About NEKST
We connect globalbuyers with trusted local partners to trade essential commodities like coffee, maize, and rice. Our model combines global capital, local expertise, and Islamic finance principles, ensuring every trade generates both financial return and social impact.
Through the NEKST App, buyers and managers access real-time updates, secure contracts, and ethical sourcing. With operations in Uganda, Türkiye, and Senegal, NEKST is building a scalable platform for impact commodity trading that delivers purpose and shared prosperity.
Mission
To deliver impact, Shariah-compliant trade opportunities by facilitating tangible commodity cycles that empower farmers, strengthen local economies, and create lasting social impact for communities.
Vision
To become a global leader in impact commodity trading, bridging capital and communities through a transparent, impactful, and sustainable trade model.
Our Core Values
Ethics
100% Shariah-aligned operations.
Sustainability
Commitment to environmental preservation and responsible farming.
Impact
For impact buyers, an impact surcharge is levied and allocated to NGOs that support food, education, and dignity.
Transparency
Full traceability from purchase to sale, supported by real-time tracking.
Meet the Team NEKST
Dr. Umar Anule
Director & CEO of Swiha Investments Limited
Dr. Umar leads agriculture, farming and community engagement on all Swiha Investments activities.
Salim Refas
COO – Swiha Investments
Chief Operating Officer with 18+ years of experience in finance, trade, and industrial ventures across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Lutamaguzi Emmanuel
Director & Head of Operations of Swiha Investments
Emma is responsible for Commodity Trading Operations & bringing over 10 years of experience in organizational management and business development.
Julien Drolon
CIO & Co-Founder
20+ years in international fundraising and business matchmaking. Winner of the Global Islamic Economy Award (2018) and the Best Muslim Investment Award (2019). Host of the LEGACY Podcast in Southeast Asia.
Karim Hamdi
CCO & Co-Founder
Finance and business development professional with experience in Saudi Arabia’s energy, mobility, and infrastructure projects. Co-founder of a B2B SaaS tech company.
Dr. Abrar Zafar
CTO & Co-Founder
20+ years leading AI-driven transformations, ERP implementations, and compliance projects at Johnson & Johnson, Baxter Healthcare, and UN World Food Programme. Holds a PhD in Supply Chain Innovation.
Leadership & Advisors
Mr. Mohamed El Atfi
General Counsel
Legal professional providing counsel on governance and contractual matters. Registered with the Paris Bar Association.
Mr. Ahmed Arbee
Group Chief Finance Officer
Chartered Accountant / CPA with over 30 years’ professional experience in finance, audit & risk management.
Dr. Mohamed Hassan Abbas
Head of Governance & Head of Asia
PhD in Islamic Finance. 8 years of experience in compliance and Islamic microfinance.
Ibrahima Sarr
Head of Senegal Operations
CEO of Kayit Eco. Manages a 15-member team in sustainable agriculture.
Dahir Abdul Nasser
Commodity Manager Türkiye
CEO of SEV Company. Oversees commodity operations in Türkiye.
Dr. Shah Fahad
Shariah Advisor
Specialist in Islamic finance and Shariah compliance.
Abdouramane Diallo
International Trade Expert
Experienced in international trade and commodity markets.