As the founder and CEO of AgroEnterprise Mission, Nilza works to strengthen women-led farming, cooperative development and practical agricultural training across African rural communities.
Her work connects sustainable agriculture, water access, bookkeeping skills and community-based production. Through direct engagement with women farmers, farmer associations and local cooperatives, AgroEnterprise Mission supports rural communities in building more resilient and productive farming systems.
Nilza’s background in agriculture, commodity trading and women’s economic development shapes the organisation’s practical approach to long-term rural growth.
AgroEnterprise Mission and its partners export high-quality agricultural products from Africa to buyers around the world.
Our community programmes are funded by the profits from our commercial export business. Every time a buyer purchases our raw cash crops, a percentage of that profit goes into the communities we support.
This means our community work is not at risk when funding rounds close. It grows as our trade grows. And it achieves its purpose when a community has the skills, the businesses and the confidence to build their future.
Our Partners
AgroEnterprise Mission works in close partnership with established agricultural cooperatives.
the Mission
As CEO of AgroEnterprise Mission, I lead efforts to empower women in rural Africa through sustainable agriculture and financial training. Our mission drives lasting impact through self-reliance, community development and clean-water solutions.
A former World Bank Lead Agricultural Economist with nearly three decades of experience in global commodity markets, agricultural strategy, and development policy. Holding a PhD in Agricultural Economics from the University of Illinois, he is a recognized expert in cocoa, coffee, and cashew economics, providing strategic advice to governments and private enterprises. He also brings hands-on production experience as the owner of an agricultural plantation in Côte d’Ivoire.
A seasoned development economist and former Director of Agriculture at the African Development Bank, where he led the Feed Africa Strategy. He now leads APDC, empowering over 7,000 youths and 1,000 women in agribusiness, and holds a PhD in Development Economics with 30+ years’ experience.
A committed horticulturist and educator championing women’s empowerment through sustainable farming, literacy and entrepreneurship since 1992. Her leadership spans national training programmes, international exchanges and grassroots agroecology.
Brings broad experience in cooperative leadership, transit management and commercial operations. He has held senior roles including General Manager of the Sélinkela and CAEKO cooperatives and of several transit and trading companies, and trained at the Central Polytechnic Center in Yamoussoukro (CPC).
With over 40 years advancing sustainable farming and rural development. A leader in agricultural policy and innovation, he advocates for food security, environmental stewardship and farmer empowerment.
Now a Cashew Consultant for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). With more than 33 years’ experience, he continues to shape Guinea-Bissau’s agricultural landscape, focusing on the cashew sector and rural development.
An experienced Agricultural Technician trained in rural extension who coordinates key initiatives for women farmers and rice producers. His work focuses on community land rights, agricultural development and rural water hygiene and sanitation.
A Petrochemical Engineer and Environmental Specialist with deep expertise in climate change, biodiversity and sustainable development. He consults on environmental impact, renewable energy and climate-resilience projects across West Africa.
Leads the HR function at AgroEnterprise Mission, fostering a supportive, inclusive and high-performing environment. She champions staff development, manages recruitment and ensures every team member is empowered to contribute to our mission.
A trained agronomist and trainer specialising in perennial crops, with 13 years’ experience at organisations including Barry Callebaut and Cemoi. He designs and delivers training across coffee, cocoa, rubber and palm-oil systems, with added expertise in organic rice production, curriculum development and farmer mentorship.
Oversees daily operations in Guinea-Bissau, ensuring programmes run smoothly from planning to execution. With a strong eye for logistics and a deep commitment to community impact, he coordinates teams, resources and timelines to keep our initiatives thriving.
Leads initiatives to empower women through sustainable horticultural practices. With a strong commitment to community development, she works to improve agricultural productivity, enhance food security and foster economic independence for local women farmers.
Leads marketing and communications strategy, strengthening brand visibility and global engagement. Through strategic campaigns and digital outreach he amplifies our mission and expands partnerships supporting women’s empowerment and sustainable agriculture.
Spearheads marketing and communications, crafting stories that amplify our impact and connect with audiences worldwide. Through strategic campaigns and compelling content, he raises awareness, builds our brand and strengthens engagement with supporters and partners.
Connect With Us
Purchase our products through AgroEnterprise Mission and its partners. Every purchase contributes to community development through our profit model.
Organisations, development institutions and sector experts who want to contribute to our community programmes are welcome.