Executive Summary

Na Nyosi was established in 2017, beginning our journey in beekeeping with just one hive in our backyard. Due to growth and community safety concerns, we initially expanded to six hives but faced challenges that necessitated a downscale, ultimately leading to some hive collapses. To overcome these obstacles, we reached out to the local chief and were granted access to a designated piece of land for our operations, with mutually agreed upon payment arrangements in place. We are seeking funding to develop the allocated land, which spans approximately 38 hectares. Our immediate goal is to cultivate 5 hectares, expanding by an additional 5 hectares each year as our operations grow. We plan to focus primarily on onion cultivation, alongside other crops based on market demand, providing us with a diverse portfolio and resilience against fluctuations in the market. Na Nyosi has conducted thorough market research and secured letters of agreement with pivotal agencies. Our collaboration with the Economic Development And Spatial Planning - Fresh Produce Market Division indicates an excellent opportunity for growth, especially by supporting informal traders from our local municipality and neighboring areas in the District. We are proposing a capital investment of $45,754.32 (R800,000.00) aimed at enhancing infrastructure development, addressing operational needs, and providing necessary operational funding. This investment will play a crucial role in supporting our ongoing growth and efficiency. Na Nyosi is a fully black-owned company, with half of its ownership held by women. Currently, the company employs two individuals: one manages the finance and field operations, while the other focuses on technical and field responsibilities. We have recently experienced the unfortunate loss of our other hives due to space constraints. While we were steadily growing in terms of revenue, we have now faced a decline. This setback has impacted our operations and overall progress. Na Nyosi is actively engaged in the agriculture sector, focusing on sustainable farming practices that promote environmental stewardship. In addition to agricultural production, the organization is involved in the processing of food product, ensuring that they meet high-quality standards through equipment and techniques. Furthermore, Na Nyosi is committed to food safety, implementing rigorous safety protocols and quality control measures to guarantee that all food items are safe for consumption and free of contaminants. Their comprehensive approach not only supports local farmers but also enhances the overall food supply chain.