Explore
The Taste of Africa
Ethiopia’s agriculture sector is the backbone of its economy, yet smallholder farmers face persistent challenges—low bargaining power, volatile markets, and staggering post-harvest losses (up to 33% for fruits and vegetables). Yarashoo Agro-Industry is challenging this.
Since 2020, we’ve bridged the gap between farmers and buyers, cutting out costly intermediaries to increase incomes for producers and affordability for consumers. Now, we’re taking it further: by introducing innovative processing technologies like food drying, we’re reducing waste, creating sustainable jobs, and bringing high-value products (like dried fruits and vegetables) to both local and export markets.
Our work strengthens every link in the chain—from climate-resilient farming to efficient market access—ensuring farmers earn more, urban consumers pay less, and Ethiopia’s agricultural potential is fully realized. With a focus on innovation, equity, and sustainability, Yarashoo isn’t just a business; we’re a catalyst for long-term growth in Africa’s agri-food systems.
Impact at a Glance:
- Higher farmer incomes through direct market linkages
- Reduced food waste (15–33% losses addressed)
- Job creation for youth and rural communities
- Affordable, nutritious products for Ethiopian households
- Export-ready value-added goods to boost national trade
Our Story
Nature’s Bounty, Perfected by Innovation
At Yarashoo, we believe that nature provides the most extraordinary flavors — all we do is preserve and enhance them. Yarashoo means “The Farmer’s” in Amharic, a reminder that everything we do is grounded in the success of the farmers we work with. Through brands like Aifa, Yarashoo is redefining market linkage and agro-processing by helping smallholder farmers increase their productivity, reducing their post-harvest loss, and connecting them to sustainable markets and global value chains; by driving quality, innovation, and shared growth.
Aifa is a proud brand of Yarashoo Agro Industry, an Ethiopian agro-processing company dedicated to empowering farmers, reducing post-harvest losses, and creating vibrant market opportunities.
The name “Aifa” comes from the Gamo people’s phrase “Aifa Aife,” meaning “fruit” — a heartfelt tribute to our partner farmers who nurture the land and harvest its treasures. Through Aifa, we showcase the incredible magic that unfolds when innovation meets nature’s purest gifts.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to bring the explosive flavors of Ethiopia to the world through premium dried fruit products. Every Aifa product carries a story — of careful cultivation, sustainable practices, and the dreams of the farmers who make it all possible.
A Women-Led Force for Change
As a proudly women-led enterprise, we champion gender equality at every level. Today, 90% of our team are women—from field operations to leadership. We believe that investing in women drives sustainable growth, and our success proves it.
Close Partnership with Farmers
At the heart of our model are the farmers we partner with. By shortening the supply chain and directly working with farmers, we ensure fair prices and stable incomes for rural producers. Our direct-market linkage system and climate-smart post-harvest technologies (like solar drying) slash food waste—once as high as 33% for perishable crops—while preserving nutritional value.
Innovation for the Future
From dried fruit snacks to ready-to-cook vegetable mixes, we’re reimagining Ethiopia’s agricultural potential. With EFDA-certified processing and plans to expand into export markets, we’re proving that ethical business can scale.
Sustainable Impact
By minimizing food waste, we not only support farmers in increasing their incomes but also help reduce carbon emissions associated with discarded food. Our comprehensive ESG strategy ensures a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and governance practices that align with global standards. As part of this initiative, we have partnered with Lem Chaka, a local company dedicated to waste recycling. Together, we transform facility byproducts—such as rejects, peels, and seeds—into nutrient-rich compost, which is then returned to the farmers, fostering a more sustainable agricultural cycle.
Founders &
Leadership Team
Roman Worku
Her ability to assess financial risks, implement streamlined processes, and adapt to evolving market conditions has been instrumental in optimizing Yarashoo’s performance. Currently preparing to pursue a Master’s degree in Corporate Finance with a specialization in Investments (2025), Roman holds a BA in Management from Arba Minch University.
Melat Tekaligne
With an MBA from the University of South Africa and a BA in Economics, Melat excels at policy analysis and regulatory compliance, ensuring Yarashoo meets industry standards while building strong relationships with suppliers, regulators, and customers. Her strategic vision focuses on sustainable growth within Ethiopia’s evolving agro-processing sector.
Nasreen M. Adem
Nasreen leads Yarashoo’s fundraising efforts and market expansion strategies, leveraging her extensive network and deep understanding of development finance. Her BA in Economics and MA in Development Management inform her holistic approach to creating sustainable market linkages and advocating for policies that support agricultural innovation.
Talk to us!