Recycling, Innovation and Agriculture: The GanaFert Story

Innovation often begins with a simple idea—seeing opportunity where others see waste. For Nana Kusi Appiah, co-founder of GanaFert, that idea has grown into a transformative agribusiness redefining how waste is managed and reused within Ghana’s agricultural sector.

A start-up founded through the Kosmos Innovation Center (KIC) AgriTech programme, GanaFert is turning crop and animal waste into cost-effective, eco-friendly organic fertilizer for crop production—demonstrating the powerful intersection of recycling, innovation, and sustainable agriculture.

From Waste to Value: Rethinking Resource Use

At the heart of GanaFert’s innovation is a simple but impactful concept: waste is not waste—it is a resource. By converting agricultural and animal waste into organic fertilizer, the company is: Reducing environmental pollution, promoting sustainable farming practices, providing farmers with affordable alternatives to chemical fertilizers and supporting improved soil health and long-term productivity. This model not only contributes to agricultural efficiency but also advances a broader conversation on resource recovery and circular economy practices in Ghana.

Innovation Backed by Opportunity

GanaFert’s growth journey has been supported by KIC’s structured innovation pipeline. In 2024, the start-up emerged as one of the winners of the KIC AgriTech Challenge Pro, earning seed funding to accelerate its business development.

Currently part of KIC’s Business Incubation programme, GanaFert continues to benefit from: Capacity building and business development support; Mentorship and advisory services; and Access to networks and growth opportunities. This support has positioned the company to scale its impact and establish itself as a leading player in resource management and recycling within Ghana and beyond.

Entrepreneurship in Action: Beyond One Venture

For Nana, GanaFert is more than just a business—it is a reflection of purpose, innovation, and impact. What began as an idea has evolved into: A solution that supports farmers and agricultural productivity; A business that contributes to job creation; A model for sustainable innovation in waste management. In addition to GanaFert, Nana has also founded Nathemix Recycling, further demonstrating his commitment to environmental sustainability and entrepreneurship. Managing both ventures, he continues to push the boundaries of how recycling and agribusiness can work together to drive change.

A Vision for the Future

With growing demand for sustainable agricultural inputs and increasing awareness of environmental conservation, GanaFert is well-positioned to expand its reach and deepen its impact. Its journey reflects a broader vision—one where: Innovation drives agricultural transformation; Waste becomes a valuable economic resource; and Young entrepreneurs lead solutions to global challenges.

Powering the Next Generation of Innovators

The story of GanaFert is a testament to what is possible when innovation is nurtured, supported, and given the space to grow. Through its programmes, the Kosmos Innovation Center continues to empower young entrepreneurs like Nana Kusi to turn bold ideas into impactful enterprises—creating jobs, strengthening industries, and shaping a more sustainable future.

For Nana, the journey is far from over. What started as a dream is now innovation in action—driving change, creating opportunity, and redefining the future of agriculture in Ghana.