Food security remains a critical challenge in Ghana, with research indicating that about 12% of the population faces moderate to severe food insecurity. Small-scale farmers work tirelessly to feed their communities, yet many struggle with low productivity and poor yields due to outdated farming methods, climate change, and limited market access. These challenges highlight an urgent need for competent agricultural solutions to improve yields and sustain livelihoods. Amidst these difficulties, Anaporka Adazabra, a Ghanaian entrepreneur with a background in Information and Communications Technology (ICT), saw an opportunity to revolutionise farming through technology. So, in 2019, she co-founded Farm.io Limited, an agribusiness that uses innovative farming solutions to improve productivity and promote sustainability.
“While studying for my major in Computer Science, I simply wanted to understand what kind of technology could be used to ensure year-round production, save on water use, and ensure affordability and profitability for people earning below $5 a day on their open-field farms.” -Anaporka Adazabra, co-founder, Farm.io Limited.
How Farm.IO is revolutionising agriculture
Farm.io Limited, co-founded by Anaporka Adazabra and Amos Narh in Adenta, Accra, Ghana, is revolutionising smallholder farming with eco-friendly, technology-driven solutions. Specialising in greenhouse farming, precision agriculture, and sustainable practices, the company empowers farmers to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact.
By offering controlled greenhouse environments, they mitigate risks associated with unpredictable weather, ensuring consistent and higher yields. They integrate IoT sensors for precision agriculture, optimising irrigation and fertilisation while minimising waste. Innovative water conservation techniques, like drip irrigation, significantly reduce water usage, making farming more efficient and sustainable.
Beyond cultivation, Farm.io enhances food security and farmer prosperity through integrated pest management and improved market access. Promoting natural pest control methods helps farmers reduce dependency on chemical pesticides, preserving biodiversity and soil health.
The company also bridges the gap between smallholder farmers and premium markets, ensuring fair pricing and improved livelihoods. Its five-pronged approach fosters a resilient agricultural ecosystem in which technology and sustainability work together to support the future of African farming.
The impact on lives and communities
The impact of Farm.io has been massive for small-scale farmers in Ghana. Thanks to improved market access, many who previously earned less than $0.40 per kilo of produce earn up to $3 per kilo. As of 2024, Farm.IO had also built a network of over 220 farmers (74% women) who distributed their produce to 25 grocery stores and 430 retail consumers.
They have completed over 100 projects, producing over 600 vegetables and 350 snails. Farm.io also has over 10 partners who support its work.
In 2022, TotalEnergies Ghana recognised Adazabra as the Best Top Female Entrepreneur in the Startupper of the Year Challenge, acknowledging her contributions to sustainable farming and food security.
