20 Rising African Startups To Watch Out For In 2025

Africa’s tech ecosystem has become a hotbed of innovation and opportunity, with startups addressing diverse industry challenges. From fintech to ed-tech, e-commerce to renewable energy, these companies are not just attracting investment but are also pushing boundaries with creative solutions tailored to the continent’s unique needs. Despite economic uncertainties and regulatory hurdles, many African startups thrive, often providing blueprints for scaling in emerging markets worldwide.

This list highlights 20 African startups leading the charge into 2025. They span various sectors, including digital finance, e-commerce, electric mobility, and ed-tech. These companies exemplify Africa’s innovative spirit, merging cutting-edge technology with local insights to solve real-world problems. One can see a clear roadmap for Africa’s growing influence on the global tech landscape by examining their strategies, accomplishments, and funding milestones.

With a focus on startups that are not only gaining traction locally but also expanding into regional and global markets, this collection showcases the continent’s potential as a hub of transformative ideas.

Here are the 20 African startups poised for success in 2025.

1. Sukhiba (Kenya)

Founded in 2020 by Ananth Gudipati and Abhinav Solipuram, Sukhiba is reshaping Kenya’s e-commerce landscape with its innovative B2B conversational commerce platform. The startup allows customers to order products directly through WhatsApp, prioritizing convenience and personalization. By leveraging the familiarity of chat-based interactions, Sukhiba builds trust with its users, positioning itself as a preferred alternative to impersonal e-commerce sites.

Despite challenges in the e-commerce sector, Sukhiba has thrived, raising $1.5 million in 2024 while competitors scaled down operations. The funding underscores its resilience and market appeal, with the platform steadily gaining traction among businesses seeking direct and reliable communication with their suppliers and customers. Sukhiba’s approach highlights the growing demand for trust-driven digital commerce solutions in Africa.

2. KopoKopo (Kenya)

Established in 2012 by Ben Lyon and Dylan Higgins, KopoKopo has been a pioneer in offering tailored payment and credit solutions for small and medium-sized businesses in Kenya. The startup carved out its niche in a market heavily dominated by banks and mobile money providers by addressing the unique needs of SMEs. Through KopoKopo’s platform, businesses can access seamless payment options and credit facilities, empowering them to scale and improve cash flow management.

In 2023, KopoKopo gained significant attention when it was acquired by Nigeria’s Moniepoint, marking a strategic expansion of the fintech giant into East Africa. The acquisition highlights KopoKopo’s value in driving financial inclusion and supporting underserved markets. As part of Moniepoint, KopoKopo is set to amplify its impact, leveraging the combined strengths of both entities to transform East Africa’s digital payment ecosystem.

3. Craydel (Kenya)

Launched in 2021 by John Nguru, Manish Sardana and Shayne Aman Premji, Craydel is revolutionizing Africa’s education consultancy landscape by offering a centralized platform for university applications. The startup connects students to over 600 partner universities across 45 countries, providing personalized recommendations and streamlining the study-abroad process. By addressing inefficiencies in Africa’s fragmented education system, Craydel ensures students can access quality higher education opportunities with ease.

In 2024, Craydel expanded its operations to Zimbabwe, further solidifying its position as a pan-African ed-tech leader. With its unified platform and extensive network of partner institutions, Craydel is transforming how students navigate academic opportunities, empowering the next generation to achieve their aspirations through education.

4. FoodCourt (Nigeria)

Founded in 2021 by Henry Nneji, Ovuoke Buluku and Paul Adokiye Iruene, FoodCourt is redefining the food delivery landscape in Nigeria. The platform allows users to order meals from multiple restaurants via a mobile app, offering features like cashless payments and grouped order capabilities. Based in Lagos, FoodCourt has become a key player in Nigeria’s digital food service sector, providing convenience and efficiency for both customers and restaurants.

FoodCourt’s commitment to innovation has made it a household name in urban food delivery. By focusing on user-friendly experiences and diverse restaurant options, the startup continues to grow its customer base, setting the standard for digital dining services in Nigeria’s bustling metropolises.

5. BasiGo (Kenya)

BasiGo is leading the charge in sustainable public transportation in East Africa. Since its founding, the company has focused on scaling electric mobility solutions, particularly electric buses, to address urban transport challenges. In 2024, BasiGo raised $42 million, with support from British International Investment and the US Development Finance Corporation, enabling the startup to expand its operations regionally.

CEO Jit Bhattacharya highlighted the company’s role in driving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions in Africa’s transport sector. Through its partnerships and innovative approach, BasiGo is setting a benchmark for clean and efficient public transportation, paving the way for a greener future in East Africa.

6. Userguest (Morocco)

Userguest, founded in 2018 by Ahmed Chami, Assil Bernossi, and Hicham Benyebdri, is revolutionizing hotel revenue optimization with AI-driven personalized marketing. The platform enables hotels to provide tailored website experiences for their guests, boosting direct bookings and enhancing customer satisfaction. Operating in over 30 countries, Userguest has generated $100 million in direct revenue for its partner hotels, cementing its reputation as a leader in hospitality technology.

With the rise of digital transformation in the travel industry, Userguest continues to empower hotels to compete with online travel agencies. By leveraging AI to analyze guest preferences and behaviours, the startup offers a competitive edge to its clients, making it an indispensable partner for revenue growth in the hospitality sector.

7. LabLabee (Algeria)

LabLabee, founded in 2021 by Samir Tahraoui and Mahfoud Sidi Ali Mebarek, specializes in practical training for networking technologies, including 5G, telecom, and AI. By offering affordable training solutions for enterprises and universities, LabLabee is addressing the skills gap in Africa’s tech industries. In 2024, the startup raised $3.4 million to expand its services, particularly in advancing 5G technology training.

LabLabee’s hands-on approach to education ensures that learners are job-ready, making it a valuable resource for organizations transitioning to next-generation technologies. As Africa continues to embrace digital transformation, LabLabee’s innovative training solutions position it as a key enabler of technological advancement and workforce development.

8. Cleva (Nigeria)

Cleva is transforming cross-border payments by enabling Africans to open secure USD accounts. Founded by Tolu Alabi and Philip Abel, the fintech startup empowers users to combat hyperinflation and conduct international transactions with ease. In 2024, Cleva secured $1.5 million in pre-seed funding to enhance its platform, which offers a seamless and secure experience for global payments.

The startup’s mission to democratize access to stable currencies has resonated with individuals and businesses across Africa. Cleva’s intuitive platform and innovative solutions provide a vital lifeline for users navigating economic uncertainties, solidifying its role as a disruptor in the African fintech ecosystem.

9. Uncover (Kenya)

Uncover, a skincare brand co-founded in 2021 by Sneha Mehta, Jade Oyateru, and Catherine Lee, combines K-Beauty technology with a focus on inclusivity to create products tailored for women of color. The startup raised $1.4 million in 2024 to expand its operations, including a planned entry into the Nigerian market. With personalized skincare solutions, Uncover is redefining beauty standards and celebrating diversity in the industry.

By leveraging data-driven insights and consumer feedback, Uncover ensures its products meet the unique needs of its target demographic. The startup’s commitment to inclusive beauty has earned it a loyal customer base, and its expansion plans highlight its ambition to become a leading name in the global skincare market.

10. Chowdeck (Nigeria)

Founded in 2021 by Femi Aluko, Olumide Ojo, and Lanre Yusuf, Chowdeck has rapidly scaled to serve 500,000 users across eight Nigerian cities. The food delivery startup combines efficiency with global best practices, offering a seamless experience for both customers and restaurant partners. Backed by prominent investors like Y Combinator and True Culture Funds, Chowdeck has established itself as a formidable player in Nigeria’s food-tech space.

Chowdeck’s growth is driven by its focus on reliability and user satisfaction. By streamlining food delivery processes and investing in technology, the startup continues to set itself apart in a competitive market, providing a model for innovation in Africa’s burgeoning digital economy.

11. Bokra (Egypt)

Launched in 2023 by Ayman El-Sawy, Bokra is democratizing wealth management for individuals and SMEs in Egypt. The fintech startup provides tailored investment plans with low entry barriers, addressing the accessibility challenges in Egypt’s financial markets. In 2024, Bokra raised $4.6 million to expand its platform and bring investment opportunities to underserved communities.

With a user-friendly interface and educational resources, Bokra empowers users to make informed financial decisions. By simplifying investments, the startup is fostering financial inclusion and helping a new generation of Egyptians build wealth, setting a precedent for fintech innovation in the region.

12. VaultPay (DR Congo)

Founded in 2023 by Ntambwa Basambombo and Christel Ilaka, VaultPay is building payments infrastructure for Central Africa, addressing the region’s low banking penetration. The startup enables instant transactions through telco networks, providing a vital service for underbanked populations. VaultPay’s potential was highlighted when it joined Y Combinator’s Summer 2024 class, marking it as a key player in financial inclusion.

By leveraging existing telecom infrastructure, VaultPay is bridging the gap between traditional banking and underserved communities. Its innovative solutions are transforming how people in Central Africa access financial services, laying the foundation for economic growth in the region.

13. Bamboo (Nigeria)

Founded in 2019 by Richmond Bassey and Yanmo Omorogbe, Bamboo empowers Africans to invest in local and global stocks seamlessly. The platform’s user-friendly interface provides access to a wide range of investment options, making it a go-to for both novice and experienced investors. In 2024, Bamboo expanded to Canada, introducing fee-free remittance services for the African diaspora, further enhancing its appeal to users seeking secure and low-cost financial solutions.

Bamboo’s mission to democratize access to investment opportunities has been a game-changer for individuals and businesses alike. By fostering financial literacy and enabling wealth creation, the startup has become a pivotal player in Africa’s growing fintech ecosystem, setting the stage for continued expansion and innovation.

14. Grey (Nigeria)

Grey, co-founded in 2020 by Idorenyin Obong and Femi Aghedo, simplifies global payments with its virtual international bank accounts tailored for freelancers and remote workers. The fintech surpassed one million users in 2024, offering virtual accounts in USD, GBP, and EUR, which enable users to transact internationally with ease. Grey’s intuitive platform is particularly valuable for digital nomads and businesses navigating cross-border transactions.

By addressing the challenges of global payments, Grey has positioned itself as a trusted partner for Africa’s remote workforce. Its robust growth reflects the increasing demand for seamless and secure financial solutions, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the continent’s fintech landscape.

15. Midddleman (Nigeria)

Midddleman, launched in 2023 by Omolara Sanni and Adeola Owosho, is redefining African e-commerce by addressing trust and logistics challenges in trade with China. The startup simplifies currency conversions to Yuan (CNY), making it easier for vendors to source products from China. In 2024, Middleman gained significant traction, winning notable grants such as the FCMB HERccelerate and Wetech PitchHER. The company ended the year with over ₦1 billion in total transaction value.

Midddleman’s innovative approach to solving trade inefficiencies has earned it a growing customer base and industry recognition. By enabling seamless international transactions, the startup is empowering African businesses to thrive in the global market, solidifying its role as a key player in the e-commerce sector.

16. Terrahaptix (Nigeria)

Terrahaptix, a Nigerian drone company founded by Nathan Nwachuku and Maxwell Maduka, is revolutionizing mining operations across Africa. The startup exports drones to South Africa, offering cutting-edge solutions for site mapping, equipment inspection, and environmental monitoring. By prioritizing safety and efficiency, Terrahaptix is addressing critical challenges in the mining industry.

The company’s focus on innovation and cross-border collaboration has positioned it as a leader in Africa’s growing drone technology sector. As industries increasingly adopt automated solutions, Terrahaptix’s expertise in drone applications is helping to modernize operations and drive sustainable growth.

17. GoMetro (South Africa)

GoMetro, a leader in electric fleet management solutions, raised $11.4 million in 2024 to expand its operations across Africa. The startup collaborates with Zenobē Energy to finance electric buses, facilitating fleet electrification and sustainable public transport systems. GoMetro’s innovative platform optimizes fleet efficiency, contributing to the continent’s transition to green mobility.

By addressing the environmental and economic challenges of traditional transport systems, GoMetro is playing a pivotal role in Africa’s sustainable transport revolution. Its partnerships and technological advancements underscore its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving urban mobility.

18. Lesaka (South Africa)

Lesaka, formerly known as Net1, strengthened its position in South Africa’s fintech market with the acquisition of Adumo in 2024. This strategic move has significantly boosted Lesaka’s scale, enabling it to process $15.5 billion in annual transactions. CEO Lincoln Mali highlighted the integration as a critical step toward enhancing the company’s payment solutions and financial inclusion efforts.

With a focus on leveraging technology to drive financial accessibility, Lesaka has become a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike. Its commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions has made it a cornerstone of South Africa’s fintech ecosystem.

19. Auto24 (Ivory Coast)

Launched in 2022, Auto24 is transforming Africa’s automotive retail space. The marketplace expanded to Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa in 2023, offering value-added services such as vehicle warranties and electric charging solutions. By prioritizing customer convenience and sustainability, Auto24 is redefining the car-buying experience on the continent.

Auto24’s rapid expansion highlights its success in addressing the evolving needs of African consumers. Its innovative approach to automotive retail positions it as a key player in the region’s growing vehicle market, setting new standards for trust and efficiency.

20. NALA (Tanzania)

NALA, a fintech focused on simplifying cross-border payments, has become a lifeline for Africans navigating high remittance fees. With backing from prominent investors like Amplo and NYCA Partners, NALA’s platform leverages innovative technology to cut costs and enhance accessibility. Its user-friendly app enables fast and reliable money transfers, making it a popular choice for individuals and businesses alike.

As the demand for affordable remittance services grows, NALA continues to expand its reach, empowering users across the continent. By prioritizing financial inclusion and leveraging cutting-edge solutions, NALA is shaping the future of cross-border payments in Africa.

USEFUL LINKS

• 25 Rising African Tech Startups To Watch Out For In 2024
• 25 Rising African Tech Startups To Watch Out For In 2023