Top 10 African Startups by Female Entrepreneurs Driving Economic Growth

Africa is witnessing a surge of innovation and entrepreneurship, much of it spearheaded by dynamic female entrepreneurs. These women are not just breaking glass ceilings; they are building companies that are transforming industries, creating jobs, and contributing to the economic growth of their countries. Here’s a look at ten of the most inspiring African startups founded by women, and how they are making an impact.

1. LifeBank (Nigeria) - Temie Giwa-Tubosun

Sector: Healthcare

LifeBank is a healthcare technology and logistics company that connects hospitals with essential medical supplies, including blood and oxygen. Founded by Temie Giwa-Tubosun, LifeBank has revolutionized the way hospitals source blood, saving countless lives. The startup is not only critical in improving healthcare delivery but also plays a significant role in reducing maternal and child mortality rates in Nigeria.

Economic Impact: By enhancing healthcare logistics, LifeBank is indirectly boosting productivity by ensuring a healthier workforce, which is essential for economic growth.

2. Moringa School (Kenya) - Audrey Cheng

Sector: Education

Moringa School offers intensive tech courses that equip young Africans with the skills needed to thrive in the global tech industry. Audrey Cheng, the founder, has created a pipeline of talent for the continent's growing tech sector. Moringa School’s focus on practical skills and job placement has made it a critical player in bridging the skills gap in Africa.

Economic Impact: By producing highly skilled tech professionals, Moringa School is contributing to the development of a vibrant tech ecosystem in Kenya, attracting investment and fostering innovation.

3. Baobab Circle (Kenya) - Precious Lunga

Sector: HealthTech

Baobab Circle, co-founded by Precious Lunga, is a health technology company offering personalized health services through mobile technology. Its flagship app, Afya Pap, provides users with access to doctors, health information, and chronic disease management tools. This innovation is crucial in improving access to healthcare in remote areas.

Economic Impact: By improving health outcomes, Baobab Circle is enhancing productivity and reducing healthcare costs, contributing to the overall economic stability of communities.

4. Thrive Agric (Nigeria) - Uka Eje and Adia Sowho

Sector: Agriculture

Thrive Agric connects farmers with investors through a crowdfunding platform, enabling small-scale farmers to access the capital they need to scale their operations. Adia Sowho, who joined Thrive Agric as CEO, has been instrumental in expanding the startup’s impact across Nigeria.

Economic Impact: By empowering farmers, Thrive Agric is boosting agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and creating jobs in rural areas, thereby driving economic growth.

5. Lula Loop (South Africa) - Karabo Nkoana

Sector: FashionTech

Lula Loop is a fashion-tech startup founded by Karabo Nkoana. It operates a subscription-based platform that allows parents to rent high-quality baby and toddler clothing. This model promotes sustainability and affordability, catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions in the fashion industry.

Economic Impact: By promoting sustainable fashion, Lula Loop is contributing to a circular economy in South Africa, reducing waste, and creating jobs in the fashion sector.

6. SAEON Green Consulting (South Africa) - Sandisiwe Ncanywa

Sector: Environmental Consulting

SAEON Green Consulting, founded by Sandisiwe Ncanywa, provides environmental management services to businesses in South Africa. The company focuses on helping organizations comply with environmental regulations, reduce their carbon footprint, and adopt sustainable practices.

Economic Impact: By promoting sustainable business practices, SAEON Green Consulting is helping to protect natural resources, which is vital for long-term economic sustainability.

7. Kasha (Rwanda) - Joanna Bichsel

Sector: E-commerce/HealthTech

Kasha is an e-commerce platform that focuses on women’s health and personal care products. Founded by Joanna Bichsel, Kasha operates in Rwanda and Kenya, offering discreet delivery services for essential products like sanitary pads, contraceptives, and health information.

Economic Impact: Kasha is empowering women by improving access to health products, which in turn supports their participation in the workforce and contributes to economic growth.

8. Wazi Vision (Uganda) - Brenda Katwesigye

Sector: HealthTech

Wazi Vision provides affordable eye care solutions using virtual reality and 3D printing technology. Founded by Brenda Katwesigye, Wazi Vision offers cost-effective eye testing and custom-made glasses for children and adults in Uganda, addressing the challenge of limited access to eye care services.

Economic Impact: By improving access to eye care, Wazi Vision is enhancing educational and work opportunities for many, which directly contributes to economic development.

9. Farming Hope (Ghana) - Wendy Laryea

Sector: AgriTech

Farming Hope is an agritech startup that leverages technology to improve farming practices in Ghana. Founded by Wendy Laryea, the startup provides farmers with training, access to markets, and tools to enhance productivity. The company is committed to reducing post-harvest losses and increasing the profitability of farming.

Economic Impact: Farming Hope is playing a crucial role in strengthening the agricultural sector, which is a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy, by enhancing food security and creating jobs.

10. LulaRide (South Africa) - Ntuthuko Shezi

Sector: TransportTech

LulaRide is a ride-sharing platform designed to provide safe, affordable, and efficient transportation options in South Africa. Founded by Ntuthuko Shezi, LulaRide focuses on serving communities with limited access to reliable public transport.

Economic Impact: By improving mobility, LulaRide is enhancing access to jobs, education, and healthcare, which are essential for economic growth and development.

Conclusion

These ten startups are a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of African women entrepreneurs. They are not only building successful businesses but also driving significant social and economic change across the continent. Their contributions are helping to shape the future of Africa, creating a ripple effect that will be felt for generations to come. As more women step into leadership roles, the African startup ecosystem will continue to thrive, fueling economic growth and creating a more inclusive and prosperous society.