eMsika, a pioneering agri-tech enterprise based in Zambia, has been making waves in the agricultural sector with its specialized digital platform designed to cater to the unique requirements of poultry farmers. This innovative company, which also operates a brick-and-mortar store, has announced plans to broaden its reach into four additional markets following a period of robust growth and positive reception from its target audience.
The company was co-founded in 2016 by entrepreneurs Gilbert Mwale and Elton Chirwa. eMsika’s core offering is the FarmHouse app, which serves as a one-stop digital resource for poultry and livestock farmers, offering them easy access to essential farming inputs like chicks, feed, and vaccines. In addition to these products, eMsika also provides valuable on-farm visit support to assist farmers in their agricultural endeavors.
In a conversation with Disrupt Africa, Mwale explained the motivation behind eMsika’s inception. He highlighted the lack of accessible, user-friendly digital tools specifically designed for smallholder poultry and livestock farmers, particularly those operating in urban areas. According to Mwale, while there are other players in the agricultural technology space, eMsika’s FarmHouse app sets itself apart by focusing on delivering comprehensive on-farm technical advice and high-quality inputs that meet the specific needs of these smallholder farmers.
The FarmHouse app not only facilitates the procurement of farming inputs but also offers educational training and networking opportunities for farmers. In a move to further engage and support its user base, eMsika has introduced a farmer membership program known as Farmhouse Plus. Additionally, the company has established a physical storefront and forged partnerships with multinational suppliers to bolster its service offerings.
To date, the FarmHouse app has been downloaded approximately 2,000 times, and eMsika has successfully provided online training to around 8,000 farmers. Looking ahead, the company is poised to venture into new territories, including Tanzania, Nigeria, Egypt, and Zimbabwe. This expansion is primarily driven by the app’s Poultry Manager feature, and eMsika is actively seeking collaborative partnerships to facilitate this growth.
eMsika’s funding journey has been supported by a mix of equity investments, grants, and strategic partnerships, with the company having secured a total of US$150,000 in funding since its establishment. Currently, eMsika is in the process of raising an additional US$50,000, which will be allocated towards marketing initiatives, technological advancements, and the recruitment of a key team member.
Mwale shared insights into eMsika’s revenue model, noting that the company generates income through subscription fees for on-farm technical support and profit margins from product sales. While the primary focus remains on expanding the user base, eMsika is also dedicated to incrementally increasing its revenue streams, as outlined by Mwale.
