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Liquid Partners with Globalstar to Bring Advanced 5G to Africa

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Liquid Partners with Globalstar to Bring Advanced 5G to Africa

Liquid Intelligent Technologies has announced a strategic partnership with US-based Globalstar to deliver cutting-edge 5G connectivity solutions across Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf region.

The collaboration grants Liquid exclusive rights to sell and distribute Globalstar’s XCOM RAN private network 5G access solution in these markets.

This innovative technology is poised to revolutionize industries, particularly mining in Africa, by enhancing the 5G experience and supporting AI-driven applications.

Strive Masiyiwa, founder and chairman of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the potential for providing large enterprises like mines with their own 5G private networks capable of supporting advanced services such as AI.

Liquid will offer comprehensive customer support for Globalstar’s products and services, including technical assistance and warranty coverage.

The partnership also explores potential expansion into Globalstar’s satellite, Band n53 spectrum, and IoT solutions.

Dr. Paul E. Jacobs, CEO of Globalstar, emphasized the significant market potential for their technology in the regions served by Liquid.

He highlighted the unique capabilities of the XCOM RAN product in enabling mission-critical wireless applications, particularly when combined with Globalstar’s n53 midband spectrum.

The partnership aims to accelerate the deployment of advanced wireless technology across Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf.

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Treepz Makes History as the First Corporate Mobility Startup in Africa to Complete an International Cross-Border Rental Trip

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Treepz Makes History as the First Corporate Mobility Startup in Africa to Complete an International Cross-Border Rental Trip

Treepz, a leading African corporate mobility startup, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the continent’s first cross-border rental trip between Nigeria and Benin Republic.

The historic journey, which took place between August 7 and 11, 2024, transported 96 passengers between Lagos and Cotonou.

This achievement underscores Treepz’s commitment to providing innovative and reliable transportation solutions across Africa.

The company has consistently been at the forefront of the mobility sector, having transported over 5 million passengers within its existing markets of Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda through its rental marketplace.

Onyeka Akumah, Founder and CEO of Treepz, expressed pride in the company’s accomplishment.

“This is a momentous occasion for Treepz. We are excited to be pioneers in cross-border transportation and to demonstrate our capacity to meet the growing demand for efficient mobility solutions across Africa,” Akumah said.

The round trip, covering nearly 1400 kilometers, involved a fleet of five well-maintained buses equipped with insurance, tracking, and communication systems to ensure passenger safety and comfort.

Beyond cross-border rentals, Treepz offers a comprehensive suite of corporate mobility services, including employee transportation, event logistics, airport transfers, and school bus shuttles.

This latest achievement solidifies Treepz’s position as a leading player in the African mobility industry, setting a new standard for cross-border transportation services.

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South Africa’s Eastgate Shopping Centre Unveils Africa’s Largest Rooftop Solar Installation

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South Africa's Eastgate Shopping Centre Unveils Africa's Largest Rooftop Solar Installation

Eastgate Shopping Centre is set to become the proud owner of Africa’s largest registered rooftop solar installation. The final phase of the project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
 

The ambitious undertaking involves the installation of over 13,000 solar panels across an area of approximately 28,100 square meters.

This massive solar array will generate a total of 6 megawatts of electricity, significantly reducing the shopping centre’s reliance on the grid.

The decision to invest in solar power comes in response to the ongoing load-shedding challenges faced by South Africa.

Eastgate’s parent company, Liberty Two Degrees, has committed to a sustainable future and aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

“This is a monumental achievement for Eastgate and a testament to our dedication to environmental responsibility,” said Melinda Isaacs, L2D’s Developments executive.

“By reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring uninterrupted operations during load shedding, we are creating a more sustainable and resilient future for our customers, tenants, and the community.”

The completed solar installation is expected to generate substantial energy savings and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Eastgate Shopping Centre remains committed to providing a seamless shopping experience for its customers, even during challenging times.

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South African Startup NeoNomad Launches Africa’s First Hybrid Exchange Platform

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South African Startup NeoNomad Launches Africa's First Hybrid Exchange Platform

South African fintech startup, NeoNomad, has introduced Africa’s inaugural hybrid exchange platform, a groundbreaking web application designed to revolutionize financial services across the continent.
 

This innovative platform aims to tackle the challenges of financial exclusion, exorbitant transaction fees, and limited banking access prevalent in many African countries.

At the core of the NeoNomad platform is ZARcoin (ZARC), a stablecoin pegged to the South African Rand.

By seamlessly integrating cryptocurrency and traditional currency, ZARC facilitates swift and secure digital transactions both domestically and internationally.

The platform also ensures transparency and accountability through rigorous adherence to anti-money laundering, counter-financing of terrorism, know-your-customer, and privacy regulations.

“Our goal is to empower individuals to make informed financial decisions,” said Hanres Beukes, CEO of NeoNomad. “By creating a robust financial ecosystem, we aim to overcome barriers like infrastructure limitations and enable greater financial participation.”

Leveraging Solana Pay technology, the NeoNomad app offers instant, low-cost transactions through a decentralized e-banking system.

Users can effortlessly make cryptocurrency payments at physical stores by scanning QR codes, thanks to seamless integration with existing point-of-sale systems.

NeoNomad’s hybrid exchange platform represents a significant step forward in financial inclusion for Africa, promising to transform people’s interactions with money.

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AfriLabs Joins Forces with ITU to Boost African Tech

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AfriLabs Joins Forces with ITU to Boost African Tech

AfriLabs, a pan-African network of technology innovation hubs, has secured a significant milestone in its mission to foster innovation on the continent.
 
The organization has been officially admitted as a member of the International Telecommunication Union Development (ITU-D) Sector.

The announcement was made during the ITU Council’s 2024 session held in June.
 
As a specialized UN agency focused on information and communication technologies, the ITU-D is dedicated to promoting equitable access to these tools worldwide.

AfriLabs’ inclusion in the ITU-D is expected to accelerate digital transformation and sustainable development across Africa.
 
The partnership will provide the organization with a global platform to contribute to shaping policies and initiatives that support innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

“We are excited to join the ITU as an ITU-D Sector Member,” said Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director of AfriLabs.
 
“This partnership validates our work in fostering innovation and technology growth in Africa, and we look forward to collaborating on a global scale.”

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50 Entrepreneurs Make Final Cut for Africa’s Business Heroes

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50 Entrepreneurs Make Final Cut for Africa's Business Heroes

Fifty promising entrepreneurs from across Africa have been selected as finalists for the fifth edition of the Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) initiative.
 
The competition, backed by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, aims to spotlight and support exceptional African business leaders.

Since its inception in 2019, ABH has awarded a total of US$1.5 million annually to ten outstanding entrepreneurs.
 
Beyond financial support, the program offers invaluable opportunities for mentorship, networking, and professional development.

This year’s competition drew nearly 20,000 applications from all corners of the continent. The 50 finalists represent a diverse range of industries and embody the entrepreneurial spirit that is driving Africa’s economic growth.

Zahra Baitie-Boateng, Managing Director for Africa at Africa’s Business Heroes Initiative, expressed enthusiasm for the caliber of this year’s finalists. “We are thrilled to recognize the exceptional talent and potential of these 50 entrepreneurs,” she said. “Their innovative ideas and unwavering dedication to creating positive change inspire us all.”

The ABH initiative has become a platform for showcasing Africa’s entrepreneurial prowess and fostering a vibrant business ecosystem. 
 
The 50 finalists include:
 
  1. Adewale Yusuf – CEO, AltSchoolAfrica
  2. Adriaan Kruger – Co-Founder, nuvoteQ
  3. Alexander Odhiambo – Co-Founder, Solutech Limited
  4. Amir Tuodor – Co-Founder, Ted Solar
  5. Ady Coulibaly – Operations Manager, Bolingo Consult Ltd
  6. Angelo Pascal Tubibu – CEO, Congofresh
  7. Bamba Lo – Co-Founder & CEO, Paps
  8. Boubacar Biro Balde – Founder & CEO, SodiShop
  9. Clement Owusu-Donkor – Founder, Aquantuo
  10. Daniel Mukisa – CEO, Ridelink Limited
  11. Denis Karema – Co-Founder, SokoFresh
  12. Elizabeth Njuguna – Director, Risiih Investments Limited
  13. Emmanuel Tuyisenge – Temaco Builders Ltd
  14. Eric Onchonga – Co-Founder, Irri-Hub
  15. Eya Hammouda – HK Consulting
  16. Eyitayo Ogunmola – CEO, Utiva
  17. Farah Ahmed Farag –  Founder & CEO, The Baby Garage
  18. Godwin Benson – Co-Founder & CEO, Tuteria
  19. Hadeel Fayek – CEO, Joviality for Cosmetics
  20. Hadeer Soliman – Founder, The Happiness Factory
  21. Helmy Abouleish – CEO, SEKEM
  22. Henri Ousmane Gueye – Co-Founder, EYONE
  23. Ikechukwu Anoke – Founder & CEO, Zuri Health
  24. Jihan Abass – CEO, Lami
  25. Jolis Nduwimana – Founder, WEGE COMPANY
  26. Judith Marera – Founder, Lanforce Energy
  27. Laila Hassaballa – Co-Founder, Bellies En-route
  28. Lotfi Darragi – Founder, ReBootKamp
  29. Louisa Kiwana Olafuyi – Co-Founder & Director, Kunda Kids
  30. Maman Abdou – Founder, TECH-INNOV
  31. Martin Ssali – Founder, Smart Foods Limited
  32. Mathildah Amollo – Founder, GREATLAKES FEEDS LTD
  33. Matina Razafimahefa – Co-Founder & CEO, Sayna
  34. Maxima Nsimenta – CEO, LIVARA
  35. Mercy Mwende – Co-Founder, Thalia Psychotherapy
  36. Mina Shahid – CEO, Numida
  37. Mobolaji Ajayi – CEO, Purelife Health
  38. Muriuki Collins – Co-Founder, TERRA
  39. Najim Abdulrazak – CEO, Noba Africa Agro Allied Limited
  40. Olubunmi Otufowora – CEO, Boomsky Smoothies
  41. Omar Sefiani – Co-Founder, Sobrus
  42. Peter Kironji – Founder, Twiva
  43. Philippe Nkouaya – Co-Founder, PHILJOHN TECHNOLOGIES
  44. Rasha Rady – COO, Chefaa
  45. Richard Duodu – CEO, Metaschool Ltd
  46. Salma Bougarrani – Co-Founder, GREEN WATECH
  47. Samuel Munguti – Co-Founder, Shamba Pride
  48. Samuel Rigu – CEO, Safi Organics
  49. Tisya Mukuna – CEO, La Boite (La Kinoise)
  50. Victor Maina – Founder, Duhqa Ltd
 
Learn more about them here – https://www.africabusinessheroes.org/en/the-prize/finalists?year=2024&type=top50&page=1

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Egyptian Fintech MNT-Halan Expands into Turkey with Acquisition of Tam Finans

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Egyptian Fintech MNT-Halan Expands into Turkey with Acquisition of Tam Finans

Egyptian fintech giant MNT-Halan has announced its entry into the Turkish market through the acquisition of Tam Finans, a leading commercial finance company in the country.
 
The deal, which saw MNT-Halan acquire Tam Finans from Actera Group and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), will bolster the fintech’s global expansion strategy.

Founded in 2018, MNT-Halan has rapidly grown to become a leading provider of financial services in Egypt, offering a range of products including small and micro-business lending, consumer finance, payments, and e-commerce.
 
With a user base exceeding 2.2 million and over $4.4 billion in disbursed loans, the company has solidified its position as a key player in the Egyptian fintech ecosystem.

Tam Finans has a robust loan book valued at over $300 million and a strong presence in the Turkish market.
 
The acquisition is expected to significantly enhance MNT-Halan’s capabilities and accelerate its growth trajectory.

Mounir Nakhla, Founder and CEO of MNT-Halan, expressed enthusiasm about the deal, stating, “The combination of Tam Finans’ expertise and MNT-Halan’s technology will create a powerful force in the Turkish market. We are confident in our ability to deliver innovative financial solutions to millions of businesses and consumers in Turkey.”

The acquisition follows MNT-Halan’s recent $157.5 million fundraising round, which was earmarked for international expansion.
 
The company’s rapid growth and strategic acquisitions position it as a major contender in the global fintech landscape.

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Google Unveils 10 African Startups for Accelerator Program

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Google Unveils 10 African Startups for Accelerator Program

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Google has announced the selection of ten promising startups from across Africa for its eighth Accelerator Africa program.
 
The chosen ventures, hailing from Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, were picked from a pool of nearly 1,000 applicants.

Since its inception in 2018, the program has fostered a vibrant tech ecosystem, supporting 106 startups from 17 countries.
 
These businesses have collectively raised over $263 million and created over 2,800 jobs, underscoring the program’s significant contribution to Africa’s economic growth.

This year’s cohort places a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence, reflecting the technology’s growing importance in addressing the continent’s challenges.

The ten selected startups will participate in a ten-week program from July 29 to September 20, 2024.
 
They will receive mentorship, technical workshops, and support in refining their business strategies. Google will also assist the startups in securing follow-on funding through its investor network.

The program aims to accelerate the growth of these startups and position them as key players in Africa’s tech landscape.
 

The ten selected startups are:

  • CDIAL AI (Nigeria): Transforming multilingual communication across Africa with the power of artificial and collective intelligence.
  • Earthbond (Nigeria): Lighting up homes and businesses across Africa with affordable, reliable energy solutions, bolstered by carbon accounting and development finance.
  • Fixxr (South Africa): Putting car owners and businesses in the driver’s seat with transparent and convenient on-location vehicle maintenance and repair services.
  • Lifesten Health (Rwanda): Innovating health and wellness through cutting-edge screening and incentive-based programs focused on physical, mental, and nutritional health.
  • MyAIFactchecker (Nigeria): Equipping users with an AI-powered tool to combat misinformation and promote informed decision-making through fact-checking.
  • Nakili (Kenya): Bringing salons, barbershops, and spas into the digital age with a mobile-based app for streamlined management and enhanced customer experiences.
  • NextCounsel (Nigeria): Supercharging lawyer productivity with an AI-powered tool for contract management, solicitor engagement, compliance, and more.
  • Nobuk Africa (Kenya): Simplifying financial management for groups and collectives across Africa with a seamless platform for collecting funds, reconciling payments, and generating reports.
  • Rana Energy (Nigeria): Providing clean, reliable energy solutions to SMEs and communities through a data-driven ecosystem.
  • Triply (Kenya): Building Africa’s travel operating system, connecting travellers with seamless booking experiences and travel businesses with powerful management tools.

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MasterCard and Premier Bank Launch Digital Payment Platform for Somali Businesses

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MasterCard and Premier Bank Launch Digital Payment Platform for Somali Businesses

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MasterCard, a leading global payments technology company, has partnered with Premier Bank to introduce the Premier Payment Gateway, a digital platform designed to empower Somali businesses to accept international card payments.
 

The collaboration aims to boost the growth of Somali businesses by providing them with a secure and efficient way to conduct online transactions.

The payment gateway will enable businesses to expand their customer reach, boost revenue, and compete effectively on a global scale.

Shehryar Ali, MasterCard’s Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands, emphasized the partnership’s significance, stating that it will enable Somali businesses to tap into the growing e-commerce market.

The platform aligns with MasterCard’s broader goal of integrating 50 million micro and small businesses into the digital economy by 2025.

Premier Bank’s involvement in this initiative is part of its 2030 strategy to create a comprehensive payment ecosystem benefiting both cardholders and merchants.

The rapid growth of online shopping in Africa, fueled by increased internet penetration and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, presents a significant opportunity for Somali businesses.

With a growing mobile phone and internet user base, the Premier Payment Gateway is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of Somali consumers who are increasingly seeking convenient and secure online shopping experiences.

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