ABOUT
VegBox Horticulture – Sustainable, Community‑Centred Farming in southern Ethiopia
At VegBox Horticulture , we farm with nature, not against it. Our regenerative methods restore soil health, preserve biodiversity, and protect precious water resources. But sustainability for us means more than farming—it's about people.
By building a road and a local school, we intend to strengthen our community, and we’re now constructing a water canal to support nearby smallholder farmers.
By combining ecological responsibility with social commitment, VegBox Horticulture is growing a better future—from the ground up.
VegBox Horticulture is proud to be GLOBALG.A.P. Integrated Farm Assurance (IFA), GRASP and Food Security Standard (FOSSEM Advanced) certified, three rigorous third‑party audited recognition of our commitment to food safety and security, environmental stewardship, worker welfare, human rights and full traceability from field to table. These internationally recognized standards reinforce our dedication to sustainable, responsible farming practices that benefit our community and the planet.
Lutz Hartmann
Founder and General Manager
Lutz is one of the founders of FruitBox Africa. He is both a German and French qualified lawyer with extensive experience in investments in Africa. Lutz is a member of the Board of the German African Business Association and a frequent speaker at investment and impact conferences.
Gezahegn Gamo
General Manager
Gezahegn Gamo is Co-General Manager. He is graduated from Hawassa University in Accounting and Finance (M.Sc.) and has extensive work experience in the field of Financial Management. Gezahegn is a member of the Accounting Association of Ethiopia and licensed as authorized Chief Financial Officer in Ethiopia.
Ekki Sperling
COO
Ekkehard Sperling is a German-trained farmer and horticulturalist. He has lived in Ethiopia for many years and has extensive practical experience in agricultural production and consulting. He oversees our production and ensures that the crops we grow meet international quality and standards.
Tibebu Tilahun
Finance / Admin Manager
Tibebu is an accounting professional with 12 years experience in different government agencies and private companies and has obtained several qualification certificates in his field. He heads the Finance and Admin Department.
Feven Assebework Zegeye
Sales and Export Manager
With a background extending from Ethiopia to Sweden, Feven brings a unique international perspective to her role as Sales and Export Manager. Her fluency in Amharic, English, and Swedish is a significant asset in her work with Vegbox's diverse clientele. Feven has a strong foundation in client-facing roles, with extensive experience in sales, customer service, and supervision. At Vegbox, Feven leads the sales team, works closely with premium clients, and represents the company at the Ethiopian Horticulture Producers and Exporters Association.
Gebremedhin Tifashe
Engineering Manager
Canal Construction
Gebere holds a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering and an M.Sc. in Hydraulic Engineering from Arba Minch University. He brings decades of experience in large-scale irrigation and infrastructure projects, including the construction of major weirs, canals, roads, and residential developments across southern Ethiopia. Previously, he served as Civil and Irrigation Manager at the Ethiopian Sugar Corporation and led engineering efforts for the Omo Kuraz sugar projects.
Abenezer Wendimu
Certification / Hygiene Manager
Abenezer is holding an MSc in Life Sciences. He specializes in agricultural quality assurance, hygiene standards, and international certification systems such as GlobalG.A.P., FSS, and GRASP.
He leads risk assessments, compliance, and sustainable quality management, ensuring VegBox meets food safety, worker welfare, and environmental standards. Passionate about sustainable agriculture, Abenezer helps enhance the company’s market access through strict adherence to global standards and audit readiness.