Harvest represents the culmination of efforts where crops are gathered, and the fruits of labor are collected, signifying sustenance, abundance, and the cycle of nature. In agriculture, the importance of preparing for the harvest cannot be underestimated. Let’s take a closer look at the meticulous process that precedes the actual collection of crops. Crop Assessment: […]
Expert Tips for a Bountiful Yield Read More »
Wheat, an everyday staple for millions, has a history as rich as its taste. From the golden fields to your table, this humble grain is a powerhouse of nutrition and has woven itself into the fabric of human civilization. In this article, we delve into ten captivating facts that showcase the incredible world of wheat.
A Peep into the World of Wheat. Read More »
In the ever-changing world of agriculture, a profound shift is taking place—one that acknowledges the significance of sustainability. The days of turning a blind eye to environmental consequences in pursuit of greater yields are now behind us. Today, we are embarking on a fresh perspective that champions sustainability, nurturing the earth while securing prosperity for
Sustainable Agriculture: The Path to a Greener Future Read More »
Are you trying to refresh your body naturally? The humble soybean is your best bet! Soybeans, which are bursting with great nutritional advantages, have the potential to transform your health and well-being completely. In this blog, we will uncover the secrets behind soybeans’ extraordinary ability to transform your body and explore how you can harness
Soybeans: A Nutritional Supercharger for Your Body Read More »
Have you ever wondered about the incredible story of corn, the golden grain that has shaped the agricultural landscape of Africa? From its humble origins to its remarkable cultural significance, corn has an intriguing story to tell. Are you ready to embark on a corn-filled adventure? Join us as we unravel the mysteries and marvels
Crop Spotlight: The Many Shades of Corn in Africa. Read More »
Maize is undoubtedly one of the most vital crops in Nigeria, providing sustenance and livelihoods for millions of farmers. However, its vulnerability to various diseases can pose a significant threat to agricultural productivity. To ensure the continued success of maize farming, it is crucial to understand these diseases and implement preventive measures. In this post,
Protecting Your Maize Crops: Common Diseases and Prevention. Read More »
Picture a world without rice. No mouthwatering party jollof rice, no delightful waakye, no sushi. Unthinkable, right? For over 3.5 billion people worldwide, rice is more than just a staple food – it’s a way of life. But did you know that there’s a lot more to rice than just its delicious taste and filling
Unveiling the Secrets of the World’s Favorite Grain Read More »
Did you know that global food waste is indeed a thing? Did you know that according to Premium Times over 55% of all fruits and vegetables go to waste in Nigeria each year? It’s a shocking statistic that highlights the critical issue of global food waste. While we waste food, many people go hungry, and
Rescuing Food for Improved Food Security Read More »
Have you ever stopped to consider where your food comes from and how it got to your plate? Most of us don’t give it a second thought as we hurry through the grocery store, but the truth is that there’s a lot more to our food than we may realize. That’s why supporting local farmers
Supporting Local Farmers: Why Buying Local Matters. Read More »
Did you know that there are more women in the agriculture space than people care to acknowledge? For many people, when the word “farmer” is mentioned, the image of an elderly male flashes before them. However, according to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development, women accounted for 75% of the Nigerian farming population
What You Didn’t Know about Women in Agriculture. Read More »
Board Director
Board Director
Michael Jainzik is a Principal Sector Economist in KfW Development Bank. From 2001 to 2011 his work focused on investing and managing equity participation in investment funds and banking institutions, and in agricultural finance and microfinance. From 2011 to 2015 he worked as Director of KfW’s office in Windhoek. In this role he helped to manage and develop KfW’s EUR 250 million portfolio in Namibia. From 2015 to 2017 he assumed the position of Head of Corporate Development in Access Microfinance Holding where he was responsible for structuring and managing a merger process between Access Holding and another corporation.
Prior to his role in Babban Gona, Michael has served as a non-executive director in Access Bank Azerbaijan (2006-2011, Chairman), Belarusian Bank for Small Business (2008-2011), Rural Impulse Fund II Luxemburg (2010-2011) and AB Bank Zambia (2011-2016).
Michael has studied Economics and Management at the Universities of Lüneburg and Witten/Herdecke (Germany) and ETEA – Universidad Loyola in Córdoba (Spain) and holds a Master Degree in Economics and Management.
Board Member
Chairman of the Board
Executive Director
Before joining Babban Gona, Lola was the Director for Trust and Safety at OLX Group, working across 30+ OLX markets to ensure that buyers and sellers can transact safely and securely on the platform. Prior to her global role at OLX, Lola was the Country Manager for OLX in Nigeria where she was responsible for driving all elements of the business including Business Development, Product Localization, Marketing and other relevant functions. OLX Group is one of the world’s leading online classifieds players. Through its brands including OLX, Avito, dubizzle and letgo, OLX Group is the home of online classifieds in high-growth markets.
These platforms are the leading destination for buying and selling used goods and services in 30 countries, and the #1 mobile app in its category in more than 20 markets. Globally ~ 11 million items are exchanged through its platforms every single month.
Prior to joining OLX, Lola spent 4 years at Google leading various Product Partnerships efforts across EMEA and Emerging Markets. Lola was one of the earliest Googlers in Sub-Saharan Africa when the technology company began its operations in the region.
Lola shaped the regional strategy, executed on several core initiatives and led business development efforts with key SSA partners including the telcos, OEMs, digital content providers and local entrepreneurs. Lola brings significant leadership experience in business development, entrepreneurship, operational transformation and product development across several industries including technology and financial services.
In addition to Africa, Lola has substantial international working experience in North America, Europe, and Asia. She also worked in the Chicago office of McKinsey & Company, where she spent time advising senior executives on extensive strategic management topics. Lola holds a Doctorate degree in Engineering from the UniversiAnnual Report 2019/2020 ty of California, Berkeley and a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from the University of Virginia. She is happily married with two kids.
Managing Director
Furthermore, he led the development and execution of Notore’s commercial strategy across West and Central Africa, preparing the company to sell one million tons of fertilizer and establish a modern seed business.
He led the effort to raise $130 million in equity and the restructuring of $360 Million in debt. Kola brings significant leadership experience in venture capital, corporate finance, business development, marketing and operations, across four continents with multiple global companies, including GE, Notore and Abiomed. In addition, Kola brings extensive public sector experience as Senior Advisor to the Nigerian Minister of Agriculture.
In recognition for his leadership in driving positive change on the African Continent, he has received several global awards including the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship, a leading leadership institute led by General Collin Powell and appointed to the Board of the African Enterprise Challenge Fund, a $250 Million fund that awards grants and repayable grants to private sector companies to support innovative business ideas in agriculture, agribusiness, renewable energy, adaptation to climate change and access to information and financial services. Kola holds an MBA (Honors) from Harvard and a Masters in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Prior to Babban Gona, Kola was a Managing Director and CEO of a major subsidiary in the Notore Group, one of Nigeria’s leading agricultural conglomerates, where he raised US$24 Million to develop an integrated agricultural trading, production and processing business.
Furthermore, he led the development and execution of Notore’s commercial strategy across West and Central Africa, preparing the company to sell one million tons of fertilizer and establish a modern seed business.
He led the effort to raise $130 million in equity and the restructuring of $360 Million in debt. Kola brings significant leadership experience in venture capital, corporate finance, business development, marketing and operations, across four continents with multiple global companies, including GE, Notore and Abiomed. In addition, Kola brings extensive public sector experience as Senior Advisor to the Nigerian Minister of Agriculture.
In recognition for his leadership in driving positive change on the African Continent, he has received several global awards including the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship, a leading leadership institute led by General Collin Powell and appointed to the Board of the African Enterprise Challenge Fund, a $250 Million fund that awards grants and repayable grants to private sector companies to support innovative business ideas in agriculture, agribusiness, renewable energy, adaptation to climate change and access to information and financial services. Kola holds an MBA (Honors) from Harvard and a Masters in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
