AI models are primarily trained on online data, which tends to favor widely spoken languages like English. As a result, African languages are often underrepresented in AI-based solutions. This gap has prompted African tech entrepreneurs to take action and develop initiatives to integrate local languages into artificial intelligence systems.
ToumAI is a Moroccan startup specializing in customer experience (CX) optimization through AI-driven voice analytics. The company addresses gaps in current AI systems by integrating African languages and dialects, which are often overlooked in traditional language models.
"Our HolistiCX suite is pioneering a new era in customer experience, where businesses can adapt interactions to generational preferences, emotional profiles, communication channels, and cultural nuances—all while using hashtag#AI systems that are more sustainable and efficient," the company explains.
Founded in 2020 by Youcef Rahmani, Odin Demassieux, and Imade Benelallam, ToumAI works closely with telecom operators, banks, and call centers to collect and analyze voice data. This approach allows its AI to accurately process local dialects, accents, and speech patterns, making it a game-changer for emerging markets.
"In a world where AI advancement has been dominated by the US, China, and to a lesser extent Europe, we are proud to be building an important AI application layer from Africa for global markets," says co-founder Youcef Rahmani.
ToumAI has caught the attention of major tech players, earning recognition from Intel Liftoff for Startups and Nvidia Inception, accelerator programs run by U.S. semiconductor giants Intel and Nvidia.
On Monday, February 10, the startup announced it had successfully raised $1 million in funding. The investment will fuel technology development, team expansion, and market growth, solidifying ToumAI’s position as a key innovator in AI-driven customer experience for Africa and beyond.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
To provide healthcare access to populations in remote areas of Africa, Abakar Mahamat has launched an e-health solution supported by various institutions, including Chad’s Ministry of Health and the World Bank.
Telemedan is an e-health solution developed by a Chadian startup. It aims to improve access to healthcare in the country’s remote and underserved regions. Founded in 2021 by Abakar Mahamat, the N’Djamena-based company has gained support from several institutions, including the Ministry of Health, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Bank.
The healthtech company deploys solar-powered telemedicine kiosks equipped with diagnostic tools such as electrocardiograms (ECG), stethoscopes, oximeters, and ultrasound probes. These allow patients in rural areas to benefit from remote consultations with healthcare professionals in better-equipped regions.
“Our goal is to make healthcare affordable, accessible, and scalable, ensuring that no one is left behind, especially in areas with limited infrastructure,” Abakar Mahamat told Disrupt Africa.
To access care, patients use the solution’s mobile app, available on iOS and Android. The startup has also introduced a USSD code for people without internet access. Notably, Chad’s internet penetration rate stood at 22.5% in January 2024, according to DataReportal.
Since its launch, Telemedan has served more than 2,000 users and conducted nearly 10,000 consultations. The company plans to expand its operations to other sub-Saharan African countries, aiming to deploy 100 kiosks and reach 1 million people over the next three years, according to Abakar Mahamat.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
E-commerce is booming across Africa, where, alongside global giants like Amazon, AliExpress, and Shein, local solutions are also emerging. In Libya, two tech entrepreneurs have decided to step into the growing sector.
Alkremeya is a Libyan B2B e-commerce platform specializing in grocery supply. Through its web and mobile platforms, it connects retailers directly with major importers and wholesalers, giving them access to competitive wholesale prices. The goal is to streamline the supply chain for grocery stores across the country.
Based in Tripoli, the startup was founded in 2023 by Abdurrahman Ejdier and Fasih Ullah Ghafoor. “Most procurement processes relied on traditional methods. Currently, there are no major players in Libya offering a similar level of service, though international e-commerce platforms are indirect competitors. Our local approach and deep understanding of the market dynamics set us apart,” explains Ghafoor.
The platform is available on iOS and Android, where it has already been downloaded over 5,000 times, according to Play Store data. Users can create an account and instantly purchase a wide range of grocery products and household items with just a few clicks. Alkremeya offers reliable delivery services and flexible payment options, eliminating the need for retailers to physically visit multiple suppliers.
Since its launch, the startup has served over 500 merchants, many of whom now rely on it as their primary supply channel. While Alkremeya currently operates exclusively in Libya, it plans to expand to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman between 2025 and 2026.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum
Editing by Feriol Bewa
African fintech continues its strong growth, attracting over $1 billion in investment in 2024. Investors are drawn to the sector's potential, fueled by the continent's large underbanked population.
Khazna is an Egyptian financial application designed to provide accessible and inclusive services to a broad population. Founded in 2019 by Ahmed Wagueeh, Fatma El Shenawy, Omar Salah, and Omar Saleh, it primarily targets unbanked or underbanked individuals in Egypt, enabling them to manage their finances simply and efficiently.
The app is available on iOS and Android, with over 500,000 downloads according to the Google Play Store. Users can create an account to access salary advances, pay bills directly from their smartphones, and more.
The fintech has also introduced a “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) option, allowing users to make purchases from various partner merchants and pay in installments with no additional fees. This feature aims to facilitate access to essential goods and services without immediate financial strain.
On Thursday, February 6, the company announced it had successfully raised $16 million in a funding round to support its growth in the local market and expand into Saudi Arabia. This follows the $38 million it secured in 2022.
"Closing this funding round is a pivotal achievement for Khazna’s team. This not only propels our core business but also empowers us to accelerate our mission of advancing financial inclusion across the MENA region. Our entry into Saudi Arabia marks the beginning of a new chapter, and we are committed to delivering an unparalleled digital user experience across the region," said Omar Saleh.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Editing by Feriol Bewa
A group of tech entrepreneurs launched Aftown Music to support African artists. Starting in Ghana, the company recently expanded into Cameroon and is now eyeing further expansion into Francophone Africa.
Aftown Music is a music streaming and download platform developed in 2016 by a Ghanaian startup. It allows artists and podcasters to distribute their content and earn revenue. The platform offers a mobile app available on iOS and Android, where it has already been downloaded more than 5,000 times, according to Play Store data.
Through the app, users can sign up for an account and stream music from various artists on their smartphones or PCs. It has A free, ad-supported version, along with a premium, ad-free subscription. The platform features a wide range of genres, including Makossa, Bikutsi, Afrobeats, Amapiano, Gospel, and Highlife. In addition to streaming, it offers functionalities such as offline mode and a rewards system.
Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, Aftown Music announced on Monday, February 3, 2025, its expansion into Francophone Africa, starting with Cameroon. The move was made in collaboration with Cliq Empire, a local entertainment center and creative agency.
“We are thrilled to be working with Aftown Music to launch their operations in Cameroon. [...] his partnership is a game-changer for Cameroonian artists. It’s about time that local creatives had a platform that prioritizes their growth and ensures they receive fair compensation for their work,” said Prince Michael Enobi, director of Cliq Empire.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Launched by an Egyptian tech entrepreneur, the solution aims to be a flexible and accessible tool to help young Arabs access diverse training programs, allowing them to learn at their own pace, regardless of their skill level.
EYouth is an EdTech platform developed by an Egyptian startup, offering digital skills training programs tailored for youth, professionals, and entrepreneurs seeking to enhance their expertise.
The platform features a mobile app, available on iOS and Android, which has already been downloaded over a thousand times, according to Play Store data. Users can create an account and access a variety of courses, including content creation, graphic design, digital marketing, and data analysis.
EYouth also develops programs on financial education in Egypt, digital literacy training, awareness campaigns on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and stock market knowledge. Beyond short-term courses, the startup has launched tech scholarship programs, enabling young Arabs to learn the fundamentals of programming and artificial intelligence (AI). The goal is to enhance their employability and understanding of global trends, better preparing them for the job market.
Founded in 2016 by Mostafa Abdel Latif, the startup recently secured $6 million in funding to expand its training offerings, integrate advanced educational technologies, and reach a wider audience across Egypt and the MENA region (North Africa and the Middle East).
"To date, we have developed the skills of over three million young people. Through this partnership, we aim to accelerate and empower an additional one million youth to unlock their potential and drive innovation across Africa and the Middle East," said Mostafa Abdel Latif, founder of EYouth.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
The digital solution aims to facilitate access to online administrative services.
Faso Arzêka is a digital payment platform launched by the Burkinabe government, under the Ministry of Economy and Finance, through the General Directorate of Treasury and Public Accounting (DGTCP). It aims to centralize government and financial services, simplifying transactions for citizens while improving state revenue collection.
The platform also seeks to reduce travel and waiting times, enhance transaction transparency, and promote financial inclusion, particularly by increasing accessibility for rural populations.
Faso Arzêka offers a mobile app, available on iOS and Android, which has been downloaded over 500 times on the Play Store, according to available data. Users create an account using their phone number to access services such as eTimbre (electronic tax stamps), motor vehicle tax, residence tax, customs duties and taxes, and other administrative services.
Services are categorized by the responsible ministry, simplifying user navigation. The platform supports Arzêka Money, mobile money, bank cards, and bank transfers for payments.
In addition to the web platform and mobile app, authorities have introduced a USSD code for users without internet access. By dialing *700# and following the instructions, they can complete transactions. Users can call 700 for customer support.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Launched in 2022, the Ivorian fintech offers a range of financial services to local communities. To accelerate its growth, it has forged strategic partnerships with organizations such as La Poste and the Coffee and Cocoa Board.
Push CI is a fintech solution developed by Ivorian company SEAD Group SA. It offers an all-in-one mobile account linked to a virtual or physical Visa card to simplify financial management for its users.
Launched in 2022 by Steven Bedi, along with Selma Ouiguini, a former Société Générale executive, the Abidjan-based startup provides a mobile app available on iOS and Android. The app, which has surpassed 100,000 downloads according to Play Store data, enables users to create an account and access a full range of digital financial services tailored to both individuals and professionals.
Linked to a phone number, the account provides two types of international Visa cards: a physical card (priced at 5,000 CFA francs, about $8) for in-store payments, ATM withdrawals, and online purchases worldwide; and a free virtual card for secure online transactions.
Push CI enables users to send and receive money instantly, both to other Push accounts and via leading mobile money operators. The app also allows users to pay utility bills – electricity, water, and internet – and top up their phone credit with a few clicks. Users have real-time access to detailed transaction histories for effective financial tracking.
To cater to users without internet access, the fintech provides a USSD code for accessing all its services. Additionally, the customer service center offers multilingual support in French, Dioula, Baoulé, Bété, and Mooré.
In January 2025, Push CI was selected alongside nine other Ivorian startups for the Ivoire Tech Champions Challenge. Winners will enjoy various benefits, including a visit to Silicon Valley in the United States from February 24 to 28, 2025.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Specializing in human ressource management, the Nigerian startup has secured funding in multiple rounds to fuel its expansion. The company also operates in Ghana and Kenya.
SeamlessHR is a human resource management software designed for African businesses. It automates manual tasks and centralizes employee data management, reducing the risk of errors. Based in Ikeja, Nigeria, the startup was founded in 2018 by Deji Lana and Emmanuel Okeleji. On Wednesday, January 22, it announced the completion of a $9 million funding round to support its growth in Africa.
The solution offers a range of integrated modules to optimize various aspects of HR management. It provides insights into employee performance and enables precise calculations for generating secure reports. One feature helps manage and monitor payments as well as regulatory compliance.
The “Recruitment” function optimizes the hiring process through an applicant tracking system, helping attract and select top talent. SeamlessHR also includes performance and time management features, and allows employees early access to salaries and long-term loan options.
The startup claims 2,000 client companies worldwide and has physical offices in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. “Over the last 5 years, we have expanded to become the dominant HR and Payroll Software for medium to large enterprises in Africa,” said Emmanuel Okeleji.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
After achieving significant growth in smaller cities across eastern Algeria, logistics startup Wajeez has successfully expanded to the capital, Algiers. The company now plans to expand its operations to other countries throughout the African continent.
Founded in 2018 as FoodBeeper by Mohamed Salah Tourab, Wajeez is a digital platform that streamlines the delivery of meals and fresh produce. Since its inception, the startup has broadened its services to encompass a variety of items and personalized shopping experiences.
The Wajeez mobile app, available on both iOS and Android, has been downloaded over 100,000 times according to data from the Google Play Store. After creating an account, users can easily utilize the search bar at the top of the page to locate specific items or partner stores. They can then add products to their cart, complete the checkout process, and receive their deliveries.
When users search for a store, they gain access to its entire catalog. Additionally, Wajeez features a loyalty program that offers rewards, discounts, and a premium service.
Wajeez Gold is a subscription service that provides access to exclusive offers. With a monthly subscription, users can enjoy 5% cashback on all food orders, earn double loyalty points for quicker rewards, and unlock the Courier service, which allows them to send, receive, and purchase anything they desire within their city without hassle.
The platform is currently operational in 13 cities across Algeria. In 2023, it expanded its reach to Dakar, Senegal, marking an important milestone in its African expansion plan.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum
Editing by Febriol Bewa
With the rise of e-commerce, logistics services are keeping pace with the trend. In Mali, a startup has decided to digitize various establishments in Bamako to offer their services to the population through its mobile application.
Livrado is a logistics solution developed by a Malian startup. It offers on-demand delivery and storage services within the city of Bamako and its surrounding areas. Founded in 2022 by CEO Aicha Diallo, Livrado allows users to order and have meals delivered, shop at supermarkets, run errands, and send and receive mail through its platform.
The startup partners with numerous restaurants, supermarkets, and grocery stores in the Malian capital. It also employs young people as delivery drivers who register on the Livrado platform.
In addition to delivery services, Livrado offers storage solutions, providing secure and optimized warehousing options to ensure the availability and integrity of clients’ products. Customers can store goods in the startup’s facilities and retrieve them later as needed.
To access its services, users must create an account on the Livrado app, which is available on iOS and Android. According to Play Store data, it has already been downloaded over a hundred times.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism in Africa is experiencing a strong resurgence. Travelers are now seeking high-quality lodging options, and tech-savvy entrepreneurs have emerged with innovative solutions to effectively meet this growing demand.
Conservio is a South African online booking platform specializing in nature-based stays across Southern Africa. Founded in 2020 by Lara Dendy Young and Justin Rijnberg in Cape Town, it “helps nature lovers discover and book unique getaways in locations that celebrate nature.”
On January 16th, 2025, it announced the completion of a $1 million funding round to grow its portfolio to over 2,000 properties and attract more travelers.
To book a stay, users create an account on the Conservio website. They can then use the search function to input their desired travel dates, number of guests, destination country (South Africa, Mozambique, or Namibia), and specific region. Conservio's algorithm then presents a curated list of matching properties, including cabins, cottages, camps, lodges, and villas.
Travelers can easily compare options based on their preferences, budget, and availability. Once a suitable accommodation is selected, the booking process is seamless, with secure online payment options available. "Demand for independent travel within Africa is experiencing rapid growth," explains Justin Rijnberg, co-founder of Conservio. "We're witnessing a surge in tech-savvy travelers seeking unique stays beyond city limits. These travelers value the convenience of booking and paying online, seamlessly and in one place."
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Frustrated by negative online shopping experiences, this tech entrepreneur decided to create an e-commerce platform that solves these issues.
Ajé is a Nigerian social commerce platform powered by blockchain technology. It was launched in 2022 by Ifeoluwa Wole-Osho to address the lack of trust in online transactions. The startup is headquartered in Lagos.
“I remember a friend who paid for a laptop only to discover it didn’t work, with no recourse to recover their money. These problems weren’t limited to students – small businesses and everyday people across Nigeria faced similar struggles when trading online. The trust gap in these transactions wasn’t just a nuisance; it was a barrier to economic opportunity,” Ifeoluwa Wole-Osho told Disrupt Africa.
Ajé offers a mobile application available on iOS and Android, with over 5,000 downloads according to Play Store data. Users create an account with their personal information and gain access to a secure marketplace where buyers and sellers can connect seamlessly, supported by escrow payments, dispute resolution tools, and multi-currency wallets.
Since its 2022 launch, the platform has gained over 7,500 users and facilitated more than 4,000 secure transactions. It is experiencing rapid growth, with a 50% increase in monthly registrations and a 32% rise in repeat transactions.
“Product listings continue to grow, with over 17,000 total listings, 1,700 of which were added in the last month alone. These metrics demonstrate the platform’s expanding ecosystem and its ability to meet the needs of both buyers and sellers effectively,” added Ifeoluwa Wole-Osho.
Ajé sets itself apart from competitors by combining social commerce, blockchain-based escrow services, and cross-border support, catering to underserved markets. The platform aims to expand its operations and enhance its product offerings to continue meeting the needs of buyers and sellers effectively.
“By Q3 2025, we aim to target the diaspora communities in the UK and Canada, leveraging insights gained from our success in Turkey to serve these broader audiences effectively,” Wole-Osho concluded.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum
Editing by Feriol Bewa
He is a computer engineer with several years of experience in developing technological solutions and managing IT projects. He stands out for his innovative mindset, particularly in areas such as healthcare.
Hachi Bilal (photo) is an Algerian tech entrepreneur and computer scientist. He is the founder of eSiha, a multi-service digital medical platform aimed at becoming a vital healthcare partner for Algerians.
Founded in 2019, eSiha offers a mobile application that allows users to access various healthcare services. It enables the search and geolocation of doctors and provides healthcare professionals with tools to manage their practices and medical centers, conduct teleconsultations, and create online medical records.
The app lists doctors, dentists, midwives, medical centers, laboratories, radiology centers, and pharmacies. It also facilitates searches for optical centers, ambulance services, home care, and online appointment scheduling. To date, the platform boasts 10,850 registered practitioners, 77,000 users, and records 4,000 daily connections.
eSiha is developed by hachITech, an IT services and technology company founded by Hachi Bilal in 2016 and based in France. The company supports clients through audits and consulting missions to optimize their information systems, designs and integrates IT solutions, and provides tailored technical assistance.
Additionally, Hachi Bilal is the co-founder and application development lead at GroupBees, a community of IT professionals dedicated to expertise, knowledge sharing, and professional skills.
Hachi Bilal graduated from the National Polytechnic Institute of Toulouse in 2011 with a master’s degree in automated computing. That same year, he completed a four-month program in programming and IT project management at the Higher Institute specializing in IT professions (ISSMI) in France. Between 2009 and 2012, he also pursued a doctorate at the Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences at Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella University in Algeria.
Hachi Bilal served as a substitute professor at the University of Grenoble Alpes from 2011 to 2013. In 2013, he joined Safran, a company specializing in aerospace and space technologies, as a full-stack engineer. In 2015, he became a technical manager at Air France before moving to Enedis in 2016 as a full-stack engineer. In 2017, he was appointed technical manager at the Les Mousquetaires Group, a European retail company. Finally, between 2021 and 2022, he worked as a cloud architect at Artcurial, a French auction house.
By Melchior Koba
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji