This article was developed and published under the YourVCCA initiative. You can access the full version on the YourVCCA website here.
To address the high rates of post-harvest food loss in Nigeria, YourVCCA has launched an innovative new pilot: Smart Cool Markets.
Developed in collaboration with ColdHubs and LeapEnergy, the pilot integrates solar-powered cold storage with the Coldtivate® app to create a digitally connected cold chain marketplace. This new feature allows farmers and cooling service providers to track stock levels and shelf life in real time, thanks to sensor-linked digital twins, while buyers can access accurate produce availability and make digital payments directly through the app.
The idea came to life over multiple visits to markets where the Coldtivate app was used by farmers and cold room operators, such as Lagos’ Mile 12 market, where improvements linked to the increased access to cold storage, thanks to the Cooling-as-a-Service model, where in some cases canceled out by the lack of certainty regarding the sales of stored crops. Indeed, meeting with local traders revealed the high perceived risks of paying to store produce that may remain unsold.
During a conversation with a young merchant, Musa, the idea of selling crops online the same way local communities shop on platforms like Jumia or Kong arose, shaping the vision behind Smart Cool Markets. Therefore, this latest feature of the Coldtivate® app transforms cold rooms into fully functional sales points. Developed with support from the Swiss REPIC platform, the feature allows farmers to list produce for sale immediately upon arrival at the cold room. Buyers can view available stock, see the remaining shelf life calculated using sensor data and scientific models, and complete purchases digitally. In some cases, delivery options are also available through partnerships with local logistics providers.
By linking reliable cold storage with digital marketplace capabilities, Smart Cool Markets empowers farmers to reduce food waste, access fairer prices, and increase income. It also improves transparency and trust in transactions, strengthens supply chain resilience, and supports data-driven decision-making for all market actors.
Importantly, the model is designed to be inclusive. Farmers without smartphones can still participate, thanks to trained cold room operators who manage listings and assist with digital transactions on their behalf. The app is also available in Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, ensuring accessibility across diverse user groups.
The feature benefits everyone in the ecosystem. Farmers gain new selling channels and reduced post-harvest losses. Buyers can access fresh, traceable produce more easily. Cooling companies benefit from increased usage of their infrastructure, helping them generate steady revenue and maintain operations.
With plans to engage over 1,800 stakeholders and prioritise women’s participation, the pilot is expected to reduce food loss by at least 30 percent and increase farmer earnings through improved market access and efficiency.
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