Marrien Kalapula Bartels
Founder & CEO
Founder, CEO, and visionary architect of Kalapula Agribusiness Ventures (KAbV). As a sustainability expert with over 15 years of experience, she specialises in the critical intersection of the circular economy, nature-based solutions, and climate action. Marrien’s work is underpinned by a rigorous academic foundation, holding two master’s degrees in urban development and sustainability including one from Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands, with a focus on advancing circularity in agriculture. Born and raised in Samfya, Zambia, and having worked in the Netherlands and with global organisations, she uniquely bridges the gap between international sustainability standards and the intricate realities of rural livelihoods. This fusion of technical mastery and lived experience enables Marrien to design transformative solutions that are globally competitive, yet deeply rooted in local context.
Felix Bartels
Director, Innovation & Tech (CTO)
Leads AgTech innovation at Kalapula Agribusiness Ventures (KAbV). As an IT expert specialising in software development, automation, and artificial intelligence, His work integrates AI, data analytics, and smart technologies to enhance operational efficiency, traceability, and scalability across sustainable agribusiness systems. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Information Systems, combining strong technical expertise with a solid understanding of business processes and systems management. His leadership strengthens KAbV’s digital backbone, positioning the company at the forefront of innovation in sustainable agriculture. At KAbV, he drives the development and deployment of technology-enabled platforms that support climate-smart, resource-efficient, and impact-driven agricultural solutions.
Kalapula M Dennyson
Director Operations (COO)
Oversees all farm operations at Kalapula Agribusiness Ventures (KAbV), bringing decades of practical agricultural experience in both crop and livestock production. He is a highly experienced and passionate farmer, with extensive hands-on expertise in pig farming, having led a successful pig farming cooperative and qualified as a Trainer of Trainers (TOT) in piggery management. His commitment to sustainable livestock production dates back to his national service days in the 1960s, where he served as Manager of the pig production unit. Since then, his dedication to pig farming and sustainable agricultural practices has remained unwavering. He also served as a primary school teacher and retired as a Head Teacher (School Director), demonstrating strong leadership, discipline, and a lifelong commitment to community development.
Selamawit Sebhat
Head of Research & Sustainable Impact
Drives the research, innovation, and partnership strategy Kalapula Agribusiness Ventures. She leads complex research portfolios and secures high-value collaborations with governments, universities, and research institutions, positioning Kalapula within global R&D ecosystems. She also plays a key role in securing new research partnerships and funding streams, further strengthening the organization’s growth and impact. With expertise in sustainability, smart strategies, and nature-based solutions, Selamawit focuses on delivering scalable, impact-driven innovations that enhance climate resilience and agricultural productivity. She holds a Master’s degree in Urban Management and Development from Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands.
Kennedy Kabwe
Farm Manager: Aquaculture Operations
Leads our fish farming and aquaculture operations. He specialises in farm operations, sustainable aquaculture practices, production optimisation, and team coordination. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Aquaculture degree and brings over three years of hands-on experience in fisheries management and fish production. His combination of academic training and practical expertise ensures high farm performance while maintaining environmentally responsible practices. Born and raised in the area, Kennedy has a deep understanding of the local environment, community dynamics, and aquaculture landscape. This local insight enables him to manage operations effectively while building and maintaining strong community relationships.
Kabita Kabita
Grants & Investment Expert
Leads resource mobilisation at Kalapula Agribusiness Ventures, securing strategic grants and investment to support sustainable growth. He is an experienced accountant and financial advisor with over 20 years of expertise in finance, donor-funded programs, and agribusiness development. His career includes work with high-profile institutions such as USAID, UNFPA, and the World Bank. He has played a key role in financial governance for national-scale initiatives, including Zambia’s 2022 Census, ensuring full donor compliance and accountability. Through programs such as USAID EDGE, he has also supported inclusive and climate-smart agribusiness initiatives that strengthen rural livelihoods.
Gideon Sakala
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Oversees financial management, ensuring strong donor compliance and effective stewardship of funds. An experienced INGO Finance Specialist and Accountant, he brings extensive expertise in grant accounting and financial oversight. He has worked with major international donors, including the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), European Union (EU), Irish Aid, Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), and various United Nations agencies. His deep understanding of donor financial regulations ensures grants are managed in full compliance, maintaining donor confidence and strengthening organisational credibility.
OUR NETWORK
