Velache Coker

Born in Moyamba Town, Sierra Leone, Velache Coker was determined to become a professional footballer. But after some false starts, he found himself pursuing entrepreneurship. While spending some time in The Gambia with his family, Velache became aware of the shortage of farmers within the country and vowed to change the agricultural landscape in his home country, Sierra Leone.

By the age of 19, Velache had started 3 businesses. Most of them have been discontinued, but one remains – Canaan Farm.

Canaan Farm is an agribusiness and distribution company with two branches that grow various produce (watermelon, okra, cassava, etc.). They distribute these products to homes, hotels and restaurants. He also has an additional venture called Abacha, which is an online marketplace enabling consumers to purchase various products through the platform. To achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG) of Zero Hunger, Canaan Farm is creating a long-lasting ecosystem for healthy produce and digital shopping.

The company currently employs 10 people full time and 38 on a part-time basis. As the man who drives the vision, mission and strategic outcomes, Velache is determined to see every Sierra Leonean go to bed with a full belly.