Impact investor AgDevCo has announced its successful exit from Saise Farming Enterprises Limited, a key producer of high-quality potato seed in Zambia. The sale of AgDevCo’s equity stake to Buya Bamba Limited, a leading Zambian potato company, is expected to further strengthen the country’s potato industry.
Saise was established in 2016 as a specialised potato seed farm through a partnership between AgDevCo, Buya Bamba, and managing partners. Over the years, the farm has played a significant role in Zambia’s agricultural sector by producing early-generation seed potatoes suited to the local climate. These seeds are grown under licence from Buya Bamba and help support a network of growers across the country.
With 285 hectares of irrigated land in Mbala, Northern Zambia, Saise has contributed to the development of a sustainable potato industry. Its operations have improved seed availability, enhanced yields, and created employment opportunities in the region. By ensuring a reliable local source of high-quality potato seed, Saise has helped drive productivity and food security for many farmers.
Buya Bamba expands its role in Zambia’s potato sector
Following the acquisition, Buya Bamba will take full control of Saise’s operations, continuing its work to develop the country’s potato value chain.
Sean Carey, South Region Managing Director at AgDevCo, expressed confidence in the transition, stating:
“Saise is in excellent hands with Buya Bamba, which has been a partner in this venture from the beginning. We are grateful to our managing partners for their commitment to building Saise into the business it is today. As a proudly Zambian company, Buya Bamba is well-positioned to continue growing the country’s potato industry.”
Anthony Barker, Managing Director of Buya Bamba, welcomed the move, saying:
“The future of Zambia’s potato industry is bright, and this acquisition further strengthens the Zambian potato value chain. We appreciate AgDevCo’s role in jointly developing Saise and taking on the early-stage investment risks of this successful greenfield project.”
AgDevCo continues investment in African agribusiness
AgDevCo’s decision to exit Saise comes as the organisation continues to expand its investment portfolio across Africa. The firm recently closed an $85 million (£66 million) funding round in 2024, reaffirming its commitment to supporting pioneering agribusinesses in Zambia and Sub-Saharan Africa.
The impact investor focuses on sustainable farming and agri-processing businesses, providing both debt and equity financing to drive job creation, improve food security, and stimulate economic growth.
AgDevCo currently manages $340 million (£263 million) in assets and has made over 88 investments to date. Its projects aim to leverage private capital for socially responsible farming initiatives that benefit smallholder farmers and local communities.
With its latest fundraising efforts, AgDevCo is actively seeking new opportunities to invest in Zambia and the wider region, supporting businesses that contribute to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.