ARISE IIP Secures Africa’s First ProTerra Soy Certification
Paving the Way for Responsible Farming and Sustainable Trade Across the Continent
Cotonou, Benin – ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), a pan-African developer and operator of world-class industrial zones, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone: its subsidiary, Benin Agri Business, is the first in Africa to obtain the ProTerra Level III Certification, a globally recognized standard for environmental sustainability and social responsibility in agriculture.
This certification marks a historic moment for Africa’s soybean sector. By meeting the ProTerra Standard rigorous criteria, ARISE IIP positions Benin Agri Business as a leading supplier of non-GMO, responsibly sourced soybean products—including soybean meal, oil, lecithin, and whole soybeans—ready for discerning global markets.
A Landmark in African Agro-Industrial Development
The certification process included a full end-to-end traceability audit conducted by FoodChain ID, spanning social and environmental safeguards across the entire supply chain:
- Farmers and suppliers were evaluated under Level I – Agricultural Production
- Benin Agri Business was audited under Level II – Transport, Storage, Traders & Dealers
This thorough review confirms that production adheres to key principles such as climate-smart agriculture, zero deforestation, fair labor practices, and ecosystem protection.
Empowering Farmers as Partners in Sustainability
Empowering farmers lies at the heart of ARISE IIP’s approach to sustainability. Through a comprehensive 360-degree support model, Benin Agri Business equips its network of producers with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive. This includes continuous technical training, on-the-ground advisory services, and access to demonstration farms that showcase best practices in sustainable agriculture. Farmers also benefit from a dedicated expert call center for timely guidance, as well as ARISE’s proprietary digital platform, AFIS, which allows for real-time crop monitoring, full traceability, and compliance verification. This farmer-first model ensures that producers are not merely suppliers, but co-creators of a resilient and responsible agricultural ecosystem, reaping direct gains in productivity, market access, and income security.
Technology-Enabled Traceability and Trust
ARISE IIP’s AFIS digital platform provides end-to-end traceability, monitoring crops from planting to harvest to final delivery. This system not only enhances transparency for international buyers but also verifies compliance with sustainability standards, including deforestation-free sourcing. These claims are independently validated by Okala, a recognized third-party audit firm.
Unlocking Market Access and Visibility for Benin
With Africa’s first ProTerra-certified soybean meal now entering European markets, ARISE IIP is opening new doors for Benin’s agricultural exports. This milestone increases the country’s global visibility and credibility as a supplier of sustainable commodities, while demonstrating that African agriculture can meet and exceed international expectations when supported by strategic investments and partnerships.
A Vision for the Future
This achievement is more than a certification—it’s a blueprint for what’s possible. ARISE IIP’s integrated approach proves that sustainable sourcing from Africa is not only feasible—it’s already underway. As more global buyers seek transparent and responsible supply chains, ARISE IIP is proud to be at the forefront, leading by example and catalyzing inclusive growth across the continent.