Nairobi, Kenya – 6th August 2021
The impact of COVID-19 on the local fish supply chain continues to be felt across the value chain. Fisherfolk are struggling to sell, while fish traders are struggling to off-take fish due to restrictions. At the same time, fish imports have reduced significantly due to disruptions in global logistics, creating a wider deficit in fish supply that could only be met through local channels. These challenges present a unique opportunity for Keep IT Cool.
With support from Msingi East Africa, Keep IT Cool created a go-to-market strategy and extended the Markiti platform — a smart distribution platform powered by a decentralized cold chain — to support small and medium-sized fish farms.
By June 2021, the Markiti platform had helped off-take over 50MT from small-scale fish farms during the first six months of the pilot, securing livelihoods and creating new, efficient market channels for small-scale fisherfolk.
This validation of the Markiti platform met and surpassed the initial set KPIs, unlocking more grant funding and support from Msingi East Africa. The funds will be used to extend off-take services to more regions and meet working capital needs.
About Msingi East Africa
Msingi East Africa is a leading investor in aquaculture. They work to support competitiveness, innovation, and growth in aquaculture across East Africa. They have invested in and continue to support over 10 fish farms in East Africa.
