Africa Business Communities

[Interview] Marc van der Sterren, Chief Editor and Consultant, FarmingAfrica, Netherlands

Marc van der Sterren is the Chief Editor and consultant at FarmingAfrica, Netherlands. His interview with Africa Business Communities:

Would you please introduce FarmingAfrica?

FarmingAfrica follows the agricultural development in Africa. In the first place by reporting on Farming Africa, but also in other media. It is also for companies who are active in Africa.

Our specialism on Farming in Africa can be taken much further. As a consultancy, we can be your partner in investigating new emerging markets for your agricultural specialism.

In which industries does FarmingAfrica operate and who are your clients?

We operate in agriculture and horticulture. Our clients are mainly smaller companies who want to discover new markets.

What are the USP’s of your business?

The USP’s is a broad network in mainly East-Africa.

Why did you start FarmingAfrica?

Africa is great. It is a continent with enormous possibilities for African citizens, together with foreign investors who take them along.

What is your business background?

I worked and still work as a journalist. I have always worked in agriculture and have always been interested in Africa.

What can be done by entrepreneurs and the government to stimulate the business environment in Kenya?

In Kenya where I have most of my connections, the ending of corruption will be a huge task. I am very glad with the visit of Obama and his addressing this topic.

What’s the best part about doing business in/with Africa?

It’s a continent that is just starting to emerge. There are chances for almost all businesses. Everyone who has the knowledge about a specific sector can build a future over there.

What can you say about the targets, plans and ambitions of FarmingAfrica for the rest of 2015?

Hope to share knowledge. People in Europe need to be aware that knowledge is the key. Farmers in Africa have an enormous potential, because of the increasing economy. The rising demand of food brings chances, but they have to get access to the market and the market demands constant, sustainable, secure quality. If farmers know-how to produce and organize, they sure make money.

The importance of productive small-scaled farmers is still underestimated. When they are able to make money with food, the whole chain of processing, packaging, transport will profit. This means there will be a sustainable economy on the countryside, which is the only way to prevent urbanization.

For further business interests, contact Marc van der Sterren

www.nl.linkedin.com/in/marcvandersterren

www.farmingafrica.net

www.twitter.com/Farming_Africa

 

 

 

 

Grand Elysée Hotel

Don't miss the Africa Business Communities Networking Event | Hamburg - 21 September 2015

The Grand Elysée Hotel in Hamburg, located close to the business district and the Alster, is the perfect location to meet with top business professionals operating in Africa. Click and read here all about it.

Share this article