Floris Vervaeke

Background

About Floris Vervaeke

I am a seasoned agroecologist and rural entrepreneurship developer with extensive expertise in designing, establishing, and managing complex agri-value chains from start-up to scale. Currently, I serve as the Agronomist Responsible and Operational Coordinator for initiatives surrounding Virunga National Park, North Kivu, DRC. My work involves implementing innovative agroecological methodologies to strengthen smallholder agricultural systems, with a focus on sustainability, ecological integrity, and community resilience. I have successfully led the development of value chains for key crops such as coffee, cacao, oil palm, and wheat, ensuring their alignment with environmental stewardship and economic viability. Previously, as Director of Research and Development at Savonor, I spearheaded projects that improved crop resilience and optimized soil health through advanced sustainable practices. My international experience spans East Africa, Spain, Portugal, Romania, and Australia, where I have integrated regenerative agriculture and cutting-edge technologies to enhance land management and productivity. I specialize in strategic planning, business development, and comprehensive project management, with a proven track record of securing funding and aligning agroecological goals with economic imperatives to advance food security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable rural development.