Think tank for the agricultural sector in Africa

Les Domaines Agricoles is Morocco's largest agricultural group. Employing around 10,000 people, the company produces approximately 200,000 tonnes of fruit and vegetables each year, half of which is exported. However, its agricultural portfolio also encompasses meat, fish, dairy products and plants for cosmetics. The group's diverse portfolio ranges from animal husbandry and tree nurseries to beekeeping and golf resorts, and includes ten of its own research and development centres.

Investments in precision farming and the Internet of Things (IoT)

For three years now, it has also included a start-up hub for the agricultural sector: Domseeds. This is an innovation incubator that aims to promote solutions from Africa for Africa. “There is so much potential in Africa that absolutely needs to be unlocked,” said Maryam Guessous, Domseeds' head, at the Fresh Produce Forum at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2026. 'Many African countries are ready to invest more in their agricultural sector. This requires investment, entrepreneurship, Internet of Things (IoT) start-ups, precision farming, and platforms for optimising value chains."

According to Guessous, Domseeds is based on three pillars: a venture studio that identifies and promotes start-ups and their business cases; a venture capital financing division; and a strategy consultancy that advises on transformation projects and investors. Abdessabour Aboutoufayl, Head of Research and Development at Les Domaines Agricoles, added that Domseeds is also set apart by the fact that they develop practical innovations based on real-world problems to find solutions for the local agricultural economy. Backed by strong expertise and taking a fast-paced, agile approach to development, Domseeds aims to systematically identify, develop and scale solutions in the market in order to achieve real impact for the agricultural sector in Africa.

A recruitment platform for seasonal workers

Although Domseeds is less than three years old, its first start-ups are already on the market. These include YADAG, a recruitment platform for seasonal workers which is now also in use in Canada. Another example is DAGMAO, an interactive platform for maintaining agricultural machinery. Around three dozen start-ups have been or are currently being supported by Domseeds. Seven projects are nearing completion.

“We are looking for start-ups from Morocco and other African countries that want to promote the African agricultural sector with their innovations,” emphasised Maryam Guessous. Having gained extensive experience with start-ups, she has often witnessed those from other regions of Africa struggle due to unfamiliarity with local conditions and an inability to adapt. “Of course, any exchange is welcome. But when you develop your own solutions to your own problems and challenges, you are also creating value in your own space and building self-confidence to generate even more ideas and innovations.”