Digital Mobile Africa

Digital Mobile Africa (DMA) is a Tanzanian-based AgriFintech company aiming to commercialize and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Africa. Founded by Rob Madziva and Lawrence Rusere, the company operates a data-driven platform that provides digital solutions for the agricultural and financial technology sectors. Madziva, who holds degrees in agribusiness and computing science, was inspired by his farming family background to merge agriculture and technology to address food insecurity and financial exclusion among rural farmers.

DMA's core offering is a digital ecosystem that connects farmers with essential services. The platform functions as a rural e-commerce and marketplace, allowing farmers to purchase agricultural inputs, access financing, and sell their produce. This is facilitated through a network of last-mile "Village Digital Agent" (VIDA) networks who are equipped with mobile technology, such as devices from Famoco certified by Mastercard, to manage transactions, profile farmers, and collect data securely. By digitizing the agricultural value chain, DMA brings efficiency, transparency, and trust to a traditionally cash-based and fragmented market.

The company's business model involves taking orders for farm inputs directly from farmers, which are then fulfilled by suppliers on the platform. It also facilitates the sale of produce, with payments processed through a mobile money wallet linked to the platform. This system creates valuable data, which DMA leverages for services like credit scoring and business intelligence for financial service providers, mobile network operators, and FMCG companies. Initially focusing on Tanzania, Rwanda, and Zambia, DMA aims to expand its agent network significantly to create jobs and make agriculture a more attractive venture for youth.

Keywords: AgriFintech, smallholder farmers, financial inclusion, digital marketplace, Africa, agricultural value chain, mobile payments, data analytics, supply chain management, rural e-commerce, farmer financing, agribusiness, last-mile distribution, food security, AgTech, mobile technology, credit scoring, Tanzania