Our Business Model
Prior to the establishment of Akili, Haron Wachira was a consultant with UNDP for 2 years to establish the cause of endemic poverty in 20 constituencies spread accross Kenya and to develop possible ways out. The project proposed a slate of micro industries that could potentially create meaningful employment on a large scale in each of these counties. The business model for the Akili Group was inspired by this study.
Akili Group Activities
The intricacies and strategies that power our organization
Our business model is the blueprint that guides our every decision and action. It’s the compass that keeps us on course toward our goals, and it’s the foundation upon which we build sustainable growth and lasting relationships.
Agroforestry
We actively support farmers in cultivating fruit, nut, and shade trees. These trees serve as a source of income for farmers and contribute to carbon offsetting by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thus earning carbon credits
Agronomy Training
Our agronomy training programs are designed to assist farmers in their value chain activities. These programs offer practical, calendar-linked guidance, detailing what actions should be taken in each month for optimal crop improvement. For instance, our demonstrated results have led to significant increases in coffee plant yields, from approximately 2 kg to 20 kg, along with the adoption of practices that enhance the quality of coffee.
Community Improvement Projects
We work closely with farming communities connected to Akili Group’s carbon offsetting and credit value chain. Together, we strategize, design, and establish financing partnerships to implement community infrastructure improvements, such as improved access to water, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.
Value Addition
We focus on developing agricultural crops with significant health benefits, such as moringa oleifera, spinach, hibiscus, and lemongrass. These crops are processed into a stable dried form and used as ingredients in both human and animal foods.
Farm Improvement Protocols & Products
We collaborate with farmers to develop precision farming protocols and practices. This includes the use of high-impact inputs like water retainers, biochar, animal feed booster, and high-yielding seed varieties, all aimed at increasing agricultural yields.
Value Chain management Technology
Akili Group is at the forefront of developing high-efficiency software tools to monitor activities within the value chains. More about the Akili eT
“ Our multifaceted approach reflects our commitment to holistic community development, sustainable agriculture, and environmental preservation.”
The Problems We Seek to Solve
In many communities in Kenya:
- Agricultural production is generally unprofitable – subsidized by ‘diaspora’-based relatives, government and/or NGOs
Education is valued, highly funded, but almost NEVER applied in small-scale agriculture. - Common: A general state of poverty, except among traders, brokers and the employed, eg teachers. Result: rapid urban migration to overstretched cities.
- In nearly all rural communities (which account for 80% of Kenya’s population) there is progressive deterioration: of security; of the economy; of the environment; of the quality of life.
A dairy cow, for example is maintained at over Shs 300 ($3) but only produces 3 litres of milk, which fetch a maximum of Shs 100 ($1). Pastoralists keep a cow for five years, at a cost of around Shs 30,000 ($300) only to sell it for Shs 15,000 ($150) or lose it during drought.
Our Partners
By partnering with us in our carbon offsetting efforts, you get involved in climate mitigation for a greener tomorrow.
Our Communities
The first Akili Community was born in Kangema, in Murang’a County.
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