Seven African tech startups have been named by the World Economic Forum (WEF) among its selection of the 100 most promising Technology Pioneers of 2022 – companies that are shaping industries from healthcare to retail and many more.
The WEF Technology Pioneers are early to growth-stage companies from around the world that are involved in the use of new technologies and innovation that are poised to have a significant impact on business and society.
This year’s cohort, which can be viewed here, includes seven from Africa. Three of those are from Nigeria – Alerzo, which offers on-demand inventory distribution and financial services for small informal stores; Shuttlers, a tech-enabled scheduled mass-transit solutions for individuals and companies; and Vendease, an online marketplace that allows restaurants and other food businesses to buy supplies straight from manufacturers and farms.
Two are from South Africa, in the shape of Dove Air, which uses advanced Urban Air Mobility technology for aid delivery and maritime conservation; and Omnisient, which has created a trust-by-design environment for businesses to collaborate on their first party data securely, quickly and easily while remaining compliant with consumer data privacy regulations.
Ghanaian agri-tech startup Farmerline and Kenyan solar irrigation company SunCulture complete the list.
“We are honoured and excited to join the prestigious World Economic Forum’s Technology Pioneer community. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to solving pressing challenges in the African food sector, particularly in the areas of food waste reduction and product innovation across the demand and supply sides of the food services ecosystem,” said Vendease CEO Tunde Kara.
“Joining the World Economic Forum’s Technology Pioneer community enables us to collaborate with like-minded pioneers, thought leaders and policymakers who share our vision of building a more resilient and equitable food ecosystem.”
