Sustainable Agriculture Innovator Daniel Oulai: Transforming Farming Practices in Côte d’Ivoire
Daniel Oulai, an Ivorian social entrepreneur, is revolutionizing sustainable agriculture in Côte d’Ivoire through his startup, Grainotech. Launched in 2017 in Abidjan, Grainotech focuses on integrating innovation and digital technologies to enhance local agricultural practices sustainably. The company’s mission includes structuring plant and animal value chains while promoting biodiversity, economic inclusion, and food autonomy.
Grainotech’s comprehensive ecosystem spans from animal reproduction to feed production, incorporating engineering tools to minimize post-harvest losses and advanced distribution systems. By providing training, equipment, and improved market access, Grainotech aims to empower 60,000 farming families by 2030.
Utilizing digital platforms, school farms, and a Fablab, Grainotech fosters innovation and knowledge sharing. The Fablab serves as a hub for developing open-source solutions like the connected solar incubator, designed to assist rural farmers without electricity access in reducing egg hatching losses using recycled materials.
Oulai’s academic background includes a master’s degree in agricultural development from AgroParisTech. His career path includes roles such as program director at ASBL Kouady, training manager at the International Rescue Committee, and consultant for the International Organization for Migration. His notable awards include the Initiative Climat Afrique francophone award and the Orange Social Entrepreneur Prize.
