Tanzanian agritech startup MazaoHub has raised $2 million in a pre-seed funding round to expand its innovative “Tech & Touch” agronomy model, which combines AI-driven soil intelligence with local farmer support.
This innovative hybrid method lets smallholder farmers boost output, save expenses, and adapt to climate change, revolutionising African agriculture.
Funding to expand AI-powered agronomy
MazaoHub’s $2 million raise includes $1.5 million in equity led by Catalyst Fund, alongside Nordic Impact Fund, Mercy Corps Ventures, elea Foundation, Impacc, and DOB Equity.
Additionally, the company secured $500,000 in non-dilutive capital from the Livelihood Impact Fund, which means MazaoHub retains full ownership for that portion.
The new funding will increase the manufacture of low-cost soil sensors and soil-testing kits, significantly expand East Africa’s Farmer Excellence Centres from 25 to 60, and scale CropSupply.com, an online marketplace connecting farmers with bulk purchasers.
“Our goal is to equip every smallholder with actionable insights and market access that can double their income within three years,” said Geophrey Tenganamba, MazaoHub CEO and co-founder.
This “Tech & Touch” model transforms farmers into data-driven decision-makers while promoting sustainable farming practices.
Tech & Touch model boosts yields and cuts costs
MazaoHub uses AI-powered soil sensors and portable kits to provide farmers with personalised crop management advice. It optimises fertiliser and water use to raise yields by about 25% while cutting fertiliser consumption by up to 30%.
The Farmer Excellence Centres offer local support with on-the-ground agronomy advice and help farmers sell produce via CropSupply.com, improving market access and transparency.
Maelis Carraro, managing partner at Catalyst Fund, praised MazaoHub, saying, “African agriculture can blend data insights with local agronomists to enable sustainable farming at scale.” By combining technology with human expertise, MazaoHub is positioned to strengthen food security and rural economies across East Africa.
This funding and model underline growing investor confidence in climate-smart agriculture solutions on the continent, as MazaoHub moves to scale its impact in smallholder farming and market linkage.