The third edition of the AFEX Code Cash Crop Ag-Hackathon was a remarkable event that showcased the talent and creativity of young ag-tech entrepreneurs in Africa. In 2022, we challenged participants to come up with innovative solutions that can disrupt the agriculture trade infrastructure and improve the food system.

But what happened to the participants after the hackathon? How did they progress with their ideas and businesses? What challenges and opportunities did they encounter along the way? And what advice do they have for aspiring ag-tech innovators in CCC 4.0 ag-hackathon?

To find out, we interviewed some of our top finalists of the third edition of the ag-hackathon and asked them about their journeys and achievements so far. First, we sat down with the winner of Code Cash Crop 3.0, Prince Achoja, to talk about his CCC experience and journey since winning the ag-hackathon.

Hi Prince, nice to chat with you again. So, I am curious, what inspired you to sign up for Code Cash Crop?

As a young person passionate about technology, I had always wanted opportunities where I can contribute towards creating a sustainable world. I have a sole interest in financial technology especially when it has to do mostly with financial Inclusion. The theme of Code Cash Crop last year gave me a keen interest. I had always wanted to create solutions that will help farmers in accessing financial services.

You did an amazing job at the last edition of the Code Cash Crop ag-hackathon. Can you walk me through the problem you are solving with your project?

Thank you very much.

So, I discovered that with several financial solutions in Nigeria, access to financial services remains a main challenge, especially for farmers. This is usually caused by a lack of trust, network challenges, and issues around proximity, especially those farmers in most remote communities. Farmers in Nigeria are usually financially excluded and lack access to modern-day methodologies and procedures this has continually hindered scaling most times for farmers.

My solution provides farmers with access to modern farming processes, connecting them to agro-experts and extension workers and at the same time delivering them an easily accessible financial solution.

What significant impact/benefit did CCC 3.0 have on you and your work? Tell us what part of the program was the most beneficial for you and if it has been a game changer in any way.

There are some events that have a life-long effect on someone’s life. CCC 3.0 is one for me, as participants in the hackathon the event started 2-days earlier for us with connections to mentors. We had the opportunity to work at the AFEX office in Lagos. This gave me the exposure and work environment ethics I needed. I had an opportunity to meet coaches who opened up to new ways and possibilities for our solutions.

The pre-hackathon preparation was a game-changer for me as some of the things I was able to pick I applied almost immediately in my product, and I started to see the positive impact almost immediately.

The panel discussion was also a main highlight for me as I learned firsthand from industry experts, hearing them share their stories, and answering some questions that continue to linger in our minds as young entrepreneurs.

Lastly, the network opportunities during the event were just amazing, I was able to meet and connect with major key players and stakeholders in the ecosystem. I have since received countless more opportunities as a result of this network.

Following up on last year’s event, how has your company/personal brand innovated around tech & finance?

After the event, I remember getting constructive feedback from the judges, this feedback has so far helped me innovate my solution. I have rebranded from Maaji to Kudinka, and further developed the product to become more adaptive and inclusive for farmers of all educational backgrounds and know-how. As a result of CCC, I am now a better Entrepreneur and I understand better what it means to deliver a tailored solution for farmers.

We’d love to hear from you, what are some of the milestones you or your business have achieved since joining the programme?

Yes, we had, we were selected as the 5th top innovative solution driving financial inclusion by the CBN/AFF in August shortly after the CCC 3.0, this has given us more access to connections, and access to the CBN Developer Sandbox to further help us build our product. Currently, we are in the concluding phase of our CBN accelerator program, and our product will become more accessible shortly after.

What are Nigerians’ key /unique challenges in accessing life-enhancing infrastructural development within the agricultural sector?

In northern Nigeria where I am from, the core challenges will almost remain:

• Accesss to updated farming processes, tools, and resources.
• Access to financial services such as thrifts, loans, and savings tailored in a more user-centric pattern, delivering them this solution in their most localized way.
• Access to Markets, logistics, and storage facilities.

I believe the challenges around Agriculture are peculiar to a particular region, so the above challenges are peculiar to northern Nigeria.

Are there any initiatives/steps your business is taking to enhance market-led solutions in Africa?

Yes, as we see more interactions with these farmers and these companies. I think most companies now understand that the fastest way to scale their product journey is to carry the farmers in the development process of every step they are taking. We can see that with the incredible work AFEX Xperts are doing with the farmers.

Where do you see your business in the next 3 to 5 years?

We are coming gradually, but in the next 3-5 years I see our products as a giant in the financial space, especially because of the uniqueness of the product. This of course is more than a dream for us as we have a proper roadmap that takes us as a company to this destination. We believe we can solve Africa’s biggest challenge in Ag-Fintech and we will stop until we get it done.

What are your thoughts on Code Cash Crop and whom would you recommend attending?

CCC 4.0 is another level, I cannot wait to participate. I am a product of CCC and would recommend it any day anytime. I am doing a massive clarion call to everyone to register for this event, participate and enjoy the life-long impact of CCC.