This unveiling marks a significant stride in Kenya’s efforts to embrace clean energy solutions and reduce the carbon footprint of its transportation sector.

Basigo’s introduction of the E9 Kubwa electric bus model is a testament to the country’s commitment to environmental preservation and its ambition to lead the way in sustainable mobility.

As global conversations about climate change intensify, the launch of this electric bus model signifies a decisive step forward in transforming the public transportation landscape.

The E9 Kubwa electric bus boasts a range of features that set it apart as a game-changer in the transportation sector.

Powered solely by electricity, the E9 Kubwa produces zero tailpipe emissions, improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The bus has an extended range, meaning it can cover substantial distances on a single charge, making it a viable option for various urban and intercity routes.

The E9 Kubwa bus also incorporates cutting-edge technology for enhanced safety, comfort, and efficiency, making it a reliable and futuristic choice for passengers and operators alike.

Basigo’s commitment to innovation aligns with Kenya’s broader vision to promote clean energy adoption and build a sustainable future.

Basigo’s E9 Kubwa model encourages other countries and manufacturers to explore greener transportation alternatives by showcasing the viability of electric buses.

The initiative, designed to uplift and support women in business, has garnered attention as a beacon of progress in fostering gender inclusivity within the tech and entrepreneurial sectors.

Empowering African Women Entrepreneurs

The Future is Female Mentorship Programme, now in its fourth year, aims to address the gender imbalance prevalent in the startup landscape by providing mentorship, guidance, and resources to women-led businesses across the African continent.

The programme’s commitment to nurturing a more inclusive entrepreneurial environment has not only fostered women’s empowerment but also sparked innovative ventures that contribute to economic growth and societal transformation.

20 Startups, 20 Visions

After a meticulous selection process, 20 exceptional startups have been picked to participate in this year’s mentorship programme.

Nine of the selected founders are from Nigeria, namely Al Hassan Keita, founder of EtioneraPay; Jennifer Echenim, founder of Bloccpay; Gold Sylvester, founder of Traddify; Ngozi Nwabueze, founder of PocketLawyers; Sarah Odiavbara, founder of Craftmerce; Olawunmi Akalusi, founder of Rísé NG; Bibi Ikuemonisan, founder of FarmCorps; Joy Akparobore, founder of VAMUZ; and Kemi Ogunkoya, founder of LeaderX.

Six others are from Kenya, namely Celeste Tchetgen Vogel, founder of e-Waka Mobility; Juliet (Shiro) Njoroge, founder of Mosmos Africa; Natasha Makindu, founder of Paydel; Fridah Karani, founder of Hela Money; Jackie Kamau, founder of The Laundry Lady; and Elizabeth Nduta, founder of Gwiji.

Mai Shakweer, founder of Egypt’s AutoMechanic; Jacqui Rogers, founder of South Africa’s My Pregnancy Journey; Sophia Abeid, founder of Tanzania’s Vide; Rym Bourguiba, founder of Tunisia’s WildyNess; and Vwanganji Amatende-Bowa, founder of Zambia’s Mightyfinance, complete the cohort.

These startups, hailing from various African countries and spanning diverse industries, reflect the breadth of innovation emerging from the continent.

Ranging from fintech to agritech, healthcare to e-commerce, the selected startups showcase the depth of women’s entrepreneurship and their ability to drive change in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

Mentorship, Collaboration, and Growth

The chosen startups will now have the opportunity to engage with seasoned mentors, industry experts, and successful entrepreneurs who will provide invaluable insights, guidance, and support throughout the programme’s duration.

Through personalized mentorship, workshops, networking events, and exposure to investment opportunities, the participating women entrepreneurs will be equipped with the tools necessary to scale their businesses and create lasting impact in their respective markets.

Championing Diversity for a Stronger Future

The 4th edition of the Future is Female Mentorship Programme marks a remarkable step forward in the ongoing quest for gender equality and representation within the African startup ecosystem.

By fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and mentorship, the programme not only empowers women-led startups but also contributes to the creation of a more diverse, resilient, and innovative business landscape.

The Road Ahead

The 4th Future is Female Mentorship Programme is set to kick off with an official launch event, where the chosen startups will be introduced to their mentors and fellow participants.

This collaboration signals a significant advancement in the region’s payment landscape, providing consumers with enhanced flexibility in managing their purchases.

Lipa Later has emerged as a pioneer in offering innovative credit solutions that allow consumers to make purchases and pay for them in installments.

This strategic alliance with Mastercard will amplify Lipa Later’s reach and impact, bringing BNPL options to a broader audience across the African continent.

The partnership aligns well with the growing trend of BNPL solutions gaining traction globally, as consumers seek more flexible and manageable ways to make purchases. 

Through its technology and network, Mastercard will empower Lipa Later to scale its BNPL services efficiently and securely across multiple markets.

By allowing consumers to spread payments over time, BNPL solutions offer an alternative to traditional credit options and align with changing consumer preferences.

The Lipa Later-Mastercard partnership signifies a noteworthy advancement in the African fintech landscape, as BNPL solutions gain momentum and become an increasingly integral part of modern commerce.

This collaboration holds the potential to reshape consumer behavior and financial access, ultimately contributing to more inclusive and digitally empowered economies across the continent.

The move marks a significant milestone for the region’s startup ecosystem as Antler seeks to empower aspiring entrepreneurs and drive innovation by providing essential financial support and mentorship.

The $60 million Fund is specifically earmarked to invest in early-stage startups with exceptional promise and potential across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, fintech, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence.

North Africa has increasingly gained traction as a fertile ground for startups and innovation, with many entrepreneurs tackling complex challenges and developing disruptive solutions.

With Antler’s entry into the scene, aspiring founders can now access the resources and support needed to turn their visionary ideas into reality.

Antler adopts a unique approach to investing by building companies from the ground up, providing selected founders with an initial capital injection and an immersive program that offers hands-on support, mentorship, and access to a vast global network of experts and investors.

The partnership aims to revolutionize transportation in the region, reduce carbon emissions, and pave the way for a greener future.

The three countries selected for this transformative initiative are Kenya, Togo, and Rwanda.

Bboxx is widely recognized for its innovative solar-powered solutions, offering clean and affordable electricity to off-grid communities in Africa and beyond.

The company’s partnership with Spiro, an electric vehicle mobility startup, is expected to extend the reach of clean energy into the transportation sector and contribute significantly to reducing the carbon footprint in the selected countries.

Spiro brings its expertise in developing electric two-wheelers, a popular mode of transportation in densely populated urban areas across Africa.

By combining Bboxx’s solar energy infrastructure with Spiro’s electric scooters and motorcycles, the partnership aims to create a powerful and sustainable mobility solution that caters to the needs of commuters and delivery services alike.

The three selected countries present an ideal setting for the adoption of electric mobility solutions.

In Kenya, the bustling urban centers and rapidly growing population make sustainable transportation options a necessity.

In Rwanda, the East African country has made a commitment to environmental sustainability and green initiatives.

The joint efforts of Bboxx and Spiro are expected to result in the deployment of electric scooters and motorcycles in key urban areas within the three countries. 

These electric vehicles will be powered by Bboxx’s solar-powered charging stations, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

As Africa continues to face the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change, the Bboxx-Spiro partnership stands as a shining example of how innovation and collaboration can address these issues head-on.

By accelerating the adoption of electric mobility, this transformative initiative has the potential to create a significant positive impact on the environment, public health, and the overall quality of life for people across Kenya, Togo, and Rwanda.

The partnership’s success is expected to inspire similar endeavors in other African nations, further propelling the continent towards a sustainable and carbon-neutral future.

The facility will manufacture 50,000 electric motorbikes annually, with the aim of reducing carbon emissions, alleviating urban congestion, and bolstering the country’s green economy.

The grand inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent government officials, industry leaders, and environmental advocates, symbolizing the importance of this milestone in Kenya’s journey towards embracing electric mobility and clean energy alternatives.

Substantial investments from both local and international partners have supported roam’s ambitious venture.

Billed as the largest in East Africa, the Roam factory is equipped with cutting-edge technology and adheres to the highest environmental standards.

In addition to production, it will enable the thousands of petrol-powered motorbike taxis to be converted to electric power.

“This plant illustrates Kenya’s potential as a leader in clean transport solutions on the continent. It is, therefore, an initiative that fits perfectly with our national objectives of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions,” said the President of the Republic, William Ruto, during the launch of the factory.

Roam’s electric motorbikes have garnered significant attention in the market due to their robust design, impressive performance, and affordable price range.

These e-motorbikes offer a viable alternative to traditional petrol-powered two-wheelers, making them particularly appealing to urban commuters and delivery service providers.

With the inauguration of Roam’s factory, Kenya is poised to take a significant stride towards building a greener and cleaner future, setting a benchmark for sustainable transportation initiatives across the continent.