Grace Ashiru
South African agri-tech startup Nile has raised $11.3 million to boost its expansion across Southern Africa. The funding marks a major milestone for the company, which is fast emerging as a central digital force in the region’s agricultural sector. Since its founding in 2021, Nile has used technology to simplify and optimize fresh produce trading for farmers.
Nile’s digital platform equips farmers with tools that boost price transparency, improve product quality control, and accelerate payment processes. It also strengthens traceability and reduces food waste, persistent challenges in the sector. By tackling these issues, Nile enables farmers to trade more efficiently and profitably in a market long plagued by inefficiencies.
The $11.3 million round was spearheaded by the Cathay AfricInvest Innovation Fund, with strong backing from FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank. Platform Investment Partners, an early supporter, also took part—reinforcing its belief in Nile’s growth. This follows a $5.1 million raise in 2022 aimed at expanding the startup’s reach.
Armed with new funding, Nile is set to broaden its footprint across Southern Africa by scaling its digital marketplace for agricultural inputs. A key priority is building innovative financing products alongside partner banks to expand credit access and financial tools for farmers. These efforts are designed to foster a more inclusive and efficient agricultural ecosystem, benefiting both smallholders and commercial operators.
Co-founder Louis de Kock highlighted the strong adoption of Nile’s digital platform, driven by enthusiastic farmer engagement. With momentum on its side, Nile now aims to transition into a broader agri-tech ecosystem that goes beyond transactions. “With critical mass achieved, we can now use this funding to build a digital ecosystem that offers greater value and reduces risk for farmers,” said de Kock.
Henry Rahmann, investment officer at AfricInvest, emphasized Nile’s pivotal role in reshaping South Africa’s fresh produce market. He commended the startup for tackling critical challenges across the agricultural value chain, including input sourcing and access to finance. “We’re proud to support Nile’s outstanding team, together with FMO, as they build an agri-tech leader that uplifts farming communities across South Africa and the broader region,” Rahmann stated.
Nile’s recent funding round represents a major milestone for both the company and the advancement of agriculture in Southern Africa. Through the integration of technology, innovative financing, and expanded market access, Nile is helping farmers navigate long-standing obstacles and succeed in a fast-evolving sector. Backed by committed investors and a focused growth strategy, the company is poised to play a central role in shaping Africa’s agri-tech future.
