Meet Brian Kiprotich
We are excited to introduce yet another Rootical Founder-in-Residence: Brian Kiprotich. Take a deep dive into his story, uncovering who he is, what motivated him to start his own business, and the remarkable journey he has embarked upon thus far.
Preamble
The heart of regenerative agriculture lies at a network of connections, linking farmers committed to organic practices with suppliers providing essential solutions for their growth. Brian Kiprotich, has dedicated himself to facilitating these crucial connections with Ecologic, and solving the challenge of making effective and affordable organic inputs available across Uganda.
His journey began with extensive research at Makerere University while pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural and Rural Innovation. As a founder with Rootical venture studio, Brian developed a deeper understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by farmers committed to organic farming practices. Through countless conversations and field visits, he gained invaluable insights into the intricate dynamics of the industry.
Brian Kiprotich on the left, with his co-founder Innocent Ociti on the right.
“The Rootical boot camp was an eye opener that created a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the food system in Uganda today. For example, the issue of synthetic farming with all these chemical inputs.” said Brian.
Entrepreneurial Journey
During the early days of his career, Brian worked with Post Bank and Centenary bank as an agricultural loans officer where he developed a deep understanding of farmers' needs in his community at the foot of Mount Elgon. He further worked with Pula, an agri-insurance company, where he managed projects with coffee farmers, sunflower growers and maize growers. At the peak of his career, Brian chose to enroll with Rootical venture studio, where Ecologic was birthed.
“Promoting regenerative farming practices to address low productivity while protecting the environment and our health, is the driving factor that pushed me to create a business that links farmers to organic input solutions,” said Brian.
Brian Kiprotich co-founded Ecologic, an agent-based network company that solves for the sales and distribution of organic inputs.
“By empowering farmers with knowledge and resources, we will foster an expansive community committed to Agroecology,” Brian added.
Brian on the left, Innocent, at the center (the co founders of Ecologic) at Rootical pitch day, with Isaac the venture builder lead (on the right).
Future prospects
Beyond pursuing business success, Brian finds fulfilment in knowing that his work will be making a tangible difference in the lives of farmers and the health of the plants and soils. He envisions a future where regenerative agriculture is the norm in Uganda.
“In the next 6 years, I envision Ecologic becoming a leading company where people in Uganda and beyond come to learn about agroecology, and farmers across Uganda having fully embraced organic farming solutions.” Brian concludes.
