African agribusiness consulting

We are Harm Voortman and Maliyabo de Kwaasteniet. For more than fifteen years, we've been right at the forefront of building stronger, sustainable value chains in Africa's agribusiness sector. Our mission? To offer practical, effective solutions where they’re needed most. That’s why we started P3rsist - a consultancy to share what we've learned and help your business thrive, even in the most challenging situations.

About harm

An attitude of finding a way or making one has been my guiding principle in navigating the complex world of African agribusiness. From leading companies as CEO and CFO to driving growth and drawing in investments, I thrive on turning challenges into opportunities. That’s how I’ve successfully orchestrated the turnaround of African agribusiness SME’s. With a master’s in international economics and business, a background in management accounting, and a stint as an officer in the Royal Netherlands Navy, I bring a blend of strategy, leadership, and resourcefulness to the table. My goal? To help your business not just grow but make a real difference.

About maliyabo

Ever since I was young, solving puzzles was my thing. That curiosity grew into a career of deciphering complex business puzzles, turning data into solutions, and making operations run like clockwork. As COO, I’ve been the force behind the scenes, fine-tuning the machinery of successful businesses. With a sharp focus on performance, I mix analytical thinking with practical management to get things done. Education-wise, I’ve got a master’s in international economics and business and a toolkit of professional certifications. My passion? Fixing problems and seeing businesses flourish.

our approach to business

The term “social business” should not exist. The purpose of business is to solve the problems of people and planet profitably and not profit from creating problems. At the same time, we believe unapologetically in the private sector and the capacity of entrepreneurs, businesses and investors to find answers to making our societies function within planetary boundaries. Let us assist you in building a profitable business and contribute to your sustainable supply chains.

I know Harm and Maliyabo as two business development professionals who speak the language of the factory, the entrepreneur and the financier. This experience is quite unique in this sector and very valuable to have on board.

Koert JansenManaging Director, Incluvest Management Services BV

A dynamic duo that combine inspirational leadership, people skills and exceptional industry experience to add value to forward-looking businesses to be at the cutting edge in their fields of endeavour.

Daniel K.B. InkoomProfessor of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Kumasi, Ghana

Harm and Mali, you have been and will continue to be an inspiration for other cashew processors in Africa including Cajou Espoir, and your impact goes well beyond the walls of Anatrans. Thank you for being our teachers and showing the way for the rest of the industry.

Francois Locoh-DonouPresident & CEO, F5 Inc.

Maliyabo and Harm have a proven track record in developing businesses and sustainable supply chains under difficult circumstances. A value chain perspective and a win-win approach to relationships with suppliers and clients make them successful.

Herman uit de BoschCo-founder/Director FairMatch Support

Maliyabo and Harm provide the experience and clarity required when a business is confronted with complex business challenges. Their deep experience ranges from operational excellence to sustainable value chains to strategic thinking and is of tremendous value to all stakeholders pursuing positive, sustainable results.

Tom KeleherEquity Director, Oikocredit

Harm & Maliyabo know and understand what challenges you face, running a company in challenging and competitive circumstances. They use their vast experience to come to concrete and actionable implementation strategies that will support you in creating a future proof business. If you are not just looking for consultancy advice, but real change, I warmly recommend them.

Stefan BaeckeCEO, Yespers

In-depth business experience, coupled with a humble learning stance, commitment for inclusive and sustainable change and an excellent team spirit make Harm and Maliyabo unique for advice and training engagements.

Rita WeidingerProgram Leader MOVE Market Oriented Value Chains in ECOWAS Region, GIZ

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