Since its inception in 2011, AfriLabs has emerged as a dynamic force in the African innovation landscape. Dedicated to fostering a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship, AfriLabs serves as the cornerstone for innovation hubs and stakeholders across diverse African nations. At the heart of our mission are the innovation hubs — vibrant, collaborative spaces where African entrepreneurs, innovators, developers, and aspiring individuals converge to transform ideas into impactful ventures. Beyond offering physical co-working environments, these hubs provide a robust ecosystem of support, encompassing tailored training, legal guidance, and financial expertise essential for business success.
2023 IMPACT REPORT
DRIVING AFRICAN INNOVATION TOWARDS A TRANSFORMATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
An annual report of AfriLabs’ impact
1
Word from the Executive Director
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Introduction
6
Building a Diverse and Talented Team for Impact
7
Advancing Innovation and Community Advancement
8
Highlights and Achievements Engaging and Supporting Members
9
10
Impactful Collaborations and Initiatives
11 12
Testimonials and Feedback
Department Spotlight
13 14
On Network Expansion in 2023 From Our Head of Members’ Desk
The AfriLabs Secretariat’s Path in Promoting Innovation Innovation driven projects for Sustainable Development
16 18 21 21 25 26 28
AU Digital and Innovation
Fellowship Program
GIZ-PAU Incubation Programme
RevUP Women Initiative
GCA Youth Adaptation Solutions Challenge 2022
LEAP-RE 30 (Leading Electricity Access Practitioner Network for Renewable Energy) 30 ONEPlanET 31 UNFPA FGM Hacklab 33 UNFPA Mental Health & ASRHR HackLab 33 AfriLabs Capacity Building Programme (ACBP) 34 The AfriLabs Community Deal Room (ACDR): A Beacon of Success for Investors and Entrepreneurs Investor Partners and Their Impact 40 BMGF AI Startup Mapping and Ethical Policy Research Project 41
Reflecting on AfriLabs’ Milestones and Envisioning the Future of Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem 42
Enhancing advocacy and collaboration efforts across the continent through events
44 44
International Women’s Day Candid Conversation
2
RevUp Women Soft Launch
45 46 48 48 48 49 51 51 52
GITEX Event Report: Bringing Many Seats to the Table
Global StartUps Awards 2023 Intel Train the Trainer Session
Transform Africa Summit
Lagos ArTech Event Report: When Creativity Met Technology
ABH Info Session GBSN Conference
AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023
Partnering for Impact: AfriLabs’ Strategic Collaborations in 2023
56 59
Partner Testimonials
AfriLabs Connect
60
Amplifying Innovation Through Strategic Communication Shaping Africa’s Digital Future Together: A Call to Action
62 64
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WORD FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As we reflect on the milestones and achievements of 2023, it is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I present to you the AfriLabs Impact Report for the year. In a world marked by dynamic shifts and unprecedented challenges, the resilience and innovation within Africa’s vibrant technology and innovation ecosystem have never been more evident. At AfriLabs, we remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering growth, collaboration, and sustainability across the continent’s innovation hubs. Throughout the year, AfriLabs embarked on a journey of transformation, guided by our unwavering dedication to empowering Africa’s innovators and entrepreneurs. Together, we navigated through the complexities of a rapidly evolving world, leveraging the power of technology and innovation to address the pressing challenges facing our communities. Our journey was marked by key partnerships and initiatives that underscored our commitment to driving positive change and shaping the future of the African tech and innovation ecosystem. AfriLabs was thrilled to launch the RevUp Women Initiative which aims to support early-stage women-led startups in Africa and foster gender equality. We forged impactful partnerships with the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Global Partnerships at the GITEX Africa event in Marrakech and hosted the 8th edition of the AfriLabs Annual Gathering which was the most successful gathering yet, hosted by Rwanda and the Rwandan Minister of ICT. The gathering birthed more impactful partnerships with Algeria Venture, Renew Capital. Groundbreaking initiatives such as the Working Mother’s Guide, AfriLabs Connect Deal Room, AfriLabs Connect 2.0 and the Open Innovation Toolkit by GIZ Make IT in Africa were all unveiled at the gathering.
Anna Ekeledo Executive Director, AfriLabs
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AfriLabs proudly joined the Global Labor Market Conference, where I had the privilege to contribute to a roundtable discussion on “Alternative Pathways to Obtain and Communicate Skills.” Together, we explored adapting curricula to meet evolving technological demands, discussing best practices from educational reforms, labor market programs, and private sector initiatives focused on agile skill-building pathways. In another significant endeavor, we held discussions with Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives. This engagement resulted in plans for strategic collaboration to address innovation policy gaps in Nigeria, signaling a commitment to fostering an innovative environment through effective policies and regulations. From delivering a compelling speech at ArTech Lagos, emphasizing the transformative power of collaboration and the crucial support needed for young entrepreneurs, to forging an impactful partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Global Partnerships at the GITEX Africa event in Marrakech, our journey in 2023 was marked by meaningful collaborations and partnerships aimed at driving sustainable impact across the continent. In 2023, we proudly drove policy at the forefront of engagements with governments which was evident through our active involvement in organizing and participating in Ministerial roundtable discussions at the Transform Africa Summit in Zimbabwe, our Annual Gathering in Rwanda and the African Startup Conference which was held in Algeria. AfriLabs also conducted capacity building programmes aimed at strengthening hubs and increasing the percentage of successful and investment-ready startups on the continent to climate change and sustainability programmes focused on promoting clean energy and reducing inequalities in Africa. The AfriLabs collective impact was felt across 54 African countries and across various sectors, highlighting our contribution and commitment to the social and economic growth of the continent. This impact report serves as a testament to the collective efforts of our diverse community of entrepreneurs, innovators, mentors, and partners who have dedicated themselves to shaping a future defined by innovation, inclusivity, and opportunity. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the AfriLabs team, our dedicated partners, and the entire African innovation community for their unwavering support and commitment to our shared vision. Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones and laid the foundation for a future filled with promise and possibility.
Our journey was marked by key partnerships and initiatives that underscored our commitment to driving positive change and shaping the future of the African tech and innovation ecosystem. “
”
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Introduction
Since its inception in 2011, AfriLabs has emerged as a dynamic force in the African innovation landscape. Dedicated to fostering a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship, AfriLabs serves as the cornerstone for innovation hubs and stakeholders across diverse African nations. At the heart of our mission are the innovation hubs — vibrant, collaborative spaces where African entrepreneurs, innovators, developers, and aspiring individuals converge to transform ideas into impactful ventures. Beyond offering physical co-working environments, these hubs provide a robust ecosystem of support, encompassing tailored training, legal guidance, and financial expertise essential for business success. Through strategic engagement with these hubs and their communities, AfriLabs actively nurtures the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. By fostering an environment ripe for innovation, we catalyze economic prosperity and drive meaningful social development across the African continent.
To support innovation hubs and their communities to raise high potential entrepreneurs that will stimulate economic growth and social development in Africa. We achieve this through capacity building, financing, networking, policy advocacy, and providing insightful, reliable data.
Mission
A thriving innovation economy in Africa, driven by the power of our community.
Vision
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AfriLabs understands that a strong and diverse team is fundamental to achieving our ambitious goals. In 2023, we made significant strides in fostering a more inclusive and representative workforce. Focused on team growth, we strategically expanded our team by recruiting 21 new staff , bringing on board talented individuals with a wide range of expertise. This growth allows us to better serve our growing network of startups and partners across Africa. Further to this, our targeted recruitment aims to attract and retain talent from diverse backgrounds. As a result, we achieved a more diverse team made up of team members from 10 African countries, thus achieving a 25% increase in the diversification of our team. The organization’s initiative to embrace technology for fostering innovation led to the adoption of the SeamlessHR platform, facilitating the digitization of People Management/HR processes. This transition has significantly streamlined our people processes, equipping us with valuable data and insights to drive strategic decision-making effectively. In investing in our people, we prioritize the professional development of our staff by providing opportunities for training, mentorship, mental wellness programmes and skill-building initiatives. This investment empowers our team to deliver exceptional service and contribute meaningfully to AfriLabs’ mission. A diverse and talented team is not just the right thing to do; it’s essential for driving innovation and achieving sustainable impact. We are committed to fostering a work environment that celebrates different perspectives and empowers all team members to reach their full potential. Building a Diverse and Talented Team for Impact
21 New Staff
increase in the diversification of our team. 25%
Digitization of People Management/HR processes
Diversity is not how we differ Diversity is about embracing one another’s uniqueness.” ‘’
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Advancing Innovation and Community Advancement
In 2023, AfriLabs experienced significant growth and achieved remarkable milestones, further solidifying its position as a leading catalyst for innovation and collaboration across the African continent.
Major Output in 2023
Throughout the year, AfriLabs saw steady growth and expansion across its network of innovation hubs:
Q1
19 new hubs joined the network, expanding our reach and impact.
The network continued to grow with 16 additional hubs joining from various African countries.
Q2
A significant milestone was reached with 27 new hubs joining, reflecting increasing recognition and trust in AfriLabs' mission. Our efforts were tailored to reinforce Q1 2024 admissions in our commitment to supporting innovation and collaboration across the continent.
Q3
Keys:
Q4
1-5 hubs 6-13 hubs 14-20 hubs Over 20 hubs
The growth in membership was accompanied by an increase in the number of cities and countries represented, with hubs now spanning diverse regions of Africa.
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Highlights and Achievements
In 2023, AfriLabs celebrated several key achievements that underscored our commitment to driving positive change and fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem:
Enhanced Collaboration
Expansion of the Network
In-country and cross-regional collaborations among hubs increased, fostering knowledge sharing, resource pooling, and collective problem-solving.
The AfriLabs network expanded to include 462 hubs across 53 African countries, representing a diverse and vibrant community of innovators and entrepreneurs.
The inaugural Language Week celebrated linguistic diversity across Africa, promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange within the innovation ecosystem. AfriLabs Pan-African Language Week
Dialogue Series for Board Elections
A transparent and engaging Dialogue Series was launched to facilitate meaningful interactions between members and candidates during the Board elections, ensuring inclusive and participatory governance.
Successful Board Elections
Seven (7) new Board members were elected, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to AfriLabs’ leadership team.
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Throughout 2023, the AfriLabs actively engaged and supported AfriLabs’ members through various initiatives: Engaging and Supporting Members
Promoting Linguistic Diversity
Peer-to-Peer Learning and Mentorship
The AfriLabs Office Hours provided opportunities for members to engage in peer-to-peer learning and mentorship, encouraging knowledge exchange and skill development.
The first-ever AfriLabs Language Week featured five languages and was led by seven hubs across different regions, promoting linguistic diversity and inclusion.
Info Sessions and Dialogue Series
Bridging the Gap through Focus Group Discussions
Listening tours and focus group discussions bridged the gap between AfriLabs and the community, providing insights into members’ activities and shaping strategic approaches.
Info sessions and the Dialogue Series facilitated transparent communication and engagement, ensuring members were well- informed and actively involved in decision-making processes.
Facilitating Collaborations
The department facilitated collaborations among hubs, connecting them with partners and resources for project implementation, co-working space access, and event participation.
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Impactful Collaborations and Initiatives
Several member collaborations in 2023 demonstrated the transformative power of collective action and innovation:
Engausa Tech Hub and EnovateLab (Nigeria):
The Digital Skills Empowerment for Secondary School Students project equipped 50 students with essential digital skills, promoting inclusivity and bridging the digital divide.
Westerwelle Foundation and Cube Zanzibar (Tanzania)
The DigiTrade Tourism project empowered youth and tourism entrepreneurs, democratizing digital technology and driving economic empowerment.
Pangea Trust (Kenya) and Seedbuilders Innovation Hub (Nigeria)
The Agrifood Accelerator Program supported 20 agritech startups, providing mentorship and technical support to drive innovation and growth.
Open Innovation Program (OIP) Uganda by StartHub Uganda
The OIP Uganda bridged the gap between private and public sector innovation needs, supporting startups to develop market- driven solutions for Smart Cities.
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Members shared their experiences and highlighted the transformative impact of AfriLabs’ initiatives: Testimonials and Feedback
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Department Spotlight Member Services
Fostering Community and Shared Purpose
The Member Services Department played a pivotal role in advanc- ing a sense of community and shared purpose among members through networking events, resources, and open communication channels. Director of the Community, Mayssa Mrabet, reiterated Af- riLabs’ commitment to expanding the network and empowering African innovators to drive positive change. In 2023, AfriLabs demonstrated unwavering dedication to its mis- sion of driving innovation, collaboration, and impact across the African continent. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering African innovators and driving sustainable development across the region.
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On Network Expansion in 2023 From Our Head of Members’ Desk
Dear AfriLabs Community,
As the Head of Member Services, it gives me immense pleasure to reflect on the remarkable progress we made in 2023. This past year has been a significant period of expansion for AfriLabs, as we witnessed the growth of our innovation hub network across the continent. Our hubs now span megacities, townships, and even some of the most remote regions in Africa. This widespread presence demonstrates the increasing penetration and impact of technology and innovation across diverse landscapes.
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Network Expansion
Innovation hubs now reach megacities, townships, and remote regions across Africa.
2023 in Review
Impact of Hubs
Quarterly Growth Steady growth driven by dedicated hub managers and vibrant tech communities.
The innovation hubs within our network are more than just physical spaces; they are the arteries and veins at the heart of AfriLabs, pumping life and energy into Africa’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.
Hubs are essential to Africa’s tech ecosystem, fostering collaboration, nurturing talent, and driving the digital economy.
62 New Hubs joined AfriLabs
Quarter 1 – 19 Quarter 2 – 16 Quarter 3 – 27
+450 hubs in 53 countries
The innovation hubs within our network are more than just physical spaces; they are the arteries and veins at the heart of AfriLabs, pumping life and energy into Africa’s burgeoning tech ecosystem. These hubs are fostering collaboration, nurturing talent, and driving the digital economy forward, making significant contributions to Africa’s growth in the technology sector. We are thrilled to report that our network is experiencing growth through the quarters. This momentum is not just a testament to the hard work and dedication of our hub managers and partners but also to the vibrant and dynamic tech communities that are flourishing across the continent. As we look ahead to 2024, we are filled with hope and excitement for even greater
achievements. Our vision remains steadfast: to create the largest and most connected ecosystem of innovation hubs in Africa. We remain dedicated to supporting and nurturing this ecosystem, ensuring that our members have the resources and connections they need to thrive. Together, we will continue to drive innovation, inspire change, and build a brighter future for all.
Warm regards, Mayssa Mrabet Head of Member Services AfriLabs
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The AfriLabs Secretariat, the backbone of our organization, has experienced significant growth and transformation, reflecting our commitment to driving innovation and bolstering a vibrant ecosystem across Africa. In 2023, our team achieved remarkable milestones, ranging from expansion and diversity to enhanced organizational structure and continuous learning and development. The AfriLabs Secretariat’s Path in Promoting Innovation
Enhanced Organizational Structure
Team Growth and Diversity
Throughout the year, the AfriLabs Secretariat witnessed substantial growth, both in terms of team size and diversity. Our dedicated team expanded to accommodate the evolving needs and demands of our growing network of innovation hubs. We welcomed new members who brought diverse perspectives, expertise, and experiences, enriching our collective knowledge and capabilities.
In response to the evolving needs of our network and stakeholders, we enhanced our organizational structure to optimize efficiency, collaboration, and impact. We streamlined processes, clarified roles and responsibilities, and fostered a culture of accountability and transparency. These structural enhancements enabled us to better serve our members, partners, and the broader innovation ecosystem
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As we reflect on the achievements and growth of the AfriLabs Secretariat in 2023, we are energized and inspired to continue our journey of empowerment and impact. Moving forward, we remain dedicated to cultivating a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within our team and across the African innovation ecosystem. Together, we will continue to empower African innovators, drive positive change, and shape the future of our continent. The AfriLabs Secretariat stands ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, guided by our shared vision of a thriving, inclusive, and innovative Africa.
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Innovation driven projects for Sustainable Development
In 2023, AfriLabs embarked on a series of transformative projects designed to propel sustainable development across the African continent. Through a strategic focus on innovation, AfriLabs has been at the forefront of driving positive change, harnessing technology to address pressing challenges and catalyze progress in key sectors. These initiatives underscore AfriLabs’ commitment to leveraging entrepreneurship and creativity to build a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa and its people.
2023 Programmes summary
PROGRAMMES DEPARTMENT MILESTONES 2022–2023
16,000+ innovators/en trepreneurs reached
371+ Hubs 450+ startups benefitted from funding program
Over $2.5M disbursed to hubs and startups across programmes
240+ Ecosystem experts engaged across AfriLabs Hubs
21 project successfully managed, with 7 completed
54 countries covered through programme implementation
Programme Implementation
Geographic Coverage
Support to Innovator’s growth
Support to Hub/StartUp Sustainability
Financial Disbursement
Job Creation
ACPB
YAC'23
YAC Franc
AUTech
LA'AIS
AI Ethical
UNFPA
Greenovation
150+ 7
9
26 1
1
19
27
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OVER $2.5M EXPENDED AND DISBURSED ACROSS DIFFERENT AFRILABS PROGRAMMES
Over $2.5M disbursed to hubs & startups across Programmes
$150,000 disbursed to 10 innovators as seed funds on UNFPA programme
$180,000 disbursed to 12 Hubs on the ACPB Capacity Building Projects
$60,000 disbursed to 10 Hubs to conduct incubation on UNFPA programme
$48,000 disbursed to 12 hubs on the ACPB Virtual Meetup Grant Projects
$100,000 disbursed to 10 Green startups on Greenovation programme
€328,000 Expended in training 189 Hubs through the Physical Workshops in 2023
€973.968 disbursed as matching funds to 17 startups on Catalytic Africa`
$540,000 disbursed to 18 Innovators on the YouthAdapt 2022 cohort
$270,000 disbursed to 5 innovators on the YouthAdapt Francophone Accelerator
OVER THE PAST YEAR, THE DEPARTMENT HAS IMPLEMENTED 21 PROJECTS WITH 7 COMPLETED
ONGOING
AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship Program (AU Tech) 2023
BMGF AI Startup Mapping and Ethical Policy 2023
AfriLabs Capacity Building Programme (ACBP) 2023
Catalytic Africa
2023
GCA – Youth ADAPT Challenge Francophone Accelerator 2021 2023
GCA – Youth ADAPT Challenge 2024
The African European Digital Innovation Bridge (AEDIHB) 2023
The Digital Marketplace Yoma 2023
Long-Term Joint Research and Innovation Partnership on Renewable Energy (LEAP-RE) 2024
UNFPA Incubation Programme 2024
Greenovations 2024
ONEPlanET 2025
Civil Society and Media- Strengthened Together and Advancing in New Directions (CSM -STAND) 2026
RevUp Women 2026
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COMPLETED
FIUWA – Frugal Innovation and Entrepreneurship In Water 4.0 In African Project
Smart Cities Innovation Programme (SCIP)
Mozilla Africa
Afri-Plastics Challenge
World Food Programme (WFP) M&E and Protocol Testing
African Union Civic Tech Fund(AUCTF) Virtual Accelerator Training
GIZ – PAU Incubation Program
AFRILABS HAS WORKED IN 8 SECTORS ACROSS THE 21 PROGRAMMES IMPLEMENTED IN THE PAST YEAR
Climate Adaptation & Resilience
4
3
Education
3
2
Energy
2
1
Civic Tech
1
Al
1
Gender Inclusion
1
Health
1
Investment
1
Ongoing
Completed
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Project Name
AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship Program
Funders
This program, initiated by AfriLabs in collaboration with the African Union (AU), focuses on nurturing digital and innovative talent across the continent. It offers fellowships to promising individuals and provides them with resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to enhance their skills and contribute to the digital transformation of Africa.
Output/Outcome
Product Development
Job Creation
Gender Transformation
13+ products developed to solve various challenges in the targeted AU units/organs, including the launch of the African union digital portal.
Job retention of 6 fellows by their respective AU units
Surpassing the 50/50 gender parity by having 8:5 female-male ratio
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STATEMENTS FROM FELLOWS
Thanks to the fellowship, I have a certain opinion/idea related to the role of African governmental organizations in fostering innovation. In addition to it, this experience at the AU made me consider the best way to support innovation in Africa: community building, venture capital, ecosystem enabler, etc. I have already organized the first AI week in Burkina Faso 3 months after the AU and the second edition will be expanded to Cote D'Ivoire. I am starting this year a consulting-led venture studio in a focused geography and technologies. So within the
The fellowship has been a very positive experience. I have learnt a lot about work and myself. I got to know that I’m very proactive and adventurous. Also, it has expanded my network, the people I worked with were very supportive and I learnt a lot from them. Also, I have improved my use of new skills to optimize my productivity. The mentorship sessions challenged me towards self discovery and using soft skills such as negotiation and social skills at the workplace. I have seen improvement in my performance and interaction with people.
next 5 years, I hope to reach several milestones related to this endeavor.
Amon Bazongo, Burkina Faso (AU Fellow)
Jelagat Kimosop, Kenya (AU Fellow)
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I have enjoyed working with the African Union despite the challenges. Coming from a fast-paced environment in the tech sector into a slower, inter-government space. The AU presented different opportunities to learn including lobbying, writing memos, relating with multicultural individuals. It's been great! I have gained several soft skills, however, the ability to navigate the workspace and its processes is one major skill/experience to note. The ability to read the situation, and navigate relationships and environment.
It’s been an awesome experience. Although the work setting and
arrangement appeared complicated at first, it’s been an interesting place to work and gain experience. Initially, I am a solo person who loves to get things done individually. But through this programme, I have learnt to work with people, multitask and attend long meetings while still delivering your task and objectives.
Obaloluwa Ajiboye, Nigeria (AU Fellow)
Esther Ndagire, Uganda (AU Fellow)
The experience has been amazing. I never imagined I was ever going to work at the AU. But being here as a young person, it gives me an opportunity to make my voice heard despite the challenges. The solution has improved availability of information across the department, as well as the commission. The office has been able to build on the previous achievement of the past youth envoy giving room for sustainability, and reduced duplication of work. The fellowship has built my experience in working in such a multilateral organizational setting. I have been exposed to new skills and tools such as the Microsoft Office Suite (Sharepoint and other power apps). I am certain that the experience I got through this fellowship will be relevant across different institutions that I may come across as my career progresses.
From the onboarding process to my work in the department, everything has been amazing. I met my supervisors and all associates colleagues, and I was taken through the entire requirement gathering process. They made sure I understood what was required for me to transform the department in order for them to efficiently improve their process. I am a core programmer, although I always work in the background because I had no confidence to talk about my solution. However, Ever since I joined the fellowship, I have gained confidence to speak about my solutions, presents to people and on any platform.
Tebalo Thathu, Lesotho (AU Fellow)
Sabina Forba, Cameroon (AU Fellow)
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It’s awesome to be within the AU and learn from the work that goes on here. My initial understanding of the AU was limited, compared to now that I have the inside experience. My participation in some of the projects such as the “Citizen Engagement Platform” gives me a sense of contribution to the large impact that the AU is making. Going forward, I can leverage this for my career growth and advancement.
It has been a great experience for me. My bachelor’s degree was in International relations, and has sort of prepared me for the formal and bureaucratic environment here. Most importantly, I ensured I understood the priorities of my office and how best to support them in terms of technology and other requirements. Over the period of the fellowship, I have learnt and improved on my communication and lobbying skills, which are essential skills
required to influence support from colleagues within the workplace.
Passy Mukami, Kenya (AU Fellow)
Other technical skills I have acquired include using important softwares like PowerBI and SharePoint, two of the main softwares used at the AU
The fellowship has been an enriching experience. It's an opportunity I didn’t think I would get at this time. I have learnt a lot about the AU, and also learnt about myself. I have had previous experience in the NGO and government, but this is a new experience for me, working with 55 member states is so amazing. Upon completion of this fellowship, I would be in a better position to engage organizations within the same scope. A major skill that I have acquired through this fellowship is Stakeholders engagement, in terms of dealing with political, private sector, and Civil So all to try and achieve a specific agenda. I have learnt how to communicate to all these stakeholders in a language that they would understand and to get their buy-in. I’m certain these experiences will be relevant for me in pursuing a career in the field of Governance and political participation. Also, my experience during this fellowship has built my skill in change management, as well as product management during my fellowship. I managed some of the products developed and was able to influence changes across my work.
Hana Erkou, Ethiopia (AU Fellow)
Working in the AU has been life changing. I realized a lot of things about myself both positive and areas that require improvement. I have met and interacted with great and brilliant people. Working here has impacted my work and life immensely. And this experience has influenced the direction and career I want to pursue, which is a Masters degree in International Relations. The fellowship has exposed me to new skills and experiences. Before the fellowship, I was only familiar with the basic Microsoft Office tools (MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel). Now, I have gained skills in the use of Power Automate, SharePoint, and other power apps which is so exciting, and would be helpful in my career. Beyond that, the relationship and knowledge I’ve gained is invaluable
Batshidi Selebogo, Botswana (AU Fellow)
Lorretta Kade, Kenya (AU Fellow)
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Project Name
GIZ-PAU Incubation Programme
Funder: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)Partners: Pan African University (PAU), and GIZ
This initiative, in partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and the Pan African University (PAU), aims to support the growth of startups and entrepreneurs in various sectors. Through incubation programs, selected participants receive guidance, access to resources, and connections to foster their business development and sustainability.
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Project Name
RevUP Women Initiative
Funders
RevUP Women is a dedicated program under AfriLabs that focuses on empowering women entrepreneurs and innovators across Africa. Through mentorship, training workshops, and networking events, RevUP Women provides support to women-led startups, helping them overcome challenges and succeed in their ventures. Beyond being a one-time program, the RevUP Women Initiative aims to create a lasting network of alumni and welcomes applicants for its next cohort. Its success with women has demonstrated that it can be a model applied across various industries, and AfriLabs looks forward to collaborating with partners ready to expand the value of this program.
Major activities carried out
500 female entrepreneurs selected from 10 cities across 5 countries in Africa.
1,021 female entrepreneurs selected from 10 cities across 5 countries in Africa.
1,183 total applicants
10 Implementing Hubs were showcased at (AfriLabs Annual Gathering) AAG’23
Revup website was developed to ensure that information on the initiative is centralized and can be easily accessed by stakeholders across the project
A RevUp Women Initiative Enterprise Development framework was developed to facilitate a
127 female led businesses
participated in the demo days across 10 the hubs for potential investment
standardized learning guide that can be adopted and contextualized across the pilot cities for the training
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REVUP WOMEN INITIATIVE
Major outcomes
1
2
3
444 Female Entrepreneurs Trained
A guide to support working mothers in technology and innovation was unveiled by RevUp Women at the AAG’23 showcase.
Gender Equality Publication AfriLabs and Disrupt Africa released a report highlighting the lack of gender diversity in African tech startups, both in team composition and funding rounds.
through tailored incubation and acceleration programmes on Enterprise Development.
SUCCESS STORIES
Revenue Growth: Thanks to RevUp’s guidance, we've experienced consistent revenue growth month after month. Their insights into our sales strategies have been invaluable Improved Customer Satisfaction: RevUp’s feedback has helped us enhance our customer service and product offerings. As a result, our customer satisfaction scores have risen significantly. Streamlined Operations: Their recommendations for process improvements have allowed us to operate more efficiently, reducing costs and increasing overall productivity. Expanded Market Reach: With RevUp’s support, we've successfully entered new markets and gained a broader customer base, increasing our market share. Enhanced Team Performance: Their coaching and training programs have boosted our team's performance and morale, leading to higher levels of collaboration and innovation. Customer retention: I was able to encourage 2 of the customers to increase their purchase due to suggestions given during the training.
I want to express my appreciation for RevUp’s unwavering commitment and dedication to our success. Through their consistent communication and valuable feedback, we have achieved significant milestones in our business. Some of our notable achievements include:
OKAYBEE FARMS
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Project Name
GCA Youth Adaptation Solutions Challenge 2022
Funders
The YouthADAPT Challenge is an annual competition and awards program jointly organized by GCA and the African Development Bank (AFDB). It aims to strengthen inclusive growth and broaden investment and economic opportunities for African youth. Winners of the YouthADAPT Challenge receive up to $100,000 in business grants and participate in a 12-month business accelerator program to help them scale up their businesses, deepen their impact and create decent jobs. Eighteen winners were selected in the Challenge’s second edition, launched in September 2022. The winners were showcased at COP27. The overall objective of the program is to Strengthening inclusive growth and broaden investment & economic opportunities for youth through entrepreneurial skills development, equipping young innovators and MSMEs with customized business development skills and resources including grant funding to scale up climate adaptation innovations and boost the creation of jobs
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YOUTHADAPT CHALLENGE
MAJOR ACTIVITIES
Completed 9 training modules and mentoring sessions with 4 experts with 18 climate adaptation innovators
Facilitated a webinar on Climate Finance
Profiled 18 winners on AfriLabs social media channels
MAJOR OUTCOMES
Disbursed a total of $540,000 to 18 startups.
30+ new jobs created
Trained over 500 community members to enhance their climate resilience and adaptation skills. 18 startups completed 9 training modules and 4 mentoring sessions each to enhance their capacity and scale their adaptation businesses.
Over $1 million in additional financing sourced by 18 innovators.
One webinar held in September on “Challenges of Scaling Up and Financing Youth-led Climate Adaptation in Africa: The Role of Innovation”
We have enjoyed the access to quality business development coaches and trainers, and the opportunity to expand our business through the grant
One of the things I enjoyed is meeting and networking with the other entrepreneurs and the flexibility of the assistance
Noël N'guessan Winner Cote d’Ivoire
Robin Ndungu Winner Kenya
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Project Name
LEAP-RE (Leading Electricity Access Practitioner Network for Renewable Energy)
Funders
LEAP-RE (Long-Term Joint Research and Innovation Partnership on Renewable Energy); AfriLabs partners with 80+ research partners in Europe and Africa supporting innovation and building renewable energy solutions together. It brings together stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy solutions and improve energy access in underserved communities. AfriLabs is contributing to the objectives of the project by Identifying and documenting a minimum of 100 ideas and business cases in the mini-grid sectors, and further generating a comprehensive database of solutions that can contribute to the growth and development of the mini-grid sector in Africa.
100 Ideas on mini-grid and renewable energy have been identified and updated in the Leap-re a database
50 young innovators selected to participate in a solution development workshop to enable them gain mentorship and guidance to bring their ideas in the mini grid sector to market
Contributed to the African Electricity Access and Mini-grid Landscape report
OUTCOME
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Project Name
ONEPlanET
Funders
AfriLabs is part of a consortium driving the ONEPlanET initiative aimed at advancing environmental sustainability and climate action in African countries. Through partnerships, capacity-building activities, and awareness campaigns, ONEPlanET encourages the adoption of eco-friendly practices, renewable energy solutions, and conservation efforts to mitigate climate change impacts. AfriLabs is leading the Support towards stakeholder engagement strategy and coordination of the participatory processes with stakeholder community, as well as, implementing Communication and dissemination of ONEPLANET activities such as achievement, results and solutions with stakeholders across Africa and Europe.
ONEPLANET Project will deploy renewable energy infrastructures that stimulates and evaluates pathways towards sustainable future in Africa ONE PLANET SUMMARY
Afrilabs Activities
Support ONEPLANET stakeholder engagement strategy and coordination of the participatory processes with stakeholder community
Carry out Communication and dissemination of ONEPLANET activities such as achievement, results and solutions with stakeholders across Africa and Europe.
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Expected Outcomes
Open Source Nexus Toolkit Create an Open-source system dynamic nexus capitalizing on knowledge from pre-existing nexus methodologies to support policy makers and stakeholders
Test and Validation Test and Validate toolkit in 3 African water basins
Knowledge sharing Foster practical usability of Nexus models ensuring the match between policy makers and modelers and improve learning among experts, policy makers
Afrilabs Result So Far
Collated a database of stakeholders across target pilot locations
Developed project logo, website and set up social media accounts (x, meta, instagram, LinkedIn)
Promoted 2 ONEPlanET Pilot workshops in 2 target locations (Inkomati-Usuthu, Songwe) on Social media
677 website visits
2,808 Newsletter opening
133 LinkedIn followers
2,808 Meta followers
191 Instagram followers
171 X followers (Prev. Twitter)
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Project Name
Project Name
UNFPA Mental Health & ASRHR HackLab
UNFPA FGM Hacklab
The UNFPA East and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO) in collaboration with AfriLabs aims to empower young people and offer them the opportunity to be game-changers and drivers of a future devoid of harmful practices. The innovation project was focused on young innovators, especially women, and girls, who have innovative solutions that will accelerate efforts toward UNFPA’s goals of ending gender-based violence, female genital mutilation, early pregnancies and other harmful practices by 2030.
This initiative, supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) ESARO and AfriLabs, addresses mental health challenges directly correlating with Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (ASRHR) in Africa through innovation and technology. It engages participants in developing digital tools, platforms, and awareness programs to raise mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and improve access to mental healthcare services.
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Project Name
AfriLabs Capacity Building Programme (ACBP)
Funders
Duration: 36 months Funding: €2 million from Agence Française de Développement (AFD) through the Digital Africa seed fund The AfriLabs Capacity Building Programme (ACBP) is designed to enhance the organizational capacity and sustainability of innovation hubs and tech communities in Africa. Through training, mentorship, and resource mobilization support, ACBP equips hub managers and staff with the skills, tools, and networks needed to effectively support startups and drive ecosystem growth. Programme Objectives The ACBP aims to strengthen innovation hubs across Africa, enabling them to attract investments and run local and regional impact-driven programs that support entrepreneurs and startups. This initiative contributes to the growth of the African innovation ecosystem. Key Features 1. Quarterly Hubs Learning Week: 12 sessions conducted to enhance knowledge sharing and collaborative learning among hubs. 2. Physical Workshops: 16 workshops held in 15 African cities, providing hands-on training and networking opportunities. 3. Funds Disbursement Components: Capacity Building Awards: €15,000 per selected innovation hub/ center. Virtual Meetup Grants: €2,000 per selected innovation hub/center. 4. Hub Management Certification Course: Certification for hub managers to improve management practices and operational efficiency.
5. Hubs in Residence: Residency programs to facilitate immersive learning and collaboration.
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6. Toolkits: Comprehensive resources on business development and investment management provided to hubs. Impact/Results So Far: 1. Training and Development: 3,029 hub managers and staff trained on topics such as financial management, effective mentoring, and preparing startups for investment. 2. Startup Support: 304 startups supported through business development training, funding, mentoring, and digital profiling. Over 200 of these are female-led startups. 3. Participant Training: 4,287 participants trained, with 62.5% being female, through Virtual Meetup grants activities. 4. Additional Funding: 21 out of 29 hubs that participated in the Capacity Building Awards Programme attracted additional funding, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in enhancing hub capabilities and investment appeal. The AfriLabs Capacity Building Programme has made significant strides in strengthening the African innovation ecosystem. By providing targeted training, funding, and resources, the ACBP has empowered hubs to support entrepreneurs and startups more effectively, fostering economic growth and innovation across the continent.
Hub Learning Week (HLW) Output in the last 3 years
7,000 + Paricipants: Have been trained through virtual learning sessions
75+ Facilitators and Key subject experts to deliver tailored learning sessions
54+ Countries reached Africa + Diaspora
12 Hub Learning (HLW) series completed
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Capacity Building Award
435,000 Euros Disbursed as grant to beneficiaries of the Capacity Building Awards
2,456 Participants Reached through capacity building events
51% Female participation
29 Hubs Benefitted from capacity building awards across different countries
603 + startups Benefitted from financial supports from their parent hubs
Improved COLLABORATION among innovation hubs within the African Innovation Ecosystem
Virtual Meetup Grant
12 VMG series Number of quarterly Virtual Meetup Series conducted
36 Hubs benefitted
120,000 Euros disbursed to Hubs for
204 Meetups held Across different countries and cities
Physical or Virtual meetup projects
60% Female participation
200+ Startups Supported with financial benefit
6400+ Entrepreneurs trained through meetups
Physical Workshop 335+ Hub managers
14 Physical Workshop conducted across14 cities
10 Innovation Hubs Engaged to host Physical workshops
28+ Ecosystem expert engaged as facilitator during workshop sessions
Trained through tailored capacity building workshop sessions
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Over the past 3 years, The AfriLabs Capacity Building Programme sustained noticeable impact while addressing key needs identified across the ecosystem
350+ Hubs Benefitted from funding program
Over 1 million Euros Disbursed to hubs through CBA, VMG, and Physical Workshops
850+ Startups Supported with financial benefit through hubs
15,000+ Entrepreneurs trained through
150+ Ecosystem Experts Engaged directly through ACBP activities
capacity building programs
2019 Need Assessment
Need for adequate training on hub management
Poor job creation capacity
Need for training on funding program for entrepreneur
Need for coaching and mentorship
2022 Impact Assessment 89%
of hubs reported improvement in Hub management outcomes
69% 79% 80% 67%
of Aueractinew staffas a result of ACBP activities
techniques and approadraising techniques and approach of hubs conduct mentorship program to support startups of hubs noticed improvement in partnership and collaboration
2023 Impact Assessment 95% of hub's programme implementation capacity Strengthened 90% of hub's support to Startup community Strengthened 80% of hub'sgrantfunding and investment attraction capacity increased 87% of hubs recorded strategic stakeholders' engagement, collaboration and partnership 12,000 + Direct and indirect jobs created across participating hubs
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The AfriLabs Connect Deal Room (ACDR): A Beacon of Success for Investors and Entrepreneurs
The AfriLabs Community Deal Room (ACDR) has proven to be a resounding success in its first year out, bringing together a dynamic network of investors and innovative startups across Africa. The initiative, launched by AfriLabs, aims to bridge the gap between African entrepreneurs and global investors, fostering a thriving ecosystem that drives economic growth and technological advancement. Investor Partners and Their Impact The ACDR has attracted a diverse group of investor partners, each bringing a unique perspective and a wealth of resources to the table. Among the notable investors are: supporting entrepreneurs launching businesses in the United States, this firm has shown a keen interest in long- term investments, particularly in early-stage startups. 1. International Accelerator: Focused on foreign-born 2. Nexterra Capital: With a commitment to both financial returns and socioeconomic impact, Nexterra Capital seeks investments with a 24 year horizon, emphasizing the importance of socioeconomic benefits alongside financial gains. 3. Renew Capital: This firm blends financial returns with a focus on sustainable social impact, investing in both shortterm and longterm projects. They prioritize investments with strong traction and clear potential for impact. 4. Churchgate Group: Primarily interested in financial returns, this group is agnostic towards the specific focus of startups, evaluating opportunities based on growth potential and market opportunities. These investors collectively manage substantial funds averaging over $500,000 investment
ready capital, which they are eager to deploy in promising startups across the continent. Their combined expertise and financial power have been instrumental in nurturing a vibrant innovation ecosystem. Looking Forward: Growing the Deal Room As AfriLabs looks ahead to 2024, the focus remains on expanding the ACDR and enhancing its impact. The goal is to create the largest ecosystem of connected innovation hubs in Africa, a network capable of producing valuable entrepreneurs ready to make a global impact. Key to this growth is the collaboration with Business Support Organizations (BSOs) and an expanding network of hubs. These hubs serve as the incubators for entrepreneurial talent, providing resources, mentorship, and access to markets. By leveraging the strengths of both the BSOs and the hubs, AfriLabs aims to create a fertile ground for startups to thrive. The ACDR is more than just a platform for connecting investors and entrepreneurs; it is a catalyst for economic growth and technological advancement in Africa. With the continued support of its investor partners and the dedication of the AfriLabs team, the future looks bright for African innovation. The success of the ACDR in 2023 is a testament to the strength and potential of Africa’s tech ecosystem. By continuing to foster connections between investors and entrepreneurs, AfriLabs is not only supporting the growth of startups but also contributing to the broader economic development of the continent. As we move into 2024, the anticipation for even greater achievements is palpable, with AfriLabs poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of innovation in Africa.
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