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Issue 12

𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬, 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐜𝐬, 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲, 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐡

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Latest News - Spotlight In Africa | Business, Innovation & Economic Insights Across Africa

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Exploring Key Factors Driving Africa's Business Landscape

Africa Can Unlock $3.4 Billion Through Regional Trade

Green Afro-Palms: Empowering Smallholder Farmers

Growth Opportunities in Africa | Emerging Markets & Business Expansion

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Burundi's Bold Economic Modernization

Burundi is embarking on an ambitious journey to address its rising public debt, which surged by 18% to BIF 6,150.8 billion in 2023....

Launching Ethiopia's First Stock Exchange

Ethiopia has officially launched its first stock exchange, the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), marking a significant milestone in...

Boosting Climate Finance With Green Banks

The African Development Bank has launched the African Green Bank Initiative, a significant step in Africa's climate finance journey....

Innovative Financing For Nature Conservation

In a landmark move, at least five African nations are collaborating on what could become the world’s first joint “debt-for-nature” swap,...

Economy - Africa’s Economic Trends | Markets, Trade & Investment Insights

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Africa Can Unlock $3.4 Billion Through Regional Trade

Africa stands at a critical juncture in its economic development, with the potential to unlock a $3.4 billion trading market through...

Burundi's Bold Economic Modernization

Burundi is embarking on an ambitious journey to address its rising public debt, which surged by 18% to BIF 6,150.8 billion in 2023....

Nine of the Top 20 Performing Economics in the World to come from Sub-Saharan Africa in 2025

The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) World Economic Outlook report forecasts Sub-Saharan Africa’s economic growth to reach 4.2% in...

Sub-Saharan Africa is Expected to Double its Renewable Energy Capacity by 2030

Sub-Saharan Africa is set to experience a transformative leap in renewable energy, with nearly 90 GW of new capacity forecasted from 2024...

Entrepreneurs - Meet Africa’s Top Entrepreneurs | Success Stories & Business Insights

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Green Afro-Palms: Empowering Smallholder Farmers

Green Afro-Palms (GAP) is a Ghanaian agribusiness founded by Kwame Ababio, an engineer committed to leveraging technology and innovation...

Funkidz Limited: Innovation Meets Sustainability

Funkidz Limited, founded by Ciiru Waithaka, is a Kenyan-based company driving creativity and innovation in the manufacturing industry....

Maliyo Games: Shaping the Future of African Gaming

Maliyo Games, founded by Hugo Obi in 2012, is at the forefront of demonstrating African culture through casual mobile games. The company...

Africa's Talking: Pan-African Tech Enabler

Sam Gikandi, the co-founder of ‘Africa’s Talking’, has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the tech industry in Africa. Established...

“There is no such thing as an easy or smart business. You’re more likely to succeed when you do something that you’re authentically connected to.” - Rapelang Rabana.
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Rapelang Rabana is a pioneering tech entrepreneur and thought leader, widely recognized for her innovative contributions to the digital and education sectors. Currently, she serves as the Co-CEO of Imagine Worldwide, an education technology NGO dedicated to providing literacy and numeracy solutions to children in underserved communities across Sub-Saharan Africa. Through her leadership, Imagine Worldwide has expanded its reach, leveraging technology to bridge educational gaps and empower young learners with foundational skills for lifelong success.
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Rabana’s entrepreneurial journey began at 22 years old when she co-founded Yeigo Communications, one of Africa’s first mobile VoIP companies, which was later acquired by Telfree. By 2013, she founded Rekindle Learning, a mobile learning platform that has impacted thousands of learners by providing scalable, adaptive learning solutions that cater to both corporate training and academic needs, particularly in underserved communities. Over the years, she has taken on influential roles, including serving as a consultant and advisor to organizations like the World Economic Forum and the United Nations and has been a sought-after speaker on innovation, leadership, and the future of work.
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Rabana’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades and recognition on the global stage. She was named one of Forbes’ “30 Under 30” in Africa, honored as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, and featured on Oprah Winfrey’s “Power List.” Additionally, she has been recognized as one of the “Most Influential Women in Tech” by Fast Company and received the prestigious Global Leadership Award from the Vital Voices Global Partnership. Through her ventures and leadership, Rapelang Rabana continues to inspire innovation and drive transformative change, proving that technology can be a powerful tool for social and economic empowerment.
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✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!

“When you’re starting as an entrepreneur, your number one thing is to find a business model that’s going to work.” - Vusi Thembekwayo
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Vusi Thembekwayo is a South African entrepreneur, author, and public speaker best known for his transformative contributions to business and leadership development. As the founder and CEO of My Growth Fund, a venture capital firm, he is committed to addressing the entrepreneurial gap that has historically disadvantaged many Black South Africans in the business sector. To date, he has invested 5 million rand to help launch 300 Black-owned businesses by 2030. My Growth Fund is a leading business agency that supports organizations with strategy, leadership, and growth through funding, incubation, and enterprise development platforms.
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Throughout his career, Vusi has been invited to speak at prestigious events and platforms, including Fortune 500 company conferences, global summits, and TED stages. As an accomplished author, his debut book, The Magna Carta of Exponentiality, sold 6,000 copies on its launch day in 2017. Additionally, he gained widespread recognition as an investor on the African edition of Dragon’s Den in 2014. Vusi is deeply passionate about empowering young entrepreneurs and fostering social change in South Africa through mentorship programs.
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Among his many accolades, Vusi received the Guardian Award at the 9th Annual EMY Africa Awards in 2024 and the African Achievers Award the same year for his leadership excellence. His ability to transform businesses and inspire leaders globally has established him as a sought-after speaker and business strategist. Vusi’s work continues to leave a lasting impact on South Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the global business landscape.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightethio ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#vusithembekwayo #vusi #mygrowthfund #schoolofscale #vtclub #southafricanbusiness #southafricanentrepreneur #africanbusiness #africanentrepreneurs #panafrica #quoteoftheweek #africaninvestors #africaneconomy #africanstartups #spotlightinafrica

ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴɪᴛɪᴀᴛɪᴠᴇs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#africanstartups #africanyouth #africansolutions #ethiopianbusiness #greenafrica #africanunion #africantech #africancompanies #africanbusiness #africaninvestors #africanfinance #southafricanbusiness #kenyanbusiness #nigerianbusinesses #africangrowth #ethiopianbusiness #eastafrica #ethiopianstartups #africandevelopment #africantrade #africaneconomy #addisababa #ethiopia #eastafrican #ethiopian #panafrica #habeshabusiness #madeinafrica #spotlightinafrica

Africa’s gaming market has experienced explosive growth, reaching $1.8 billion in 2024 and expanding six times faster than the global average, according to Carry1st and Newzoo. The number of gamers surged to nearly 350 million, driven by large youth populations, increasing smartphone use, and better internet access. Mobile gaming now dominates nearly 90% of the market, leapfrogging traditional console platforms. This trend is amplified by the rapid adoption of affordable smartphones, particularly from brands like Transsion’s Tecno, making gaming accessible to a broader audience.
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This surge in players and spending highlights a key dynamic—Africa is one of the few regions still experiencing secular growth in the gaming industry. Unlike other parts of the world, where markets are maturing, Africa’s gaming market continues to expand rapidly. The biggest revenue drivers in 2024 came from Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Africa, while the fastest growth in revenue was recorded in Eritrea and Niger, driven by increasing interest in digital services.
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However, Africa’s gaming landscape faces significant challenges. Poor telecom infrastructure still stifles the full potential of data-heavy and multiplayer games, especially in rural areas. While internet access has improved, inconsistent connectivity continues to limit the online gaming experience in many regions.
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In addition, Africa’s gaming community remains highly cost-conscious, with less than a third of players spending over $5 a month on games, presenting an opportunity for developers to cater to this price-sensitive audience. The cultural gap in many games, created for non-African audiences, offers local developers the chance to craft content that resonates more deeply with African players. While developers like Maliyo Games and Qene Games are already addressing this gap, there remains ample opportunity to create more culturally relevant games, helping to further expand the market.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴɪᴛɪᴀᴛɪᴠᴇs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#africangaming #africanbusiness #africanstartups #africantech #panafrica #spotlightinafrica

Fred Swaniker is a Ghanaian entrepreneur and educator whose vision for leadership development is reshaping Africa’s future. As the founder of the African Leadership Group, he has dedicated his career to training the next generation of African leaders. His institutions emphasize entrepreneurial thinking, ethical leadership, and innovative problem-solving, equipping young Africans with the skills to drive economic and social progress across the continent.
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Fred’s entrepreneurial journey began with his deep belief that Africa’s biggest challenge is not resources but leadership. After working as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, he launched the African Leadership Academy in 2004 to develop high-potential students into future changemakers. He expanded his vision with ALU, a university designed to produce 3 million leaders by 2035 through a unique, project-based learning model, and ALX, a platform offering tech and leadership training to prepare Africans for the future of work. His ventures have attracted global partnerships, securing funding from organizations like the MasterCard Foundation and Omidyar Network to scale their impact. Currently, Fred also serves as Chairman of Sand Technologies, a global leader in AI and data solutions, further advancing his mission to position Africa at the forefront of innovation.
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His contributions have earned him international recognition, including being named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and appearing on Forbes’ list of “The Ten Youngest Power Men in Africa.” He has also received numerous accolades, such as the Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship, recognition as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2019, and the TIME100 Impact Award in 2023. With a relentless focus on leadership and innovation, Fred continues to drive transformative change, positioning Africa as a hub for world-class talent and entrepreneurship.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#alxafrica #africanleadershipacademy #fredswaniker #africanleadership #panafrica #africanbusiness #africanentrepreneurs #spotlightinafrica

Africa stands at a critical juncture in its economic development, with the potential to unlock a $3.4 billion trading market through strategic infrastructure investments and effective trade policies, according to a recent UNCTAD report. The full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers a transformative opportunity to diversify the continent’s economy, which remains heavily reliant on commodity exports and vulnerable to global market fluctuations.
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To accelerate this, investments in connectivity, energy, and transport are essential to cut trade costs—50% above the global average—and boost competitiveness, especially for landlocked nations. Small and medium-sized enterprises, which provide 80% of Africa’s employment, need access to credit, risk-management tools, and regional supply chains. Bilateral investment treaties, which lower risks for investors and traders by clarifying legal and regulatory frameworks, play a key role in fostering a stable business environment. Mauritius leads Sub-Saharan Africa with the highest number of signed and active treaties, followed by South Africa and Zimbabwe, each with at least 30 agreements.
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However, Africa’s reliance on outdated treaties exposes countries to costly disputes and regulatory constraints. Many also fail to balance investor protection with public interest. The adoption of the Protocol on Investment under the AfCFTA marks a step forward, offering a modern framework that is expected to facilitate intra-African investment. Such initiatives are essential to attract foreign direct investment, which declined by 3% in 2023 amid global economic uncertainty.
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Intra-African trade, which accounts for just 16% of total exports, represents one of the continent’s greatest untapped opportunities. To capitalize on this, Africa must streamline trade policies, invest in infrastructure, and incentivize industrialization. Strengthening regional integration will stabilize economies, create new revenue streams, and position the continent as a global economic force.
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✅ ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ!
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Source: UNCTAD & Semafor

Gcwalisa, founded by Miles Kubheka, is a transformative South African business revolutionizing township shopping through an eco-friendly, innovative model. The company focuses on reducing single-use plastics by providing green refill stations for common household items, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging. By offering everyday products at lower prices, Gcwalisa not only makes them more affordable but also actively advocates for environmental conservation in underserved communities. This unique approach has earned the company widespread recognition for its positive impact on both local economies and the environment.
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The company’s “weigh and pay” model is at the heart of its business, where customers refill their containers at refill stations for products like cleaning supplies, toiletries, and other daily essentials. This model reduces waste and helps consumers pay only for what they use, creating a cost-effective and sustainable shopping experience. Gcwalisa’s business model empowers local entrepreneurs by partnering with township businesses, ensuring that the refill stations are easily accessible while educating customers about sustainable consumption practices. These stations create job opportunities and promote community-driven entrepreneurship.
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Gcwalisa has received significant praise for its innovative approach and has made measurable impact by reducing plastic waste, creating jobs, and promoting environmental awareness. The company’s work has been recognized by various environmental and social enterprises, solidifying its place as a key player in the fight against plastic pollution and promoting responsible consumer behavior. By contributing to both economic growth and environmental sustainability, Gcwalisa is not just reshaping retail, but is also leading a movement towards a greener and more equitable future for South Africa and beyond.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#africanbusiness #africantech #africandiaspora #africanstartup #africanentrepreneurs #southafricabusiness #digitalafrica #madeinafrica #spotlightinafrica

Green Afro-Palms (GAP) is a Ghanaian agribusiness founded by Kwame Ababio, an engineer committed to leveraging technology and innovation to transform agriculture. The company specializes in sustainable oil palm cultivation and agro-processing, working with over 1,000 smallholder farmers to produce high-quality edible palm oil. GAP’s model empowers farmers by purchasing raw crops directly, eliminating middlemen, increasing rural incomes, and discouraging illegal mining, which threatens farmland sustainability. Their operations have also saved 1.2 million trees, helping to preserve water bodies, reduce deforestation, and support climate change mitigation.
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GAP integrates technology into agriculture through SmartFarmer, a digital platform that combines cooperative farming principles with IoT to optimize agro-processing, crop production, and animal husbandry. The platform, currently developing a website, enables individuals—including students and professionals—to venture into farming through crowdfunding for profit-sharing rewards and a virtual farming experience. SmartFarmer provides a comprehensive cooperative farming service that ensures increased food production, revenue generation, and excellent profits from agri-investments, covering everything from planning to execution and selling produce to off-takers at fair market prices. GAP’s processing technology also incorporates solar energy, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and efficiency.
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GAP’s impact has earned global recognition, including the Sankalp West Africa Enterprise Award (2023) for empowering smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable palm oil production. The company also won the Flourish Prize (2019) for agricultural innovation. With a mission rooted in entrepreneurship, sustainability, and social change, Green Afro-Palms continues to push boundaries in agribusiness, enhancing food security and economic development across Africa.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#africanfarming #africanagriculture #panafrican #africanbusiness #africanstartups #ghanabusiness #spotlightinafrica

Twiga Foods is a pioneering agritech startup transforming food distribution in Africa by leveraging technology to connect small-scale farmers and food vendors directly to markets. Founded in 2014 by Peter Njonjo, Twiga streamlines Africa’s fragmented food supply chains, ensuring farmers receive fair prices while vendors gain reliable access to fresh produce and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs). By integrating mobile technology, logistics, and data analytics, Twiga reduces post-harvest losses, eliminates costly middlemen, and improves food affordability, serving over 140,000 vendors across Kenya. Recognized for its impact in agritech and supply chain efficiency, Twiga was ranked 35th on Fast Company’s 2020 list of the Most Innovative Companies globally.
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Despite agriculture contributing around 22% to Kenya’s GDP, the sector receives less than 3% of bank lending, largely due to perceived risks and informality. Peter, a seasoned entrepreneur and former Coca-Cola West and Central Africa President, saw this gap as an opportunity to modernize food supply chains and increase investment in the sector. By using technology-driven solutions, Twiga is helping farmers scale their businesses, while providing retailers with a steady, cost-effective supply of produce and essential goods.
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Under Peter’s leadership, Twiga has secured over $100 million from investors like Goldman Sachs, IFC, and Creadev, positioning itself as one of Africa’s most promising startups. As global disruptions continue to threaten food security, Twiga is reducing reliance on imports by strengthening local agricultural value chains. With ambitious plans for regional expansion, Twiga remains at the forefront of solving Africa’s food distribution challenges, while Peter continues to champion innovation in agribusiness and supply chain transformation.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ʀᴇᴠᴏʟᴜᴛɪᴏɴᴀʀʏ ɪɴɪᴛɪᴀᴛɪᴠᴇs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#twigafoods #peternjonjo #africanagriculture #africanbusiness #africanentrepreneurs #panafrican #nairobibusiness #kenyabusiness #africanstartup #africaninnovation #africanfarmers #eastafrica #spotlightinafrica

“What remains key is to find something that you’re truly passionate about, look at that idea in the short-term, long-term and go with your gut feeling.” - Patrick Ngowi.
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Patrick Ngowi is a celebrated Tanzanian entrepreneur, environmentalist, and philanthropist renowned for his transformative contributions to Africa’s renewable energy sector. In 2007, he founded Helvetic Solar Contractors, a pioneering company specializing in the supply and installation of solar equipment across Tanzania and East Africa. By addressing the region’s critical energy access challenges, Helvetic Solar has provided sustainable solutions to rural and urban communities, completing over 6,000 rooftop solar installations across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi.
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Patrick’s entrepreneurial journey began at the age of 15 when he started selling mobile phone vouchers in his hometown, learning key business skills. Recognizing the growing demand for mobile technology, he began importing affordable mobile phones from China and selling them in Tanzania, earning $150,000 by the time he was 18. These ventures introduced him to solar energy’s potential, inspiring him to focus on renewable energy solutions, which became the foundation of his success.
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Beyond his business endeavors, Patrick is committed to philanthropy. He established the Light for Life Foundation, which empowers women and youth in rural Tanzania by providing free solar and small wind power systems to improve electricity access. His contributions have earned widespread recognition, including being named one of the 100 Most Influential Africans by the Africa Youth Awards in 2016 and winning the East Africa Young Business Leader of the Year Award in 2014. He also served as a UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Pioneer from 2016 to 2019 and is the Chairman of the UN Global Compact in Tanzania. Patrick Ngowi’s inspiring journey continues to motivate future innovators and drive sustainable development across Africa.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#africanbusiness #africanentrepreneurs #tanzaniabusiness #spotlightinafrica

“Offer value. Focus on how you can help people.” - Kennedy Ekezie-Joseph.
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Kennedy Ekezie-Joseph is a visionary innovator in technology, dedicated to driving economic success in emerging markets, youth development, and education. He is the co-founder and CEO of Kippa, a financial management platform designed to support over 100 million small and medium-sized African businesses (SMBs) by providing them with seamless digital tools for sustainable growth. In just three years, Kippa has collaborated with over 800,000 SMBs, facilitating $3 billion in annual transactions and attracting more than $10 million in investment from international backers.
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Ekezie-Joseph’s journey has been marked by significant milestones that cement his role as a key figure in Africa’s tech ecosystem. He previously worked at Accenture and ByteDance, where he led TikTok’s African expansion, helping it grow into the second most popular app on the continent, with over 100 million users in five years. His influence extends beyond business—at just 16, while a college freshman, he launched a social venture focused on expanding women’s rights in Nigeria, particularly by fighting female genital mutilation and increasing educational access for girls. A sought-after speaker, he has addressed audiences at Harvard Business School, the United Nations Youth Assembly, and TEDx events, covering topics on technology, diversity, and entrepreneurship.
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Ekezie-Joseph’s impact has earned him recognition from global leaders. In 2018, Queen Elizabeth II awarded him the Queen’s Young Leaders Award for raising over $2 million to launch a mentorship program for young Africans. He was also recognized by former U.S. President Barack Obama as part of the Young African Leaders Initiative and most recently won The Future Awards Africa Prize for Technology. Kennedy remains committed to unlocking the potential of young people, advocating for a future driven by personal accountability, optimism, and economic empowerment.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#africanbusiness #africanentrepreneurs #kippa #spotlightinafrica

“It is only out of suffering that you get better. You will never grow if you don’t suffer.” - Steve Komphela.
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Steve Komphela is a prominent personality and respected figure in South African football, both as a former player and an accomplished coach. Currently Senior Coach at Mamelodi Sundowns, he bridges management, players, and technical staff while identifying young talent for the senior team. Known for his structured training methods, he ensures tactical discipline and peak player performance. As a defender, he earned 24 caps for Bafana Bafana between 1992 and 1995 and played in Turkey for Gaziantepspor and Çanakkale Dardanelspor before transitioning into coaching.
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Komphela began his managerial career in 2002 with Manning Rangers, later coaching Free State Stars, Maritzburg United, and Kaizer Chiefs, earning widespread respect for his tactical expertise. He was named Absa Premiership Coach of the Month in August 2018 while managing Bloemfontein Celtic. His career has included key roles at Mamelodi Sundowns (2020-2022), Swallows FC (2023), and Golden Arrows (2024) before rejoining Sundowns in July 2024. His deep understanding of the game and talent development continues to make him one of South Africa’s most sought-after coaches.
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Beyond the pitch, Komphela is an eloquent public speaker and mentor, frequently sharing insights on leadership, personal development, and sportsmanship at various platforms and events. His influence extends beyond football, inspiring individuals across industries. With his vast experience, commitment to player development, and passion for education, he continues to shape the future of South African football, leaving a lasting impact on the next generation of athletes.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#africanfootball #southafricanfootball #africansports #africanmotivation #southafricanbusiness #southafricanentrepreneur #africanbusiness #africanentrepreneurs #panafrica #quoteoftheweek #africaninvestors #africaneconomy #africanstartups #spotlightinafrica

In this issue, Joseph Kibur shares insights on launching and scaling businesses, navigating Africa’s markets, and why the continent must take an active role in shaping AI’s evolution. As a serial entrepreneur, investor, and thought leader, Joseph is championing a new generation of African voices in the rapidly evolving tech space, while rewriting Africa’s narrative on the global stage.

Don’t miss out! Click the link in bio for more 👆🏾
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#spotlightinafrica #africanbusiness #africantech #africaneconomy #africanentrepreneurs #africaninvestors #digitalmagazine

📢 It’s finally here! The latest edition is now available featuring Joseph Kibur, a trailblazing entrepreneur shaping Africa’s role in the global tech revolution. Over the past 30 years, he has launched more than a dozen startups, including one he scaled to a $250 million market cap—making him the first Ethiopian to list a company on the NASDAQ stock exchange. A former elite track and field athlete, Joseph shares how sports shaped his approach to business, fueling his success across multiple ventures, including a partnership with Olympic gold medalist Haile Gebrselassie.

Now focused on artificial intelligence, a technology he believes will rival or even surpass the impact of electricity, Joseph is determined to ensure Africans are fully represented in this transformation. To drive this vision, he founded Yaya Labs, an AI research and development firm, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in AI.

In this issue, he shares insights on launching and scaling businesses, navigating Africa’s markets, and why the continent must take an active role in shaping AI’s evolution. As a serial entrepreneur, investor, and thought leader, Joseph is championing a new generation of African voices in the rapidly evolving tech space, while rewriting Africa’s narrative on the global stage.

This edition also spotlights Mahlet Yohannes @globetrotter1_ , a seasoned aviation professional who illuminates the challenges, opportunities and future of African aviation. Plus, stay informed with trailblazing initiatives @maliyogames, @khula_ecosystem, economic news, radiant eats & retreats - and much more!

Click the link in bio for more 👆🏾
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#spotlightinafrica #africanbusiness #africaneconomy #africanentrepreneurs #africaninvestors #africantech #digitalmagazine

The 12th edition of Spotlight in Africa Digital Magazine is officially out, with Joseph Kibur❗️

Delve into the remarkable journey of Joseph Kibur, a trailblazing entrepreneur shaping Africa’s role in the global tech revolution. Over the past 30 years, he has launched more than a dozen startups, including one he scaled to a $250 million market cap—making him the first Ethiopian to list a company on the NASDAQ stock exchange.

Now focused on artificial intelligence, a technology he believes will rival or even surpass the impact of electricity, Joseph is determined to ensure Africans are fully represented in this transformation. To drive this vision, he founded Yaya Labs, an AI research and development firm, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in AI.

For more on how Africa can leverage AI to rewrite its own narrative, click the link in bio 👆🏾
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#spotlightinafrica #africanbusiness #africaneconomy #africanentrepreneurs #africaninvestors #africantech #africanAI #digitalmagazine

Burundi is embarking on an ambitious journey to address its rising public debt, which surged by 18% to BIF 6,150.8 billion in 2023. Sweeping reforms have been launched to tackle fiscal imbalances, revitalize the economy, and secure a sustainable financial trajectory. At the heart of these efforts are a revised state budget, the digitization of revenue collection systems, and a pivotal collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
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The new budget emphasizes fiscal discipline by prioritizing essential expenditures, deferring foreign currency-dependent projects to the next fiscal year, and suspending non-salary activities for several agencies in the latter half of the year. Simultaneously, the government is modernizing the Burundian Revenue Authority (OBR) with digital tools to boost tax collection, close revenue gaps, and strengthen the fiscal framework.
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A key element of these reforms is a 38-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) from the IMF, valued at $271 million, which aims to reduce debt, recalibrate monetary policy, and drive governance reforms. An initial disbursement of $62 million is already earmarked to address balance-of-payment challenges and reinforce external financial buffers.
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While agriculture still contributes nearly 40% of GDP, and challenges such as a 70% poverty rate, political instability, and limited industrial development persist, Burundi is prioritizing economic diversification. The government is focusing on sectors like mining, renewable energy, and regional trade through its East African Community (EAC) membership, while seeking to unlock its natural resource wealth. Despite hurdles such as weak infrastructure and climate risks, these comprehensive reforms mark a determined effort to build a more resilient and inclusive economy for long-term prosperity.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ʀᴇᴠᴏʟᴜᴛɪᴏɴᴀʀʏ ɪɴɪᴛɪᴀᴛɪᴠᴇs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#burundi #eastafrica #africanfinance #africanentrepreneurs africaneconomy #africanbusiness #burundibusiness #panafrica #africantrade #spotlightinafrica

Yacob Berhane is a visionary entrepreneur and the co-founder of Pariti, a Nairobi-based startup that is redefining the entrepreneurial ecosystem in emerging markets. Founded in 2019 alongside Wossen Ayele, Pariti serves as a dynamic talent network platform that connects startups with skilled professionals, investors, and global experts. The platform provides advisory and consulting services, enabling startups to hire the right talent, secure capital, and scale efficiently. In 2021, Pariti secured $2.85 million in seed funding led by Harlem Capital, solidifying its mission to build stronger startup ecosystems across Africa and other emerging markets.
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Pariti stands out for its commitment to bridging gaps in access to resources and expertise for businesses in developing regions. By leveraging its marketplace model, the company fosters collaboration between startups and a global pool of investors and advisors, helping businesses navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities. Its impact is especially pronounced in regions where capital and skilled talent are traditionally limited, making Pariti an invaluable resource for entrepreneurial growth. The company has also played a pivotal role in cultivating investor confidence in African startups, supporting founders to position themselves effectively in competitive global markets.
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In June 2024, Pariti announced a groundbreaking collaboration with NVIDIA’s Deep Learning Institute to train over 2,000 developers in AI and deep learning technologies. This initiative targets university students across Kenya, Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria, equipping them with cutting-edge skills and certifications to drive innovation in AI. By empowering the next generation of developers with specialized training, Pariti is not only fostering talent but also accelerating technological advancements in Africa. Through strategic partnerships and an unwavering commitment to empowering businesses under CEO Yacob Berhane, Pariti is shaping the future of entrepreneurship and technology across emerging markets.
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✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ

The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) World Economic Outlook report forecasts Sub-Saharan Africa’s economic growth to reach 4.2% in 2025, surpassing the global average of 3.3%. This improved trajectory, expected to continue into 2026, reflects easing weather shocks and supply constraints. Inflation is projected to decline faster in 2025, though it will remain higher than earlier forecasts for 2026.
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Despite this optimistic forecast, growth in the region remains subdued and uneven, hindered by natural disasters, conflicts, and limited access to financing. External risks, such as a strong US dollar and tighter global financial conditions, pose challenges, particularly for countries already burdened with excessive debt and constrained fiscal capacity.
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The IMF projects nine of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies in 2025 to be in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), led by South Sudan with 27% growth, rebounding from last year’s 26% contraction caused by pipeline disruptions. Other standout SSA economies include Senegal (9.3%), Uganda (7.5%), and Niger (7.3%), followed by Zambia, Benin, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Côte d’Ivoire, all projected to grow by roughly 6.5%. In contrast, two of the region’s largest economies, South Africa and Nigeria, are expected to grow modestly at 1.5% and 3.2%, respectively, with Nigeria’s outlook aligning with other oil-exporting nations. Equatorial Guinea, projected to contract by 4.8%, will be the only African economy to shrink in 2025.
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The varying growth rates highlight the critical need for resource-dependent countries to diversify their economies. Investments in infrastructure, education, and private-sector development are essential to building resilience against external shocks and volatile commodity prices. For instance, Rwanda’s focus on technology-enabled services has helped foster steady growth and economic transformation. Additionally, reducing external vulnerabilities and boosting resilience will require greater regional cooperation through initiatives like the AfCFTA, which aims to increase intra-African trade and create a unified market.
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✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ!
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Source: IMF & Semafor

Funkidz Limited, founded by Ciiru Waithaka, is a Kenyan-based company driving creativity and innovation in the manufacturing industry. The business utilizes cutting-edge technology, such as computer-controlled cutting machines, to design and produce a variety of products for children aged 0-16 years. These include furniture and educational tools tailored to meet the diverse needs of children. One of its standout brands, Kidz Go Tech, focuses on transforming education in Africa by integrating 21st-century learning methods such as technology, robotics, and animation.
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Funkidz has adopted the circular economic model, a forward-thinking approach aimed at minimizing waste by reducing, reusing, and recycling materials. This innovative strategy emerged in response to Kenya’s ban on logging, allowing the company to conserve the environment while lowering production costs. Funkidz collaborates with other businesses to source timber waste from schools, homes, offices, and farms. It also repurposes agricultural by-products, such as rice husks, compressing them into boards that are used to create sustainable and affordable furniture, ceiling boards, and classroom partitions for Kenyan children and schools.
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Funkidz’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has earned it international acclaim. The company received the Women 4 Tech Award from GSMA in 2017 for leveraging mobile technology to provide children with hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, Kenya’s Ministry of Environment honored Funkidz in March 2019 for its innovative solutions to environmental challenges and its support for sustainable production and consumption. These accolades underscore Funkidz’s role in using sustainable principles to revolutionize how children in Africa learn and live.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ʀᴇᴠᴏʟᴜᴛɪᴏɴᴀʀʏ ɪɴɪᴛɪᴀᴛɪᴠᴇs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#funkidz #africaneducation #africaninnovation #kenyanbusiness #kenyanentrepreneurs #africanentrepreneur #eastafrica #africanstartup #africanbusiness #panafrican #africantech #eastafrican #kenyanmade #nairobibusiness #africandiaspora #madeinkenya #spotlightinafrica

Wami Agro Limited is a Ghanaian agritech company dedicated to empowering smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture. Co-founded in 2020 by Caleb Edwards and Jonah Tuokpier, the company leverages technology-driven solutions to secure sustainable sourcing, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and protect the environment. With a mission to address key challenges in agriculture, Wami Agro has become a vital player in enhancing productivity and resilience across Ghana’s agricultural sector.
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Operating in six regions, Wami Agro supports over 14,000 smallholder farmers, enabling them to grow and distribute diverse crops, including rice, maize, soybeans, sorghum, vegetables, and root tubers. Supplying high-quality produce to FMCG companies, bulk food distributors, animal feed processors, and food service businesses, Wami strengthens farmers’ resilience by providing input credit, fair trade market access, and education, ensuring stable incomes for thousands of families.
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The company equips farmers with tailored input prescriptions and training to optimize yields. Recognized for its innovation, Wami Agro was nominated for Agritech Innovation Startup of the Year at the Ghana Innovation and Startup Awards in 2023. Its growth is further fueled by investments, including $227,000 in seed funding from Wangara Green Ventures and a significant undisclosed investment in 2024 from Mirepa Investment Advisors, a leading Ghanaian firm. These efforts reflect a shared vision to transform Ghana’s agricultural landscape and ensure food security.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#wamiagro #digitalfarming #africanbusiness #africaninnovation #africanentrepreneurs #ruralafrica #connectingafrica #africantech #greenafrica #sustainableafrica #africanentrepreneurs #africanfarming #africanecommerce #africanbusiness #westafrica #africandiaspora #ghanabusiness #forbesafrica #madeinafrica #ghanaentrepreneurs #ghanaian #digitalafrica #madeinafrica #spotlightinafrica

“If you love something you will do anything to make sure that you realize the potential of what could become.” Sibongile Sambo.
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Sibongile Sambo is a trailblazer in African aviation and the founder and managing director of SRS Aviation, the first Black female-owned aviation company on the continent. Her journey began in 2004 when, after being rejected for a flight attendant position due to height requirements, she decided to chart her own path. With no formal aviation experience and relying on family loans, Sibongile launched SRS Aviation, which now offers services such as VIP and tourist charters, cargo transport, and helicopter operations for domestic and international clients.
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SRS Aviation’s breakthrough came with a government cargo transport contract, and it has since expanded into distributing aircraft spare parts for aerospace industries across Africa. This diversification has established SRS Aviation as a critical player in the sector, transforming a male-dominated industry through innovation and inclusivity.
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Sibongile’s leadership and impact have earned her numerous accolades, including the Black Woman in Business Awards (BIBA), Impumelelo Top Female Entrepreneur of the Year, and the International Women’s Entrepreneurial Challenge (IWEC). She was also named a “Leader of Tomorrow” by Fortune magazine and featured on Forbes’ “Ten Young African Millionaires to Watch.”
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Beyond her business success, Sibongile advocates for empowering women and youth through initiatives like Southern African Women in Aviation (SAWIA), which offers scholarships and training to encourage women to enter aviation. Her leadership has inspired greater diversity and inclusion in the industry, motivating women across Africa to pursue their ambitions.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightethio ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#srsaviation #africanaviation #africanbusinesswoman #southafricanbusiness #southafricanentrepreneur #africanbusiness #africanentrepreneurs #panafrica #quoteoftheweek #africaninvestors #africaneconomy #africanstartups #spotlightinafrica

“When you have passion and have that positive energy, it is very contagious and it affects people around you.” - Abiola Bawuah.
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Abiola Bawuah is a renowned Ghanaian finance expert, business leader, and philanthropist, celebrated for her impact in the African banking sector and commitment to empowering marginalized communities. In 2023, she made history as the first woman appointed CEO of United Bank for Africa (UBA) for African operations. Under her visionary leadership, UBA achieved remarkable growth, cementing its position as a leading financial institution on the continent. Her strategic initiatives focused on leveraging technology, enhancing customer experiences, and fostering financial inclusion and sustainable development across Africa.
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Beyond her illustrious finance career, Abiola is deeply committed to philanthropy. In 2018, she founded The Abiola Bawuah Foundation (ABF), a non-profit organization dedicated to gender equality through education. Its flagship initiative, the 100 Girls Support Project, promotes academic excellence among brilliant but underprivileged girls in rural Ghana, providing them with the resources and opportunities to thrive.
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Abiola’s achievements are underpinned by leadership certifications from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, Columbia University, INSEAD, and Institut Villa Pierrefeu in Switzerland. Her contributions to business and philanthropy have earned her widespread acclaim, including being named Woman of the Year by the EMY Africa Awards in 2020 and receiving the Humanitarian of the Year honor at the Humanitarian Awards Global in 2021. Through her exceptional leadership, Abiola Bawuah continues to inspire change, empower the next generation, and advance Africa’s socio-economic landscape.

👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#quoteoftheweek #nigerianentrepreneur #futureafrica #africaneconomy #africanleader #nigerianbusiness #nigerianbusinesswoman #africanstartups #forbesafrica #africanentrepreneurs #africanbusiness #unitedbankforafrica #africandiaspora #spotlightinafrica

“Find out what is a good business idea by listening to the market. Don’t think you will learn a good business from reading a book or researching only. Research is important, but you need to talk to a customer.” - Patrick Bitature.
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Dr. Patrick Bitature is a distinguished Ugandan entrepreneur, business magnate, and philanthropist who has significantly shaped East Africa’s economic landscape through his innovative ventures. As the founder and Chairman of the Simba Group of Companies, Bitature leads a diverse conglomerate with interests in telecommunications, energy production, real estate, mining, media, and hospitality. Starting in 1998 with Simba Telecom, the company grew from a humble shop to becoming East Africa’s largest airtime distributor, mobile phone retailer, and mobile money distributor, solidifying its position as a key player in the region’s telecommunications sector.
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Under Bitature’s leadership, the Simba Group made significant investments in energy production, focusing on renewable solutions and industrial-scale electricity generation to address regional energy deficits. With a workforce comprising thousands of direct and indirect employees, the Simba Group is a cornerstone of economic development and job creation in East Africa.
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Beyond his business ventures, Dr. Bitature is a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship and education. As the Chancellor of Uganda Technology and Management University (UTAMU), he champions innovation and knowledge-sharing to empower the next generation of African leaders. His achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including Entrepreneur of the Year at the African Tourism Leadership Forum. Through his ventures and philanthropic efforts, Bitature continues to drive sustainable growth and development across Africa.
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👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴘᴇᴏᴘʟᴇ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#patrickbitature #simbagroup #africanmotivation #africantech #africanbusinessman #eastafrica #africanentrepreneurs #ugandanbusiness #panafrican #ugandanentrepreneurs #kampalabusiness #forbesafrica #spotlightinafrica

ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ʀᴇᴠᴏʟᴜᴛɪᴏɴᴀʀʏ ɪɴɪᴛɪᴀᴛɪᴠᴇs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ
✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ!
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#africanstartups #africanyouth #africansolutions #greenafrica #africanunion #africancompanies #africanbusiness #africaninvestors #africanfinance #southafricanbusiness #kenyanbusiness #nigerianbusinesses #africangrowth #ethiopianbusiness #eastafrica #ethiopianstartups #africandevelopment #africantrade #africaneconomy #addisababa #ethiopia #eastafrican #ethiopian #habesha #habeshabusiness #madeinethiopia #madeinafrica #spotlightinafrica

Ethiopia has officially launched its first stock exchange, the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), marking a significant milestone in the country’s economic development. As the most populous country without an exchange—home to some 130 million people—this launch addresses a critical gap in Ethiopia’s financial infrastructure. Established in collaboration with Ethiopia Investment Holdings, the Ministry of Finance, and Nairobi-based FSD Africa, the ESX is part of broader macroeconomic reforms, which also include the central bank floating the birr after half a century of control and allowing foreign banks to operate in the country.
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The ESX aims to enhance governance and transparency, enabling domestic businesses to raise capital without relying solely on bank loans. This new platform is expected to drive consolidation in sectors like banking and insurance while providing entrepreneurs with exit strategies through IPOs. Additionally, the exchange hopes to attract 50 listings within the next five years, further expanding opportunities for businesses and investors. It will also play a crucial role in funding infrastructure projects and creating a virtuous cycle of growth for listed companies, pension funds, and Ethiopia’s broader capital market.
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To promote inclusivity, the ESX has been granted an Over-the-Counter platform by the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority, allowing smaller businesses to access capital despite not meeting the stricter requirements for the main exchange. This approach democratizes Ethiopia’s capital markets, fostering broader participation and enabling businesses of all sizes to thrive in the evolving financial landscape.
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Despite its potential, the ESX faces challenges due to Ethiopia’s historically public sector-driven economy. A cautious approach is required to liberalize the banking sector, insurance, and payment systems, with clear regulatory timelines to instill investor confidence. Investments in infrastructure, information dissemination, and talent development will also be critical in ensuring the success of the ESX and Ethiopia’s transition to a more liberalized and dynamic economy.
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✅ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightinafrica ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ!

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Latest News - Spotlight In Africa | Business, Innovation & Economic Insights Across Africa

Growth Opportunities in Africa | Emerging Markets & Business Expansion

Burundi's Bold Economic Modernization

Launching Ethiopia's First Stock Exchange

Boosting Climate Finance With Green Banks

Innovative Financing For Nature Conservation

Economy - Africa’s Economic Trends | Markets, Trade & Investment Insights

Africa Can Unlock $3.4 Billion Through Regional Trade

Burundi's Bold Economic Modernization

Nine of the Top 20 Performing Economics in the World to come from Sub-Saharan Africa in 2025

Sub-Saharan Africa is Expected to Double its Renewable Energy Capacity by 2030

Entrepreneurs - Meet Africa’s Top Entrepreneurs | Success Stories & Business Insights

Green Afro-Palms: Empowering Smallholder Farmers

Funkidz Limited: Innovation Meets Sustainability

Maliyo Games: Shaping the Future of African Gaming

Africa's Talking: Pan-African Tech Enabler

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