For the longest time, Africa was only associated with vices such as poverty and suffering. However, the narrative is changing. African tech pioneers are constantly proving that the continent gives birth to intelligent, innovative individuals who are making waves in Africa’s tech scene.
In no particular order, here are 5 Inspiring African Tech Pioneers:
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5 Inspiring African Tech Pioneers.
Tunde Kehinde (Nigeria) – Co-Founder of Jumia
Often referred to as the “Amazon of Africa”, Jumia is Africa’s largest e-commerce platform. Kehinde’s leadership played a vital role in shaping e-commerce in Africa. The continent’s market commonly faced obstacles with logistics and payment solutions; his innovations helped tackle these.
As a result, Jumia has extended its reach to various countries, connecting thousands of sellers with buyers. This promotes e-commerce in Africa by granting businesses access to a much larger audience, thereby creating more jobs and enhancing economic growth.
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (Nigeria) – Co-Founder of Flutterwave
One of the leading fintech companies in Africa, Flutterwave’s mission is to simplify payments for enterprises in Africa and beyond. Under Aboyeji’s leadership, it has achieved the following groundbreaking fintech solutions:
- Providing businesses with seamless, reliable payment systems
- Connecting African businesses with international markets
- Versatility in offering various payment options and services (mobile money, card payments, bank transfers)
Consequently, these achievements facilitate financial inclusion and economic growth. Through his vision and novelty, Aboyeji solidified Flutterwave’s position as one of the leading parties when it comes to fintech in Africa.
Dr. Moka Lantum (Cameroon) – CEO of MicroClinic Technologies
MicroClinic Technologies (based in Kenya) has developed many notable health tech innovations.
Its pioneer, Dr. Moka Lantum, is an entrepreneur/medical doctor who uses technology to enhance healthcare delivery and access. Thanks to his telemedicine platforms, patients can enjoy the convenience of remote consultations with healthcare providers.
There’s also the development of electronic medical record systems – a sophisticated innovation that stores patient data and simplifies processes such as patient registration, billing, and scheduling of appointments. All in all, health tech in Africa has reached new heights. MicroClinic Technologies has played a crucial role in elevating the quality, efficiency and delivery of healthcare in Africa.
Aysen Candas Etez (Egypt) – CEO of Infinity Solar
Aysen Candas Etez is an avid supporter of clean, sustainable energy in Egypt and Africa as a whole. One of Infinity Solar’s notable acts is the implementation of photovoltaic installations and wind farms.
Harnessing clean energy sources, Infinity Solar protects the environment and helps preserve natural resources.
Also, they’ve changed lives for the better through the provision of steady, reliable electricity. As a result, economic growth has drastically improved.
Aysen Candas Etez remains a true inspiration to African women in the renewable energy sector.
Charlette N’Guessan (Ivory Coast) Co-Founder of BACE Group
This African tech pioneer came into the limelight after developing the first facial recognition technology designed specially for African faces. Facing the lack of diversity and black representation in facial recognition technology, she co-founded BACE Group to tackle this.
The resulting BACE API is an excellent asset in security systems. Her work has been recognized internationally and in 2020 the MIT Technology Review named her one of the “Innovators Under 35.”
She’s not only a tech trailblazer, but actively promotes diversity and inclusivity.
Final Thought on African Tech Pioneers
From Nigeria to Ivory Coast, these men and women have defied the odds and propelled Africa to new heights. And these are only a few examples of exceptional individuals making waves in Africa’s tech space. By supporting their efforts, we can promote technological innovations not just in Africa, but worldwide.
Amazing!👏🏾