As a move to combat food waste and environmental degradation, a social impact startup, Didiya has launched a platform to redistribute surplus inventory.
Nigeria faces a daunting dual challenge food waste and food insecurity. While millions struggle to access nutritious meals, the country’s food waste contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.
The aim of the startup was to bridge the staggering gap between food waste and hunger in Nigeria, said the Co-founded of the platform James Udom.
According to Udom, the platform was born out of a simple idea to turn waste into valuable resources for communities.
He said with over 40% of food produced in Nigeria going to waste, and millions facing hunger daily, they are committed to making a difference.
The solution, he explained that the platform connects vendors with consumers, offering surplus inventory at discounted rates, saying the model not only reduces waste but also provides communities with affordable access to essential goods, addressing both sustainability and food security challenges.
He said: “Vendors can list items nearing their shelf life or overstocked products at a fraction of the original price, reducing waste and supporting community needs.
“By cutting down on waste, Didiya helps lower the carbon footprint associated with food disposal, contributing to a more sustainable future.
“The platform ensures that more people have access to affordable food and goods, enhancing food security and community well-being.
He further stated that by tackling surplus inventory redistribution, the platform offers a two-pronged approach which reduces Waste, by connecting vendors with consumers, and Food Security by providing affordable access to essential goods.