At 30 years old, Adji Yacine Sylla is turning a little-known local fruit into a product with global potential. Together with her husband, Ibrahima Sylla, a senior technician in the agri-food industry, she founded Mouhidine Transformation Agroalimentaire (MTA) in Ndofane, Kaolack. Their mission is to make Senegal a pioneer in plant-based innovation by transforming the Dimb fruit (Cordyla pinnata) into a nutritious, sustainable alternative to meat.
“Our goal is to turn this overlooked fruit into a superfood for vegetarian, vegan, and environmentally conscious consumers,” Yacine explains. “We want to prove that innovation can come from Africa, using African resources, to reach the world.”
The inspiration for MTA came from a simple observation. Every year, tons of Dimb fall to the ground and rot, even though the fruit is rich in protein and nutrients. At the same time, global demand for plant-based alternatives is growing rapidly, yet African producers remain largely absent from this market. “We saw a chance to combine our technical skills with local resources and make a real social impact in Kaolack,” she says.
Turning this vision into a real business required more than technical expertise. Joining the Kosmos Innovation Center program proved transformative. “Before the program, we focused only on the technical quality of our plant-based meat,” Adji Yacine recalls. “The coaches taught us that your product is not enough. Your story matters just as much. We learned to pitch our vision, understand our customers, and develop resilience. Every ‘no’ became a step toward the ‘yes’ that changes everything.”
Starting a business in a rural area came with many challenges. Infrastructure was limited, electricity was unstable, and access to funding was scarce. “With or without resources, we told ourselves we would do it,” she says. “Waiting for money before starting is the surest way to never begin. Lack of resources did not stop us. It made us more creative, more determined, and more authentic. We learned to make the most of what we had and to rely on our skills, our land, and our community.”
Since completing Kosmos Innovation Center program, MTA has grown steadily. The company clarified its business model, strengthened its networks with investors and distributors, and increased visibility. The team also won fourth prize in a major competition along with 3 million FCFA. For Yacine, the real reward is the impact on her community. “Hearing young people say, ‘Because of you, I believe I can succeed too,’ is our true victory,” she says.
Looking ahead, MTA plans to equip its processing unit, launch products locally in Kaolack, expand to Dakar and other major cities, and begin exporting internationally. The company also aims to create local jobs and inspire other entrepreneurs. The long-term vision is to make MTA the African leader in Dimb-based plant meat.
Reflecting on the journey, Yacine says, “This experience has shown us that innovation starts with vision and persistence. Real impact comes from connecting your work to the needs around you. Every small step matters, and every challenge shapes the strength to keep moving forward.”
From a rural village to the international stage, Adji Yacine Sylla and MTA show how dedication, creativity, and belief in local resources can transform potential into progress. Their story inspires others to imagine what is possible for Africa’s future.