TechPression

Category: Africa Tech News

  • Ethiopia’s Wegagen Capital appoints Brutawit Dawit as CEO

    Ethiopia’s Wegagen Capital appoints Brutawit Dawit as CEO

    Days after receiving its licence as one of the first investment banks in Ethiopia, Wegagen Capital Investment Bank S.C. (WCIB) appointed Brutawit Dawit, a seasoned banker with decades of experience in the financial industry, as its CEO. The announcement was made on Monday.

    As the CEO of Wegagen Capital Investment Bank, Brutawit Dawit, with 30 years of industry experience, will lead the bank in advancing Ethiopia’s capital market.

    With her vast credentials and track record of leadership, which includes positions at Wegagen and Zemen banks, Brutawit is well-positioned to influence the emerging capital market.

    Read also: AfricInvest and Swedfund champion gender inclusion with new €15 million fund

    Significant milestone in Ethiopia’s financial industry 

    With a starting capital of 385 million Br, WCIB is the nation’s first official investment bank, marking a significant milestone in the financial industry.

    WCIB intends to open doors into the asset and wealth management industries while offering full financial advisory and broking services.

    Wegagen Bank’s president and Board Chair of the recently formed investment bank, Aklilu Wubet (PhD), expressed hope for the WCIB’s possible contribution to the developing capital market. Companies that wish to sell their shares to the public require organisations that can carry out in-depth feasibility studies and offer crucial consulting services, according to Aklilu.

    Aklilu also disclosed that Wegagen Bank, Ethiopia’s only listed company on the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), plans to leverage these opportunities and establish a presence in every listed company within the emerging capital market.

    Licensing of the new investment banks

    The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) on Thursday licensed the country’s first investment banks, marking a major milestone in the financial sector.

    The newly approved institutions, Wegagen Capital Investment Bank Stock Company along with CBE Capital Stock Company, are poised to introduce a new era of investment banking in Ethiopia.

    Alongside the two investment banks, ECMA has granted licenses to other key capital market players. HST Investment Advisory Services and Equus Securities Investment Advisor are now officially accredited as Securities Investment Advisors, while Ethio-Fidelity Securities Stock Company has been authorized as a Securities Market Operator.

    Read also: Safaricom Spark Accelerator supports nine Kenyan startups with funding, mentorship, and market access

    Significance of newly licensed investment banks to Ethiopia’s market diversification 

    These new capital market service providers’ arrival is essential to Ethiopia’s market’s diversification and provision of essential services to the general population.

    Investment banking, advisory services, and securities transaction execution are among the services offered.

    Better capital-raising and investment opportunities will become possible as a result of this expansion, which will provide the market new depth and efficiency.

    It is anticipated that these new service providers will increase investor confidence, advance market equity, and offer improved capital-raising instruments, hence opening up the market to institutional and individual investors.

  • Safaricom Spark Accelerator supports nine Kenyan startups with funding, mentorship, and market access

    Safaricom Spark Accelerator supports nine Kenyan startups with funding, mentorship, and market access

    On March 21, 2025, Safaricom held an investor demo day to celebrate the achievements of nine startups from the inaugural cohort of its Spark Accelerator Program.

    The program, launched in collaboration with M-PESA Africa and Sumitomo Corporation, aims to empower Kenyan startups through funding, mentorship, and market access. The nine companies showcased innovative solutions across embedded finance, SME productivity tools, digital content, healthcare, and fintech.

    Read also: Sparkle, Al-Bawaba partner to enhance Libya’s internet speedsecurity 

    The startups include HealthX Africa, VunaPay, BlackRhino VR, Twiva, Chpter., Churpy.io, Nobuk Africa, FaidiHR (Safaricom Spark 24), and Chumz.io. These ventures were selected for their potential to address societal challenges and drive impactful change.

    Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, emphasised the program’s focus on providing more than just financial support: “We have restructured the program to address the challenges that hinder early startups from growing.”

    Participants benefited from technical support to develop mini-apps embedded into Safaricom’s M-PESA platform, enabling access to over four million users. Beyond the three-month accelerator period, startups will continue receiving guidance from Safaricom and its partners to scale their solutions across M-PESA’s eight markets.

    Second cohort applications open soon

    Following the success of the first cohort, Safaricom announced the launch of applications for the second phase of the Spark Accelerator Program. Entrepreneurs can apply between April 1 and May 15, 2025. This phase targets early-stage startups in sectors such as fintech powered by artificial intelligence, SME productivity tools like e-commerce enablement, and content creation, including local gaming and mobile advertisements.

    Read also: MTN South Sudan launches free data bundling for new smartphone users

    The program offers participants access to Safaricom’s customer base of over 30 million users and AWS Activate credits worth $25K for technology support.

    Additionally, startups will gain mentorship from industry leaders and networking opportunities with venture capitalists. Female-led companies are strongly encouraged to apply.

    Sitoyo Lopokoiyit, Managing Director of M-PESA Africa, highlighted the program’s broader impact: “Startups will create innovations that connect customers and businesses on M-PESA to more opportunities while providing them with even more value.”

    Safaricom’s Spark Accelerator Program continues to foster Kenya’s tech ecosystem by nurturing promising startups ready for growth while addressing economic challenges through innovation.

  • Morocco moves to regulate video surveillance and safeguard user privacy

    Morocco moves to regulate video surveillance and safeguard user privacy

    With the rise of video surveillance in Morocco, the National Commission for the Control of Personal Data Protection (CNDP) has launched a nationwide consultation to regulate its use. As security concerns and technological advancements push for increased surveillance, this initiative seeks to establish clear legal guidelines that protect privacy rights while allowing for the responsible use of surveillance technology.

    The move comes as global discussions on facial recognition, data protection, and surveillance ethics intensify. While surveillance cameras help secure public and private spaces, they also raise questions about balancing security and personal privacy. 

    Read also: Reolink’s battery security camera records for days, no fees

    How Morocco plans to regulate video surveillance

    The regulation of surveillance technology in Morocco is currently governed by Law 09-08, which lays the groundwork for personal data protection. However, the rapid expansion of surveillance, particularly with AI-driven facial recognition and real-time monitoring, requires further clarification on how the law should be applied in practice.

    To address this challenge, the CNDP is holding consultative meetings with key stakeholders, including legal experts, tech professionals, business owners, and civil society representatives. These discussions aim to ensure surveillance technology complies with legal and ethical standards while preventing misuse.

    A key focus is defining clear regulations for deploying cameras in public and private spaces, ensuring transparency and preventing overreach. Concerns about facial recognition and mass surveillance are also being addressed as advancements in AI raise ethical and privacy issues.

    Additionally, the CNDP seeks to establish accountability in how surveillance data is collected, stored, and used, reinforcing Morocco’s commitment to data protection and privacy rights.

    Beyond the technical and legal aspects, the CNDP’s initiative reinforces Morocco’s constitutional right to privacy. Article 24 of the Moroccan Constitution explicitly states that “everyone has the right to the protection of their private life,” making this regulatory effort a critical step toward safeguarding citizens’ rights.

    Read also: Unlocking the potential of the Eufy 4G LTE Cam S330

    What this means for businesses and individuals

    For businesses and public institutions that rely on CCTV and other surveillance systems, these new regulations will provide a clear legal framework to follow, ensuring compliance with data protection laws. Companies that process personal data through surveillance will likely be required to obtain approvals, enhance transparency, and implement stronger security measures.

    For citizens, this initiative means greater protection of personal data and more transparency regarding how surveillance technologies impact daily life. With concerns growing about the potential misuse of surveillance footage and unauthorised tracking, the CNDP’s proactive approach ensures that security measures do not come at the expense of individual rights and freedoms.

    As Morocco moves forward with this initiative, it joins a global conversation on how to balance security and privacy in the digital age. The outcome of the CNDP’s consultations will not only shape the future of surveillance regulation in Morocco but could also set a precedent for other nations navigating similar challenges.

    By updating regulations and ensuring proper oversight, Morocco is taking an important step toward creating a safer yet privacy-conscious society—one where technology is used responsibly and ethically for the benefit of all.

  • Tony Elumelu Foundation supports 3,000 African entrepreneurs with $15 million grant

    Tony Elumelu Foundation supports 3,000 African entrepreneurs with $15 million grant

    On Saturday, March 22, 2025, Tony Elumelu, the Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), announced a $15 million grant to support 3,000 young entrepreneurs across 52 African countries.

    This initiative marks the unveiling of the 11th cohort of the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme in Abuja. Each selected entrepreneur will receive a non-refundable seed grant of $5,000 to launch or scale their businesses.

    Elumelu emphasised the foundation’s vision of fostering a self-sustaining Africa powered by the resilience and creativity of its youth. “Our vision, which began in 2010, is to create a self-sustaining Africa powered by the energy, vision, and resilience of young entrepreneurs,” he said.

    He highlighted that capital alone is insufficient for success and stressed the importance of mentorship, business education, and training. “In the 21st century, Africa does not need aid; what it needs is investment in its youth,” he added.

    Since its inception in 2015, TEF has disbursed over $115 million to more than 24,000 entrepreneurs, creating over 1.5 million jobs across the continent. This year’s cohort was selected from over 200,000 applications submitted by entrepreneurs from across Africa.

    Read also: AHOY supports Qme’s expansion into Gulf and African markets with $3 million

    Transforming communities through entrepreneurship

    The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme aims to democratise opportunity and foster African economic growth. Elumelu described the programme as a platform for catalysing growth and connecting young entrepreneurs with the resources needed to succeed. “If empowered and encouraged, these young Africans can drive meaningful change,” he stated.

    Mrs Somachi Chris-Asoluka, CEO of TEF, reiterated that each grant is non-refundable and not tied to loans or equity. She noted that TEF beneficiaries have demonstrated that innovative ideas are pivotal for Africa’s progress. “Our entrepreneurs have shown that ideas are the lifeblood of the African continent,” she said.

    Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, TEF has surpassed its initial goal of supporting 10,000 entrepreneurs over ten years. Empowering over 21,000 individuals to date has lifted millions out of poverty and contributed to generating $4.2 billion in revenue across African economies.

  • Sparkle, Al-Bawaba partner to enhance Libya’s internet speedsecurity 

    Sparkle, Al-Bawaba partner to enhance Libya’s internet speedsecurity 

    Italian telecom company Sparkle has expanded its partnership with Al-Bawaba for Telecommunications and Informatics Co., a leading Libyan internet provider. This collaboration aims to improve Libya’s international internet connectivity, making it faster, more stable, and more secure. By combining Sparkle’s global network with Al-Bawaba’s local expertise, the two companies plan to enhance digital services, support businesses, and drive economic growth in Libya.

    Read also: Nigeria, Estonia strengthen ties in tech and trade

    Stronger internet infrastructure for businesses in Libya

    The collaboration between Sparkle and Al-Bawaba is built on a state-of-the-art, fully redundant infrastructure that integrates Al-Bawaba’s national fiber-optic backbone with Sparkle’s international capacity and extensive submarine cable network

    This setup will provide high-speed, Ethernet MPLS connectivity, ensuring seamless and uninterrupted data flow between Libya and the rest of the world. This is particularly beneficial for multinational companies, government institutions, NGOs, ISPs, and telecom operators, all of whom rely on secure and stable connections for their operations.

    Another key focus of the partnership is network security and service quality. Given Libya’s complex operational environment, ensuring data protection, stable connections, and business continuity is essential. The infrastructure is designed to withstand disruptions, ensuring that businesses can operate smoothly even in challenging circumstances.

    Barbara Sun, Head of Data Sales for Africa at Sparkle, said this move will help modernise Libya’s economy by improving digital access. Mohammed Algharyani, Vice President of Al-Bawaba, added that the partnership will provide secure and innovative telecom solutions to meet Libya’s growing demand for internet services.

    What this means for Libya’s future

    As Libya works toward economic recovery and digital expansion, strong internet infrastructure is crucial. The country has long relied on oil exports, but political instability has caused economic fluctuations. By investing in better connectivity, Sparkle and Al-Bawaba are helping Libya diversify its economy and attract more international business.

    This partnership follows a global trend where telecom companies are improving digital access in emerging markets. With Sparkle’s vast fibre-optic network and Al-Bawaba’s knowledge of Libya’s telecom industry, the project is expected to play a key role in shaping Libya’s digital future.

    The stronger partnership between Sparkle and Al-Bawaba is a big step forward for Libya’s telecom sector. By providing fast, stable, and secure connectivity, this collaboration will benefit businesses, government institutions, and everyday users. As Libya continues to embrace digital transformation, this initiative could set the stage for future technology investments in the region.

    Read also: Absa Bank Kenya hits 14% revenue growth, reaching Kshs 62.3 billion in 2024

    About Sparkle and Al-Bawaba

    Sparkle, a subsidiary of TIM Group, is Italy’s leading international telecom provider and one of the largest global players in the sector. The company operates a fibre-optic network spanning over 600,000 km across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, and Asia. It offers services such as capacity, IP, cloud, SD-WAN, IoT connectivity, and international voice solutions to telecom operators, businesses, and content providers worldwide.

    Al-Bawaba, founded in 2012, is a leading Libyan Internet Service Provider (ISP) that specialises in data connectivity solutions for businesses, government entities, NGOs, and telecom operators. The company provides highly customised and secure connectivity solutions designed to meet Libya’s growing demand for advanced telecom infrastructure. Through its partnership with Sparkle, Al-Bawaba is helping bridge Libya’s digital divide by offering fast, reliable, and high-performance internet services.

  • Tunisia, World Bank seek experts for 400 MW large-scale solar project

    Tunisia, World Bank seek experts for 400 MW large-scale solar project

    The World Bank, in collaboration with Tunisia’s Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy (MIME), has announced the need for a technical study for a substantial 350-400 MWp solar project integrated with battery storage (BESS).

    This initiative underscores Tunisia’s strong dedication to achieving its energy transition goals and proactively tackling its increasing energy deficit. This search for expert consultants marks a vital step in realising this ambitious project, with the Expression of Interest (EOI) deadline set for March 24.

    Read also: Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation shortlists 16 entries from seven nations

    Tunisia’s energy deficit spurs the drive for solar and storage expertise

    Faced with a significant challenge, Tunisia’s energy deficit soars to 57 percent in 2023, a dramatic increase from just seven percent in 2010. This growing dependence on energy imports seriously threatens the nation’s energy security. To counteract this alarming situation, Tunisia has committed to an energy transition policy focused on establishing an efficient and diversified energy system that is less reliant on fossil fuels. 

    The country has set an ambitious goal to integrate 35 percent of renewable energy by 2030. To achieve this, Tunisia is actively encouraging private sector involvement in renewable energy development through various investment regimes such as concession, authorisation, and self-production. This call for consultants is a direct action to support this ambitious target, specifically for a large-scale solar and storage project.

    The consultant’s mission will define the optimal solar and BESS configuration

    The primary objective of this mission is for the selected consultant to assess the best functioning and functionalities of the BESS when combined with the 350-400 MWp solar park. The World Bank is seeking this technical expertise to better inform the Tunisian government in the procurement of future solar park projects. 

    The consultant’s work will involve providing recommendations on the optimal configuration of both solar and storage technologies, including their type and capacity. This will involve a detailed analysis of the state-of-the-art technologies, simulations of the optimal BESS operation (including peak shaving, smoothing, and peak shifting) using historical solar data, and a thorough site assessment.

    Read also: Baobab Nigeria lent N500 billion to MSMEs to drive financial inclusion

    Expected deliverables will shape the future of Tunisian renewables

    The appointed consultant will be responsible for a comprehensive scope of work, leading to several key deliverables. These include an inception report detailing the methodology and timeline, a detailed analysis of technology scenarios considering CAPEX, OPEX, and LCOE, simulation reports on BESS operation and functionalities, including the transfer of simulation tools and training, a thorough site assessment report evaluating the suitability of the proposed site, a comprehensive technical analysis recommending optimal plant configurations and grid connection points, a grid impact assessment in collaboration with the state-owned operator (STEG), an economic and financial analysis evaluating the project’s viability including sensitivity analyses, and a final engineering study report consolidating all findings.

    Furthermore, the consultant is expected to provide capacity building to the client’s team through training programs and a knowledge transfer mission abroad. This crucial engagement of consultants will lay the groundwork for a significant advancement in Tunisia’s renewable energy capacity.

  • Tade Oyerinde Campus startup secures $46 million Series B funding

    Tade Oyerinde Campus startup secures $46 million Series B funding

    Nigerian-born tech entrepreneur Tade Oyerinde has made headlines with his innovative community college startup, Campus, securing $46 million in Series B funding.

    This investment, announced on March 20, 2025, was led by General Catalyst and brings Campus’s total funding to over $100 million. The funding is a testament to the growing interest in disrupting traditional higher education models, particularly in the United States.

    Read also: Bumpa Co-founder and CTO, Adetunji Opayele, dies in ghastly accident

    Campus launches affordable online higher education

    Campus, founded by Oyerinde in 2022, aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable by offering online associate degrees and certifications in fields such as business administration, medical assisting, and applied artificial intelligence. The institution’s tuition is set at $7,200 per year, which is fully covered by Pell Grants for eligible students, making it a more affordable option compared to traditional colleges.

    Ken Chenault, Chairman of General Catalyst, praised Campus for its innovative approach, saying,”Campus has created a model that is rooted in the rigor and legacy of American higher education with the benefit of technology and innovation that students will require to thrive in an increasingly competitive global economy”.

    Campus employs over 100 educators, many of whom also teach at prestigious institutions like Princeton, Stanford, and Howard University. This model not only benefits students but also provides additional income opportunities for professors.

    Oyerinde’s vision is clear, stating , “It’s really simple. In America, we should have elite education for everyone—everyone should be able to learn from the top professors in the country, develop useful skills, and then go on to use those skills to create a great life for themselves.”

    Read also: QED Investors leads $33 million funding round for NymCard, boosting MENA’s fintech ecosystem

    Innovative educational model and impact

    The Campus model is inspired by research that has shown to double two-year college graduation rates. It delivers live, online instruction from respected professors and offers wraparound support, including on-demand tutoring and personal success coaching. This approach is particularly appealing to a generation frustrated by the cost and pace of traditional higher education.

    Campus has attracted support from influential investors such as Sam Altman, Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund, and Jason Citron, reflecting its potential to address the financial strain of higher education in the U.S.. With student loan debt nearing $1.8 trillion, Campus offers a welcome alternative by providing affordable education without the burden of debt.

    Graduates of Campus have successfully transferred to four-year universities like New York University and Penn State, or entered the workforce directly after completing their programs. This success underscores Campus’s mission to provide high-quality, career-focused education that prepares students for immediate entry into the workforce or further education.

  • Flutterwave introduces Ghana Virtual Accounts to simplify payments

    Flutterwave introduces Ghana Virtual Accounts to simplify payments

    One of the top fintech businesses in Africa, Flutterwave, announced on Friday the introduction of Ghana Virtual Accounts, a new payment tool that lets Ghanaian consumers use Pay With Bank Transfer (PWBT) to pay merchants.

    Flutterwave’s objective to streamline payments and open up endless opportunities for businesses throughout Africa is in line with this most recent breakthrough.

    With the advent of static and dynamic virtual accounts, Flutterwave’s platform will enable both domestic and foreign retailers to provide more adaptable and convenient payment methods. By removing obstacles to payment collection, the company hopes to free enterprises from geographical limitations and restricted payment options.

    Read also: Nigerians can now pay taxes via Flutterwave on FIRS’ TaxPro Max

    How Ghana Virtual Accounts Work

    Flutterwave claims that the Ghana Virtual Accounts service enables merchants to create distinct bank accounts via the Flutterwave API, allowing clients to pay directly through mobile money or bank transfers.

    Two kinds of virtual accounts are available with the feature:

    Dynamic virtual accounts: These are intended for one-time purchases made at the register. On the payment page, customers are given a unique account number. In order for the transaction to be completed correctly, they must send the precise amount owed. Payment accuracy and security are improved by this technique.

    Static Virtual Accounts: These accounts eliminate the need to create new information for every transaction by being assigned to particular clients for recurrent payments. Businesses that need long-term payment connections with their clientele will especially benefit from this capability.

    Benefits of Ghana Virtual Accounts

    Flutterwave outlined a number of benefits that companies and clients can anticipate from this new service:

    Safe and Easy Transactions: By allowing users to approve payments straight from their mobile money platform or bank app, fraud risk is decreased.

    Reduced Payment Errors: By ensuring that clients pay the precise amount due, dynamic virtual accounts help to avoid inconsistencies and minimise the need for refunds.

    Faster Payment Settlements: Compared to certain other payment methods, Pay With Bank Transfer settlements for transactions are accomplished in a day. The increased settlement speed improves the cash flow of the business.

    Greater Transaction Limits: Businesses can execute transactions up to GHS 2,000,000 using the Pay With Bank Transfer method, which is a significant increase over the GHS 25,000 limit for mobile money transactions. This increased cap helps companies who deal with big transactions.

    Scalability for Businesses: Merchants can create single or bulk static virtual accounts to meet their expanding transaction needs, regardless of the size of their business.

    Simple API Integration: Flutterwave’s API makes it easy for businesses to incorporate the feature, allowing for immediate virtual account creation and money collection.

    E-Levy alerts: Flutterwave has integrated alerts to inform users of applicable E-Levy costs on eligible transactions in order to improve transparency.

    Read also: Nigeria, Flutterwave sign agreement to empower young people

    Improving Ghanaian Payment Solutions: With Ghana Virtual Accounts, Flutterwave is extending its payment alternatives and solidifying its place as a major participant in Africa’s digital payment market. The current payment options that Ghanaian consumers have access to, such as Google Pay, Apple Pay, debit and credit cards, and mobile money, are enhanced by this new functionality.

    Businesses can now benefit from increased flexibility, more effective payments, and a better customer experience thanks to virtual accounts, which furthers Flutterwave’s mission to promote financial inclusion and smooth online transactions throughout Africa.

  • ABK-Egypt partners with Visa to improve digital payment solutions

    ABK-Egypt partners with Visa to improve digital payment solutions

    On Wednesday, Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait – Egypt (ABK-Egypt) announced the signing of a long-term strategic partnership agreement with Visa, a global leader in digital solutions and payment technology.

    The partnership aims to provide the newest digital payment technologies to satisfy customer demands, launch cutting-edge products and services for various market segments, and improve its digital payment solutions with cutting-edge and competitive features and benefits.

    Read also: Mali digitises payment and land management systems

    Introduction of new products and services 

    In keeping with Egypt’s plan to fully embrace digital transformation and advance electronic payment systems, this partnership entails the introduction of a number of new products and services that cater to the varied demands of different client segments.

    By means of this strategic collaboration, the Bank aims to advance its expansion strategy and implement cutting-edge solutions that offer clients a smooth and secure banking experience.

    Partnership aligns with Egypt’s goal of becoming a cashless society 

    ABK-Egypt is dedicated to Egypt’s goal of becoming a cashless society and its financial inclusion plan. Therefore, in order to improve customer experience and strengthen its position in the fiercely competitive and dynamic Egyptian market, the Bank implements a digital transformation strategy that centres on optimising banking operations.

    “We take pride in this cooperation and look forward to capturing a substantial market share through increasing transaction volumes and attracting new customer segments,” said Mr. Khaled Barakat, Deputy CEO ABK-Egypt leading Consumer Banking, in response to this alliance.

    He also underlined ABK-Egypt’s unrelenting efforts to broaden its retail portfolio by improving service quality and introducing new products and services that offer competitive advantages and are in line with the newest technological advancements and the evolving demands of diverse clientele.

    Read also: Bank of Ghana approves BrijX pilot for direct cedi-naira currency swaps

    Visa’s commitment to advance digital transformation in Egypt 

    In the same vein, Visa’s Vice President and Country Manager in Egypt, Malak Al-Baba, stated, “We at Visa are committed to providing the latest digital payment innovations to enhance consumer’s experience in Egypt. This agreement with Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait – Egypt represents a significant step towards achieving this goal, and we look forward to contributing to advancing digital transformation in the country.”

    He continued, “We believe that supporting our partners in achieving their ambitions is part of our mission. Through this strategic cooperation, we are proud to be part of Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait – Egypt’s vision to develop innovative banking solutions, enrich customers’ lives, and provide a seamless and secure banking experience.”

    It is important to note that the Bank’s position in the digital payments industry has strengthened significantly with the signing of this agreement with Visa. By drawing in new clientele and enticing more people to use banking services, this partnership enables ABK-Egypt to grow its clientele. It focusses especially on young people, who are becoming more and more reliant on technology in their daily lives and significantly boosting the Egyptian economy.

  • Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation shortlists 16 entries from seven nations

    Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation shortlists 16 entries from seven nations

    On Wednesday, the Royal Academy of Engineering announced that 16 engineering innovators from seven African countries have been shortlisted for the 2025 Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation.

    This prestigious award, launched in 2014, is the continent’s largest prize dedicated to fostering engineering innovation. Its mission is to stimulate, celebrate, and reward innovation and entrepreneurship across sub-Saharan Africa.

    Read also: Adeniyi and Gloria Abiodun launch $1.3 million fund to train aspiring software engineers in Africa

    Innovations and innovators

    The shortlisted innovators hail from Ghana, Nigeria, Mozambique, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Togo. Their innovations address a wide range of challenges, including lifesaving postpartum care for mothers and babies in rural areas, upcycling and hybrid green energy solutions for farmers, smart agritech for food crops, fisheries, and beekeepers, groundbreaking AI tools for the hearing impaired, and electricity-free cold storage for small-scale farmers.

    Here are the 16 shortlisted innovations and their respective entrepreneurs:

    Aquamet (Ghana) – Developed by Frank Owusu, this device checks water quality in fisheries and sends real-time alerts to farmers’ phones to improve fish yields.

    Neo Nest (Uganda) – Designed by Vivian Arinaitwe, it is a neonatal warming and monitoring device that relays key health indicators of a newborn in real-time to medical professionals to prevent neonatal deaths.

    Autothermo (Uganda) – Created by Nura Izath, this innovative bracelet-like device monitors and transmits real-time data on temperature, fever, and respiratory issues through an intuitive emoji system.

    TERP 360 (Kenya) – An AI-powered sign language translator.

    Clean Cooking Alternative Fuel (Togo) – Made from recycled plastic, this innovation provides a clean alternative for cooking.

    Electricity-Free Cold Storage (Tanzania) – A solution for small-scale farmers to store perishable goods without electricity.

    Smart Agritech (Nigeria) – Solutions for food crops, fisheries, and beekeepers.

    Upcycling and Hybrid Green Energy (Mozambique) – Solutions for farmers to improve energy efficiency.

    AI Tools for Residential Energy Monitoring (Kenya) – Groundbreaking AI tools to monitor residential energy use.

    Lifesaving Postpartum Care (Ghana) – Innovations for lifesaving postpartum care in rural areas.

    AI Tools for the Hearing Impaired (Nigeria) – Groundbreaking AI tools to support greater inclusivity for the hearing impaired.

    New Packaging Technology (Tanzania)- Inspired by human skin, it is used for electricity-free cold storage.

    Clean Cooking Gas (Kenya) – Made from waste plastic.

    Disposable Plates from Agricultural Waste (Togo) – Made from maize husks.

    Innovative Materials from Waste Plastic (Mozambique) – Used for furniture and other products.

    Smart Beekeeping Solutions (Uganda)—Although not detailed, this is part of the broader smart agritech innovations.

    Read also: Nigeria, Estonia strengthen ties in tech and trade

    Impact and Awards

    Since its inception, the Africa Prize has supported 149 businesses from 22 African countries, providing invaluable training, mentoring, and communication resources. These businesses have created over 28,000 jobs and benefited more than 10 million people through the innovative products and services developed.

    The winner of the Africa Prize will receive GBP25,000 (approximately US$32,000), while three runners-up will each be awarded GBP10,000 (approximately US$13,000). Additionally, the audience at the award ceremony will vote on the “One-to-Watch” award winner for the most impactful pitch, who will receive GBP5,000 (approximately US$6,500).

    Neo Hutiri, the winner of the Africa Prize in 2019 and the Africa Prize Alumni Medal in 2024 noted, “Being part of the Africa Prize was a game changer for me. Before the Prize, I struggled to get an audience with key decision-makers in the National Department of Health in South Africa. Two weeks after the announcement, the media coverage opened doors, leading to a pivotal meeting with the Head of Access to Medicine. Today, Pelebox is in over 100 healthcare facilities across South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia—proof of the Prize’s lasting impact. I’m excited to see how this year’s shortlist will benefit from this incredible platform”.

    The Africa Prize has a thriving alum network, with 71 percent of alums generating revenue and collectively securing $39 million in grants and equity funding. This year’s shortlist reflects the diversity and creativity of engineering innovation across Africa, with each innovator offering unique solutions to pressing health, educational, and environmental challenges in their communities.