Steeve's story, an entrepreneur in the DRC

When Steeve Ngonga founded Nutraceutic in Lubumbashi, his ambition went far beyond producing dietary supplements. His goal was to demonstrate that Congolese biodiversity could become a true catalyst for health, job creation, and sustainable development.

However, like many high-potential entrepreneurs, Steeve faced a major challenge: turning a promising idea into a robust business capable of attracting partners and investors. He needed to structure his business model, clarify his strategy, and prepare his company for growth.

A Shift in Vision

By joining OVO’s acceleration program, Steeve was not simply looking for technical advice. He wanted to learn how to build a sustainable business capable of generating economic, social, and environmental impact.

The real turning point came when he realized that Nutraceutic was not merely selling moringa.

“We realized that we were not simply selling Moringa, but rather high-value natural health solutions with social, economic, and environmental impact. This realization completely transformed our vision of the company.”

Through coaching, business model development, and exchanges with OVO mentors, Nutraceutic repositioned itself as a biotechnology company specializing in the sustainable valorization of local biodiversity.

Tangible Results

This new vision quickly translated into measurable outcomes:

• 58% increase in revenue between 2024 and 2025;
• 5 new jobs created, bringing the team to 13 full-time employees;
• USD 18,500 in funding secured (USD 10,000 in credit and USD 8,500 in grants);
• 100% increase in production between 2024 and 2026;
• New distributors, enhanced credibility, and investments in production equipment and logistics.

Beyond the numbers, Nutraceutic is now a more structured company, with strengthened governance and the capacity to continue its growth journey.

An Impact Beyond the Business

For Steeve, success is not measured solely in numbers.

By promoting moringa and other local plant-based resources, Nutraceutic is creating new economic opportunities for producers, raising awareness among communities about healthier nutrition, and contributing to the preservation of ecosystems.

This journey has also transformed his leadership approach.

"Today, I make more of my decisions based on data, clear objectives, and a strategic vision."

An Ambition for Central Africa

Over the next five years, Steeve envisions Nutraceutic becoming a leading reference in Central Africa for the scientific valorization of biodiversity, with a premium range of dietary supplements, strong partnerships with local producers, and a presence across several African markets.

His advice to young entrepreneurs perfectly summarizes his journey:

"Don't fall in love with your product; fall in love with the problem you're solving. Keep learning, listen to your customers, and dare to challenge your business model."

At OVO, we are proud to support entrepreneurs like Steeve Ngonga, who demonstrate that with a clear vision, the right support, and the right tools, it is possible to build African businesses that create jobs, drive innovation, and generate lasting impact.

Ongoing Support

This success story is part of the Ushindi I program, implemented by OVO at the request of Enabel DRC, with the goal of helping high-potential Congolese SMEs achieve sustainable growth and improve access to financing.

The program is delivered in close collaboration with our local partners, the Resource Centers of Haut-Katanga and Lualaba, which help strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in these two provinces.

Finally, a huge thank you to the coaching duo supporting Steeve throughout this entrepreneurial journey: Michel Varache, OVO's European coach, and Gaël Mbala, Congolese coach, who continue to provide guidance and support for Nutraceutic's growth.