Opportunities for young people in a circular economy: Tekcycle shows the way

Tekcycle Ghana Limited is a KIC-supported agribusiness startup transforming the detergent industry by converting discarded pineapple waste into biodegradable cleaning products.

Co-founded by Najat Hamid Mohammed, the company is driven by innovation and sustainability, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional chemical-based detergents. With a strong focus on promoting a circular economy, Tekcycle is reducing environmental waste while creating economic opportunities, particularly for young women in Ghana.

The team joined the AgriTech Challenge Classic and was coached by the program’s technical team from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). They received USD 20,000 at the final pitch event for their innovation. The KIC Agritech Challenge Pro is an accelerator program aiming to support young entrepreneurs to launch and grow commercially viable, scalable solutions to key problems in the agricultural sector. The program aims to drive technology and innovation as a catalyst to enhance productivity, improve yields, and create more jobs within Ghana’s agricultural sector.

Speaking on the company’s mission, co-founder Najat Hamid Mohammed stated, “At Tekcycle, we see waste as an opportunity. By converting pineapple waste into biodegradable cleaning products, we are not only tackling environmental pollution but also creating sustainable job opportunities for young people in Ghana. With KIC’s support, we are scaling our innovation to promote a cleaner and greener future.”

Through KIC’s mentorship and funding, Tekcycle has expanded its operations, refined its business model, and strengthened its supply chain to reach a broader market. By producing high-performance, eco-friendly detergents, the startup is not only preserving the environment but also fostering economic independence for women entrepreneurs.

As a female-led business, Tekcycle is making a significant impact on women’s empowerment by creating employment opportunities and leadership roles for women in the green economy. Kosmos Innovation Center is actively supporting women-led enterprises like Tekcycle to drive sustainable change within the agricultural sector.

With continuous support from Kosmos Innovation Center and the Mastercard Foundation, Tekcycle is set to lead the way in Ghana’s green innovation movement, proving that sustainability, inclusivity, and business success can go hand in hand.