Dudutech produces zero-residue biological pest control products that promote environmental safety and long-term sustainability.
Farmers throughout Africa face pressure to increase yields, but the chemical pesticides they use can linger in crops and be ingested by humans, foul waterways, and even reduce crop yield as pests develop resistance. Integrated pest management company Dudutech produces zero-residue biological pest control products targeting insects and disease while promoting environmental safety and long-term sustainability. Launched in 2001, the company employs over 250 full-time staff and operates three production sites that include insectaries and state-of-the-art fungus and nematode production facilities. In conjunction with partners in Kenya, Dudutech launched a range of products targeting growers who farm one acre or less; trials show pest control of greater than 80 percent with yield improvements in excess of 23 percent.
“These challenges are global in nature, affect the entire value chain, and are credible threats to our way of life,” says Dudutech Managing Director Tom Mason. “The Seed Program provided a number of critical tools for our success, including design thinking, enabling our team to understand the needs of our customers.” Future plans call for Dudutech to enter the Mexican market, with a focus on South America to follow.
Leadership
Tom Mason is the managing director of Dudutech, which provides biological pest control solutions to farmers in Africa and around the globe. Previously with Pfizer and Zoetis, Mason joined Dudutech in 2014. He graduated from INSEAD’s Global Executive MBA program in 2019, having completed the McKinsey Management Program in 2018. Mason received a triple bachelor’s degree in labor law, industrial psychology, and management at the University of Cape Town.
Mason participated in the Seed Transformation Program in East Africa in 2017.