Analysis & Design
Our Technical Expertise
At Sense, technical excellence is not an accessory—it’s our foundation.
We bring together the sharpest thinkers and practitioners with real experience across African markets. We study what already works, adapt proven models, and execute with the speed, clarity, and discipline of the private sector. Because of this, the solutions we develop don’t just look good on paper—they withstand real-world pressures and remain viable in fragile, fast-changing economies.
Value Chain
Analysis
We map the entire flow from farm to fork to identify exactly where value is leaking—whether it's post-harvest loss or inefficient logistics—and where the margin opportunity lies.
Market
Research
We don't guess what customers want; we go to the shelf. We conduct deep trade visits and consumer analysis to solve the "aisle problem" and define the right packaging and price points.
Business
Modelling
We build the financial architecture for scale. We model unit economics to ensure that mechanization investments actually reduce the cost per kilogram and deliver a viable break-even point.
Food Safety
& Certification
We implement the quality systems required for trust. We define the technical standards for "Zero Grit" purity, helping processors achieve the certifications needed to supply premium buyers and export markets.
Market Development
Strategies
We design the route-to-market. We help companies pivot from low-volume retail visibility to high-volume commercial channels (Wholesalers, HoReCa) that drive cash flow.
Adult Learning
& Training
We turn staff into skilled operators. We design training programs that improve staff retention and ensure workers can consistently operate mechanical dryers and washing stations.
Business coaching
& Support
We support the entrepreneur, not just the factory. We coach leaders on negotiating better trading terms, managing working capital, and navigating the transition from artisanal to industrial management.
Access to
Finance
Using business modelling to demonstrate commercial sense and helping financial institutions design appropriate products
Meet Our Team Rooted in Africa, Powered by Experience. Driven by Purpose.
At Sense, we bring together a team of strategists, economists, learning designers, and food systems experts – each committed to building stronger, more inclusive food economies across Africa.
We combine private sector rigour with deep development experience, working alongside enterprise, funders, and technical professionals to run insight into impact.
Leadership Team
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Michiel Arnoldus
Founder & CEOMichiel brings a private sector mindset to development challenges. As founder of Sense, he has let...
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Kerry Kyd
Senior Partner, Strategy & NetworksWith a background spanning global brands and African food systems, Kerry leads Sense’s work on...
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Kundai Chibarabada
Finance & Systems LeadKundai Chibarabada is an accountant and financial advisor with over 15 years of experience. She...
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Chantal Hammer
Director, Learning DivisionChantal is a curriculum design specialist with over 20 years of experience in education. She leads...
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