Janet Akolo Andaku & Kejand Riscare Innovations

Janet Akolo Andaku is a development practitioner and environmental scientist with extensive experience in grassroots development across North Central Nigeria. As a rural woman herself, she understands the challenges smallholder farmers, particularly women, face in accessing tools, markets, and training to thrive. In 2023, Janet co-founded Kejand Riscare Innovations, a social enterprise dedicated to sustainable agriculture, climate education, and inclusive community empowerment. As CEO/Founder, she plays a key role in shaping the company's strategic direction, management, and operations, bringing her expertise in agricultural processes and modern farming techniques to the business.

Kejand Riscare Innovations strengthens the rice value chain by collaborating with smallholder farmers and women-led cooperatives. The enterprise supports the transition from subsistence farming to profitable agribusiness through climate-smart training, equipment, and market access. By empowering women and providing youth with opportunities for skills development and mentorship, Kejand creates pathways to economic independence while fostering sustainability and innovation in Nigeria's rice industry.

With support from the Giving Joy microgrant (donated by Farish GSD), Janet will strengthen rice processing activities for women-led cooperatives in rural Nigeria. The grant will fund essential tools - including parboiling drums, drying tarpaulins, and basic packaging materials - that will improve product quality, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase earnings for over 20 rural women farmers.

Part of the funding will also be used to develop training materials on safe, hygienic, and climate-smart processing techniques. These resources will equip women with the knowledge and confidence to process rice more efficiently and sustainably, strengthening their role as leaders and entrepreneurs within their communities.

The project will directly benefit 20 rural women farmers by giving them access to improved tools, training, and income-generating opportunities. With better processing techniques and packaging materials, these women will be able to produce higher-quality rice, reduce waste, and earn more from their work.

The ripple effects extend far beyond the farmers themselves. More than 80 family members will gain improved food security and household stability. The initiative will also benefit two rural communities - reaching over 150 people through job creation, higher food quality, and the sharing of new agricultural skills.

By investing in women’s economic empowerment, climate-smart farming, and local value chains, the Giving Joy grant supports Janet’s vision of a more just, sustainable, and food-secure future for rural Nigeria.