Mahesh Patel, the Executive Chairman of Export Trading Group (ETG) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is a name synonymous with agricultural transformation in Africa. His journey from humble beginnings to leading one of Africa’s largest agribusiness conglomerates is not just a story of business success but also of a philanthropist, with vision and societal impact.
Under his leadership, ETG has grown into a powerhouse, with operations in 36 countries and over 6,600 employees. Today, he is the largest supplier of toor dal to India and his company is a global leader in pulses, sesame and raw cashew nuts. His commitment to philanthropic initiatives, including the founding of the AITST Foundation, reflects his dedication to societal advancement.
Born in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1944, Mahesh’s early life was influenced by his father, Raojibhai, who moved to Kenya in 1950 and established a small grocery store. From his mother, Shanti Laxmiben, Mahesh learned the values of faith, unity and service, which would later shape his philanthropic endeavors.
Mahesh’s educational journey led him to Sardar Patel University in Gujarat, India, where he studied Accounting and Business. Despite initially lacking interest in academics, his perspective changed with a friend’s advice, leading him to graduate in 1976. He then returned to Nairobi, where he assumed the role of CFO at Export Finance Company, later restructured as Export Trading Company Limited.
Under Mahesh’s leadership, ETG Farmers Foundation became a key player in Africa’s agricultural transformation. His mantra, “If farmers grow, we grow too,” underscores his commitment to farmer prosperity. He redirected the company towards sourcing and marketing local agricultural commodities, supporting organizations like UNICEF and the World Food Programme with staple grains.
Mahesh is more than an agricultural industrialist. He believes in sharing knowledge and experience to inspire others. His values of integrity, faith, respect, kindness and generosity are pillars of his success. He encourages youth to stay focused, persevere and be passionate about their pursuits.
Today, ETG is a model of fastest growing agriculture that is sourcing regional food within Africa, with operations in 36 countries and more than 6600 employees. Mahesh’s ethos of giving back is reflected in ETG’s support for local farmers and communities, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive approach to agriculture.
Mahesh’s journey embodies the transformative power of entrepreneurship and philanthropy in shaping Africa’s agricultural landscape. His legacy inspires future generations to embrace service, leadership and innovation for societal transformation.
Mahesh Patel’s impact on African agriculture and society is undeniable. He also founded the African International Technology for Societal Transformation (AITST) Foundation in 2016. His commitment to farmer prosperity and sustainable practices has not only transformed ETG into a powerhouse in the agribusiness sector but has also set a standard for ethical and impactful business practices in Africa. AITST represents a pivotal initiative in leveraging technology to address societal challenges, particularly in the context of agriculture in Africa. This innovative approach recognizes the transformative potential of technology in enhancing agricultural productivity, sustainability and the overall well-being of communities. AITST’s focus extends beyond traditional agricultural practices, incorporating advanced technologies such as precision agriculture, data analytics and remote sensing to optimize resource management, improve crop yields and mitigate environmental impact. By harnessing the power of technology, AITST aims to empower farmers with knowledge and tools to enhance their livelihoods, promote economic growth and foster sustainable development across the African continent. Through strategic partnerships, research collaborations, and capacity-building initiatives, AITST is at the forefront of driving positive change and unlocking the full potential of African agriculture for the benefit of present and future generations.
Mahesh Patel’s life is a testament to the fact that one person can make a significant difference. His dedication to improving the lives of African farmers and his commitment to sustainable agriculture have not only transformed ETG into a global leader but have also helped countless individuals and communities thrive. As we look to the future, his story serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the power of vision, perseverance and compassion in creating positive change in the world.
