The Obuntu Foundation has announced the second class of its fellowship of Africa-focused emerging venture investors.
The Obuntu Foundation, in an effort to foster innovation and economic growth in Africa, has established the Obuntu Launchpad Fellowship, which is co-designed with and delivered by African and global leaders in VC.
The Launchpad’s sessions are driven by leaders from pre-eminent African VCs like Partech, TLcom and Helios, as well as global VCs like Hustle Fund, Better Tomorrow Ventures and Rarebreed Ventures.
The newest 15 fellows are based in South Africa, Nigeria, Senegal, Egypt, Kenya, Zambia, Mauritius, and the US.
“We’re in a climate where many global and Africa-focused LPs have not only held back from making new commitments to true emerging GPs, but have in some cases pulled back from fulfilling earlier commitments to invest in first time GPs in Africa. At the Obuntu Foundation we believe that now is exactly the time to ramp up commitment to trailblazers that will define the future of VC in Africa,” said Asta Diabaté, co-founder of Obuntu Foundation.
The 15 new fellows – who will join a network of nine fellows who began their fellowship in January – include Aly El Shalakany of Acacia Ventures, Egypt; Thandeka Xaba of Digital Africa Ventures, South Africa; Ayodeji Arikawe of Velocity Digital, Nigeria; Thaheer Mullins of Savant, South Africa; Laurent Fayolle of DotExe Ventures, Mauritius; Laissa Mouen of Kinaya Ventures, Senegal; Shiluba Mawela of Tshiamo Impact Partners, South Africa; and Amaka Opara of WEAV Capital, Nigeria.
“Diversity and founder experience are bedrock elements of a thriving venture capital ecosystem. Inclusion of diverse lived experiences not only reflects the multifaceted nature of our world but also brings a rich tapestry of perspectives to the table. It’s this diversity that fuels innovation and ensures that investment decisions are not one-dimensional. Founder experience as well, is an incredibly useful compass that guides VCs through the complex landscape of entrepreneurship. Those who’ve been in the trenches understand the nuances, the risks, and the rewards like no one else. The Obuntu Foundation champions diversity and founder experience, to not only create a more equitable ecosystem but also pave the way for more informed, impactful, and sustainable investments,” said Aaron Fu, co-founder of Obuntu Foundation.
