Weaving the Thread of Science in the Fabric of Agriculture: A Spotlight on Naa Ayeley, a young KIC Entrepreneur

In a world where agriculture and technology are becoming increasingly intertwined, Naa Ayeley is leading the charge with innovative solutions that transform post-harvest practices. As a co-founder of Sunify Solardry Technology, a KIC-funded agribusiness startup, she is redefining sustainable food preservation through cutting-edge mobile solar drying technology.

Naa Ayeley started her journey, when she joined the KIC AgriTech Challenge Classic program in 2023. In 2024, her team won at the AgriTech Challenge Pro Final Pitch event, and joined the KIC Incubation program the same year. Through her experience at the KIC program, she founded a start-up with her colleagues to provide solar technology solutions for post-harvest storage.

With a deep understanding of post-harvest challenges, Naa Ayeley and her team are tackling food waste, improving grain quality, and empowering smallholder farmers with affordable and accessible drying solutions. “I was a science student in Senior High School (2016 to 2019) and offered midwifery at the Tertiary level which has all shaped my analytical mindset, but I can boldly say that my experience at Kosmos Innovation Center is what has broadened my perspective on agribusiness and entrepreneurship,” she said.

By harnessing the power of the sun, her innovation reduces spoilage, ensures food security, and creates employment opportunities for young people in the agribusiness space. Her work stands as a testament to the limitless possibilities that science and technology offer in shaping the future of agriculture.

“Through science and innovation, we are converting solar energy into a powerful solution for food preservation. At Sunify Solardry Technology, we bridge technology and sustainability to revolutionize agribusiness,” she adds.

On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate Naa Ayeley’sremarkable journey, one that exemplifies the power of knowledge, innovation, and entrepreneurship in driving sustainable development of many other young women transforming the agricultural sector as well as other industries. As we honor women using science to solve pressing global challenges, we encourage young girls to explore the intersection of STEM and agriculture, knowing that their ideas can shape the future of food security and sustainability.

In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, KIC is committed to providing empowerment to young people through entrepreneurship and innovation within the agricultural sector.