AfriLabs, the leading network of technology and innovation hubs in Africa, has announced the addition of 18 new hubs to its community.
This expansion brings the total number of hubs within the network to 496, spread across 261 cities in 53 African nations.
The newly admitted hubs represent a diverse range of regions and sectors, strengthening AfriLabs’ presence across the continent.
Notable additions include the SU LaunchLab in Stellenbosch, South Africa, marking AfriLabs’ first presence in the city.
Other notable additions include ScaleUp Namibia, OceanHub Africa, and the Graca Machel Trust’s Women Creating Wealth initiative in Southern Africa.
In North Africa, DigiArtLivingLab (DALL) has joined the network in Tunis and Nabeul, Tunisia, alongside Connect’Innov and The Dot.
Egypt has also welcomed PTS Investments Holdings and Aria Ventures to its network.
Western Africa has seen the addition of Mswitch in Abuja, Nigeria, while Eastern Africa has welcomed AFRICA TECH SPACE in Nakuru, Kenya; Owl Innovation Labs in Nairobi, Kenya; RLabs Tanzania in Iringa, Tanzania; and AfriFORTIFIED HUB in Kisumu, Kenya.
Central Africa has expanded its network with Ovation and KIVUTECH in Kinshasa and Bukavu, DRC, respectively; Revival Innovation Hub in Bua, Cameroon; and DIAMBILAY BUSINESS CENTER in Lubumbashi, DR Congo.
“We are thrilled to welcome these new hubs to our growing community,” said Mayssa Mrabet, AfriLabs director of community.
“Their unique perspectives and contributions will further strengthen our ability to drive innovation and entrepreneurship across the continent.”
Senegalese startup Kwely has secured funding from Fuzé, a venture capital arm of leading investment group Digital Africa.
LeaseSurance, a South African insurtech startup that has developed a platform to replace security deposits in rental real estate, has raised $161,000 in seed funding.
Ampersand, Africa’s pioneering electric transport energy company, has secured $19.5 million in funding to scale its operations across the continent.