In this podcast episode, Luni Libbes, the founder of Fledge and Africa Eats, discusses his innovative approach to impact investing in Africa. Africa Eats is a unique investment holding company that combines elements of venture capital and business acceleration with a long-term partnership ethos inspired by Warren Buffett. Libbes explains how Africa Eats invests in and supports homegrown African entrepreneurs, helping them grow their businesses and address food security and poverty challenges on the continent.The episode delves into how Africa Eats aims to reduce food waste and empower smallholder farmers, highlighting success stories of companies within its portfolio. Libbes also addresses questions related to sustainable agriculture and the impact of industrialization on greenhouse gas emissions in Africa.Overall, this podcast episode provides valuable insights into the innovative business model of Africa Eats and its mission to create positive social and environmental impact in Africa while fostering long-term partnerships with local entrepreneurs.Timestamps:
- 00:03 - Introduction to the podcast and Luni Libbes
- 00:50 - Overview of Africa Eats and its unique business model
- 04:56 - Luni's philosophy and mission for Africa Eats
- 11:14 - Discussion of food security and poverty challenges in Africa
- 16:41 - Challenges and limitations faced by companies like East Africa Foods
- 22:55 - The need for reliable power sources in Africa
- 23:27 - Overcoming logistical challenges in Africa
- 24:11 - Concerns about the industrialization of agriculture in Africa
- 25:52 - Addressing greenhouse gas emissions and electrification in Africa
- 30:37 - The AFR 100 project and land restoration efforts in Africa
- 35:54 - Lessons and advice for young entrepreneurs in the impact and climate change space
For more information on Luni and his impactful initiatives, explore the following links:
- Learn more about Luni Libbes.
- Discover Africa Eats at Africa Eats.
- Explore the global network of impact-oriented accelerators, Fledge, at Fledge.
- Get involved with Realize Impact by visiting Realize Impact.
- Learn about impact investing through The Angel Accelerator at The Angel Accelerator.
- Explore University of Washington's CoMotion and its entrepreneurial ecosystem at University of Washington's CoMotion.
- Discover the work of The Impact Finance Center at The Impact Finance Center.
- Access Luni's insightful "The Next Step" series at The Next Step series.
- Learn about The Pinchot Impact Index and its innovative impact measurement approach at The Pinchot Impact Index.
Don't miss this engaging episode with Luni Libbes, a visionary entrepreneur and impact investor. Use the timestamps to navigate the key points of the discussion and explore these impactful initiatives further.