Summary:
25 African startups are leading innovation in healthcare, food storage, and banking services
Despite a 22% drop in funding, these startups are expanding with backing from global investors
Klasha (Nigeria) and Anka (Ivory Coast) are revolutionizing cross-border payments and e-commerce
Envisionit Deep AI (South Africa) is addressing the shortage of pediatric radiologists with AI
Freezelink (Ghana) and Plentify (South Africa) are tackling food waste and energy efficiency
Innovative African Startups Tackling Regional Challenges
Bloomberg’s inaugural list of African startups highlights 25 companies developing innovative solutions to the continent’s many challenges, from healthcare to food storage and banking services. Despite a 22% drop in funding last year, these startups are pushing forward with expansion plans, backed by notable investors like the Gates Foundation and Alibaba Group Holdings Ltd.’s co-founder, Joe Tsai.
Key Startups to Watch
- Anda (Angola) - A motorcycle e-hailing service providing financing to drivers, helping them create assets and wealth.
- Anka (Ivory Coast) - A global marketplace for African businesses, facilitating payments and shipping in partnership with DHL.
- Dodai (Ethiopia) - Produces electric scooters and three-wheelers, addressing poor infrastructure and complicated regulations.
- Envisionit Deep AI (South Africa) - Uses AI to provide radiology services for children, addressing the shortage of pediatric radiologists.
- Klasha (Nigeria) - Offers cross-border payment solutions, converting African currencies to yuan, dollars, and pounds.
- Freezelink (Ghana) - Provides solar-powered cold storage to reduce food waste and improve vaccine storage.
- Plentify (South Africa) - An AI bot that helps consumers cut energy costs by learning user behavior and optimizing power usage.
- ThriveAgric (Nigeria) - A one-stop-shop for farmers, connecting them with transporters, buyers, and financiers.
- Zuri Health (Kenya) - Delivers healthcare via WhatsApp and text services to rural communities.
Why These Startups Matter
These companies are not just solving local problems but are also attracting global attention and investment. From AI-driven healthcare to sustainable energy solutions, they are setting the stage for Africa’s economic and technological future.
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