Nigerian technology firm, OmoAlata, has emerged as the winner of the Best FoodTech Startup category at the 2019 Global Startup Awards held in China.
With over 100,000 nominations received across the world, the Nigerian startup came top in its category, beating strong contenders from Finland, China, South Africa, and Indonesia, amongst others.
OmoAlata, which means “the satchet of salt” in Yoruba language, was founded in 2012 by Kasope Ladipo-Ajai and produces a range of locally sourced Nigerian spices, which it sells in customised branded sachets. The company’s products include pepper blends, herbs, and spices, which are sold in markets, supermarkets and via electronic commerce channels.
Speaking on the award win, Kasope Ladipo-Ajai said, “We are thrilled to have won this prestigious award. It is a testament to the hard work our team has put in over the years and the impact we are making in reviving the traditional spice business in Nigeria.”
OmoAlata has been expanding its reach in recent years thanks to investment from venture capital firms and international organizations. The company aims to increase the availability of its products across Nigeria and to export to countries such as the United States.
Their win at the Global Startup Awards comes as a praise-worthy recognition of the impact of Nigerian startups on the global tech scene, and the role of technology in promoting African businesses in general. OmoAlata and its founder, Kasope Ladipo-Ajai, are now expected to inspire young entrepreneurs in Nigeria and beyond to pursue their dreams in the technology sector.
