Mouahié Kouassi is a young entrepreneur and the founder of Agrikraft, a thriving cosmetics business in Côte d’Ivoire that specializes in the production of shea butter-based skincare and haircare products.
Born and raised in the country, Kouassi grew up witnessing the economic struggles faced by local farmers and their families. As a result, she was inspired to create a business that could not only generate revenue but also support the livelihoods of small-scale farmers and promote sustainable agriculture.
Agrikraft’s products are made from high-quality shea butter sourced from local farmers, which is then transformed into luxurious creams, lotions, and haircare products. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of natural, eco-friendly ingredients and its efforts to reduce waste and carbon emissions throughout the production process.
In recognition of her innovative business model and commitment to sustainability, Kouassi was awarded the prestigious Pierre Castel Prize in 2022. The prize, which is funded by the Castel Group, is awarded annually to young African entrepreneurs who are making a positive impact in their communities. Kouassi was selected from a pool of hundreds of applicants and received a cash prize of 10 million CFA franc, which she plans to invest in expanding her business and supporting local farmers.
The Pierre Castel Prize recognizes not only Kouassi’s entrepreneurial skills but also the potential of Agrikraft to create positive social and environmental change.
By promoting sustainable agriculture and supporting the economic empowerment of local farmers, Kouassi and her team are making a valuable contribution to the development of Côte d’Ivoire’s economy and society as a whole.
By Elijah Christopher
