Akofresh’s CEO, Mathias Charles Yabe has been recognized as one of the winners of the prestigious 2024 Anzisha Prize, a leading youth entrepreneurship initiative for entrepreneurs between 15 to 22 years in Africa. Mathias was awarded the prize for job creation through his innovative agribusiness, AkoFresh, which is making a significant impact in Ghana’s agricultural sector.
AkoFresh provides farmers with food preservation and cold storage services to help extend the shelf life of crops, addressing one of the major challenges faced by smallholder farmers—post-harvest losses. The cold storage facilities are powered by solar energy, making this solution not only effective but also environmentally friendly. By helping farmers maintain the quality of their produce, AkoFresh enables them to earn higher incomes while also contributing to food security in the region.
The business model also emphasizes job creation, both directly and indirectly, through its supply chain. This focus on employment generation was a key factor in Yabe winning the Anzisha Prize, which comes with a $10,000 award along with access to mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.
The Anzisha Prize, in partnership with the African Leadership Academy and Mastercard Foundation, celebrates young entrepreneurs across Africa who are driving change and creating positive social and economic impacts in their communities. For Mathias Yabe, this recognition not only highlights his work in transforming agriculture in Ghana but also puts a spotlight on the potential of youth-led innovation in solving pressing issues in the country.
