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The U.S International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has invested $25 million in Novastar Ventures to support and invest in early stage startups in Africa
This investment will enable the Pan-African venture capital firm to continue its mission of backing innovative and impactful startups that are driving positive change in Africa. With a focus on sectors such as healthcare, education, and financial inclusion, Novastar has already made significant investments in several African startups.
Novastar will roll out the funding under its new investment vehicle Africa People + Planet Fund. The Africa People + Planet Fund is Novastar’s third pool after the $108 million Africa Fund II, which saw it widen its geographical reach to include West Africa.

Egyptian fintech startup Qardy has announced a strategic partnership with microfinance company Sandah to provide micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with greater access to financing.

South Africa has taken a significant step towards attracting skilled remote workers by signing digital nomad visa regulations into law.

Nigerian identity verification firm Smile ID has deepened its alliance with Mastercard in a move poised to hasten the deployment of secure digital identity systems across Africa.