Ghanaian Agritech Founder Isaac Sesi Discusses Lessons from Farming and Startup Journey

Isaac Sesi, founder and CEO of Ghana‑based agritech firm Sesi Technologies, spoke to The Gist House in Nairobi on July 26 about his journey from a farming childhood to building tools that reduce post‑harvest losses.

Background and motivation

Sesi grew up working on his parents’ farm and later studied engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, where a project measuring grain moisture linked his technical skills to agricultural needs. He says the experience taught him that “a clever invention is not enough” if farmers cannot afford it.

“If a farmer can’t afford the technology, no amount of logic changes that,” Sesi explained.

Business focus and challenges

Sesi Technologies develops devices such as the GrainMate moisture meter and hermetic storage bags aimed at small‑holder agribusinesses. While the products often reach agribusinesses rather than individual farmers, the impact trickles down to the farmer, he notes.

“The farmer may never know I exist, yet still benefit from it,” he said.

He acknowledges that pricing and business models are as critical as the technology itself. “We spent time and money building something smallholder farmers might never be able to afford,” Sesi recalled.

Personal reflections

A turning point came after a candid conversation with an adviser from Uganda, who warned him not to “snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.” The advice prompted Sesi to refocus on sustainable growth rather than accolades.

“People will write about you and say nice things, but when you come back, it’s you and the business,” he said.

Sesi admits to being indecisive and strives to improve decision‑making under uncertainty. He remains driven by personal standards, stating that the only person he still seeks to impress is himself.

When asked about Africa’s ambition to “feed the world,” Sesi cautioned that the slogan is often rhetoric, emphasizing the need for practical actions, better value chains, and policies that make local production competitive.

Looking ahead, Sesi says he would continue working in engineering even without a startup, building technology solutions for others.

As of this interview, Sesi Technologies continues to refine its products and market approach, with no immediate announcements of new funding or partnerships.