Background

Melkam Farms is a social enterprise created out of conviction and determination to see Ethiopia’s agricultural industry become organic, sustainable and profitable for all stakeholders in the supply chain. It is situated on a 13 hectare plot of land near a town called Butajira, in the southern region of Ethiopia.

In June, 2019, we started operations to grow a food forest that maximizes productivity while simulating symbiotic relationships in the ecosystem. Located 116 KMs away from Addis Ababa, Melkam Farms aims to become a model for sustainable farming. 

Melkam Farms supplies fruits, vegetables and spices to the local and international market. It supplies to wholesalers, retailers as well as restaurants. 

How it all began…

Our story begins when our Founder and CEO, Berket Nega, relocated to his homeland Ethiopia in 2016 from the US, where he grew up. His move was accompanied by determination to give to his community and become an agent of positive change. 

Berket studied Biology at James Madison University in Virginia, to pursue a career in Healthcare as a medical provider. After graduation, he began to develop a sense of responsibility for the community where his father was raised, especially towards the children in. “I feel blessed for the childhood I had and very grateful for the sacrifices my father and forefathers have made,” Berket says, “I believe that having a good childhood is foundational for someone to grow into a whole person and a responsible citizen.” 

Berket arrived in Ethiopia in 2016 looking for an opportunity where his career could meet his longing to give back. Looking at the agricultural sector, he was convinced of the potential of the industry to transform Ethiopia’s economic status and the opportunity it availed to reach out to people at the grassroots. 

Confident that Ethiopia can become a symbol of natural and sustainable products, Berket set out to make his mark starting with a plot of land named Melkam.