Africa Prize Investor Community Event Profiles
Lawrencia Kwansah, Ghana
Aquaponics Hub
Aquaponics Hub integrates aquaculture, hydroponics, and IoT to produce fish and vegetables sustainably, empowering urban households while conserving resources
Aquaponics Hub tackles the urgent need for sustainable food production amidst a growing global population and resource constraints. The challenge is the escalating demand for food, which strains land, water, and nutrient resources, particularly in urban areas. Traditional farming methods are resource-intensive and environmentally harmful, necessitating innovative solutions for food security.
Our solution is an integrated system, Aquaponics Hub, combining aquaculture, hydroponics, and IoT to sustainably produce fish and vegetables. Fish waste naturally fertilise plants, eliminating the need for soil or inorganic fertilisers. Key features include sensors and a mobile app that monitor factors affecting plant growth and water quality, ensuring optimal conditions. The app also serves as a learning and marketing platform for users.
Our business model includes three revenue streams: sales of aquaponics systems, training sessions, and a marketplace feature within the app. We offer various system types priced between GHS 9,000 and GHS 12,000, with consulting services included. Training sessions are available for a fee, and the marketplace allows vendors to sell aquaponics-related products, with an option for an annual subscription for enhanced features.
In the competitive landscape, Aquaponics Hub stands out by integrating smart sensors and a mobile app that directly connects farmers to markets. This innovative approach offers a competitive edge in the growing local market for organic produce and aquaponics systems.
The impact of the Aquaponics Hub is significant. It fosters sustainable food production, reduces environmental degradation, and empowers financially disadvantaged urban households. It enhances food security, creates jobs, and supports economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa by training individuals in aquaponics system management