and ingredients, promoting healthy eating and access to nutritious food options. 2. Traditional and cultural preservation: By offering traditional African food items, WASOJA helps preserve cultural heritage and traditional cooking methods, which are essential for mental and emotional well-being. 3. Support for local farmers: By sourcing products from local farmers, WASOJA promotes sustainable agriculture and supports the livelihoods of small-scale farmers, contributing to their overall well-being. 4. Convenience and accessibility: WASOJA's online platform makes it easy for people to access healthy food options from the comfort of their own homes, especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or busy lifestyles.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

This is a project that promotes cultural heritage and culinary diversity, supporting educational initiatives that celebrate African cuisine and traditions. By supporting African agriculture, it contributes to quality education and skills development in Africa.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Gender equality is justified by aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: 1. Economic empowerment: WASOJA provides a platform for women farmers and producers to sell their products, promoting economic independence and financial stability. 2. Access to market: The online marketplace connects female producers to a broader customer base, transcending geographical limitations and bridging the gender gap in access to markets. 3. Increased opportunities: WASOJA creates opportunities for women to start or expand their businesses, fostering entrepreneurship and leadership in the food industry

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

WASOJA contributes to ensuring clean water and sanitation for all in several ways, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: 1. Supporting sustainable agriculture: By sourcing products from local farmers, WASOJA promotes sustainable agricultural practices, reducing the environmental impact on water resources. 2. Reducing water waste: The online platform minimizes the need for physical markets, reducing water waste and conserving this valuable resource.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

6

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

WASOJA contributes to ensuring access to affordable and clean energy for all in several ways, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: 1. Reduced carbon footprint: By connecting consumers to local producers, WASOJA minimizes the need for long-distance transportation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner energy. 2. Non-reliance on AI: Unlike other e-commerce platforms, WASOJA does not rely on energy-intensive artificial intelligence (AI) systems, reducing its carbon footprint and promoting clean energy.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

This project creates employment opportunities in Africa and the diaspora community, promoting decent work and economic growth. By partnering with African farmers, suppliers, and logistics providers, supporting their economic growth and contributing to sustainable development. The project also promotes fair labor practices, ensuring that all employees and partners are treated with dignity and respect.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

WASOJA contributes to industry innovation and infrastructure development by digitalizing traditional markets, investing in e-commerce infrastructure, and optimizing logistics and supply chain management. This enables African food producers to access global markets, increasing their competitiveness and promoting market growth. Additionally, WASOJA creates job opportunities in the e-commerce, logistics, and food processing sectors, contributing to economic growth and development. By promoting digital literacy and technology adoption among African food producers, WASOJA enhances their capacity to compete in the digital economy. Overall, WASOJA's innovative approach modernizes the African food industry, bridging the gap between traditional markets and digital commerce, and fostering economic development and growth.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

By aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10. WASOJA contributes to reducing inequalities within and among countries in several ways: 1. Empowering marginalized groups: By supporting small-scale farmers and local producers, WASOJA empowers marginalized groups, including women and youth, to participate in the economy. 2. Reducing geographic disparities: The online platform connects consumers to producers from different regions, reducing inequality in access to goods and services based on geographic location. 3. Fair pricing: WASOJA promotes fair pricing practices, ensuring that producers receive fair compensation for their products and reducing income inequality.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

By selling African food commodities to the diaspora community, The project promotes sustainable urban development. Reducing the need for physical stores, optimize logistics, and support online shopping, contributing to compact and connected cities. The project also encourages sustainable consumption patterns, reducing waste and supporting urban agriculture initiatives. Additionally, The project aim to partner with local African farmers, supporting their economic growth and contributing to the development of sustainable and resilient cities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

WASOJA's model promotes responsible consumption and production in several ways. By connecting consumers directly to local producers, WASOJA reduces carbon footprint, supports local economic growth, and ensures authentic and quality products. The platform also reduces food waste, promotes transparency and accountability, and supports small-scale farmers, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture and equitable food systems. Additionally, WASOJA preserves African culinary traditions, supporting cultural heritage and community development. By adopting a responsible approach, WASOJA contributes to a more sustainable food system, supporting local economies, reducing environmental impact, and promoting cultural preservation. This holistic approach benefits both consumers and producers, creating a positive impact on the environment, economy, and society..

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

WASOJA plan to combat climate change and its impacts in the following ways, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: 1. Sustainable agriculture: WASOJA promotes sustainable agricultural practices, reducing deforestation, soil degradation, and water pollution. 2. Green hosting: WASOJA will use a green hosting services, which power its platform with renewable energy, reducing its carbon footprint and supporting a low-carbon economy.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

WASOJA is not directly related to the "Life Below Water" sustainable development goal, as our platform focuses on promoting African food products and ingredients, rather than marine resources. However, the model recognizes the importance of sustainable practices in all industries, including food production and distribution. By supporting local farmers and reducing carbon footprint through efficient logistics, WASOJA contributes to a more sustainable food system, which aligns with the spirit of the "Life Below Water" goal.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

WASOJA will work with its partner farmers and producers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming, agroforestry, and permaculture, which promote soil conservation and biodiversity. The connection of local producers to global markets will also help to preserve traditional farming practices, promote local food systems, thus promoting conservation. Furthermore, promoting the sale of diverse, locally sourced food products, WASOJA can help preserve crop diversity, support the conservation of endangered species, and protect genetic resources.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

WASOJA project promotes peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice, and strong institutions in several ways (United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16) : 1. Inclusive economic opportunities: WASOJA provides a platform for local producers to access markets, promoting economic opportunities and reducing inequality. 2. Peaceful conflict resolution: The platform's dispute resolution process promotes peaceful conflict resolution between producers, consumers, and stakeholders. 3. Effective institutions: WASOJA partners with local institutions to promote sustainable development and build effective, inclusive institutions. 4. Social cohesion: The platform promotes social cohesion by connecting consumers and producers from diverse backgrounds, fostering understanding and cooperation

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

WASOJA project envision the spirit of partnerships for the goal of sustainable development, strengthening the means of implementation and revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development in several ways: 1. Cross-border collaborations: WASOJA connects producers from Nigeria and other African countries with consumers in the diaspora, fostering international partnerships and promoting South-South cooperation. 2. Multi-stakeholder engagement: The platform brings together farmers, producers, logistics providers, and consumers, creating a robust partnership that promotes sustainable development. 3. Capacity building: WASOJA empowers local producers by providing access to new markets, technology, and skills, enhancing their capacity to contribute to sustainable development. 4. Technology transfer: The platform leverages e-commerce and logistics technologies to bridge the gap between African producers and global consumers, promoting the transfer of technology and expertise.

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

4

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.

4

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.

6

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

WASOJA stands out with its unique focus on connecting local producers to Africans in diaspora. Its online marketplace model is innovative, improving upon existing platforms by specializing in African food products and providing a culturally relevant experience. WASOJA expands access to traditional African food products, addressing an unmet need for convenient access to authentic ingredients. It modernizes the traditional African market experience, making it more accessible and convenient for customers.

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

WASOJA main potential competitors in the online African food market space include: 1. Amazon 2. Africa Food Store at the diaspora community 3. African Food Market in diaspora community What makes WASOJA stand out from them? 1. Local food producers: WASOJA sources products directly from local farmers and food producers, ensuring freshness, quality, and supporting the local economy. 2. Wide African coverage: WASOJA plans to expand beyond Nigeria to other African countries, offering a diverse range of traditional foods and ingredients. 3. Authenticity: WASOJA focuses on traditional African cuisine, preserving cultural heritage and catering to the growing demand for authentic African food experiences. 4. Quality control: WASOJA ensures strict quality control measures, guaranteeing customers receive high-quality products.

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

As a Junior Achievement Nigeria volunteer (Oyo state chapter), I am initiating actions to promote the role of female entrepreneurs in my community by encouraging participation of female students to participate in Junior Achievement's programs, such as the Company Program, where they can develop essential entrepreneurial skills.