MEST Africa, a leading pan-African software and entrepreneurship training program, seed fund, and incubator, has selected 45 standout technology startups to advance to the regional finals of the 2023 MEST Africa Challenge (MAC).
Hailing from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa, these startups have been recognized for their potential to shape the future of technology on the continent. The grand prize at stake is a coveted USD 50,000 in equity investment, along with the prospect of a long-term partnership and ongoing support from MEST Africa.
MAC sets the stage for early stage startups to display their innovative solutions and tech-driven ventures. With a comprehensive selection process that rigorously evaluates each entry, the competition attracts the continent’s most promising tech entrepreneurs. The startups moving forward embody a wide array of sectors — from Agritech to Fintech, SaaS, eCommerce, Digital Media, and Healthcare — showcasing the rich tapestry of African innovation.
These regional finalists were chosen for their exceptional use of technology to solve real and significant challenges within Africa’s vibrant markets. They have introduced solutions ranging from AI-driven efficiencies in agriculture to financial technology that expands access to economic resources for marginalized populations. These finalists are a testament to the ingenuity emerging from Africa’s tech ecosystems and set the stage for a compelling Regional Pitch Competition.
List of Finalists
Kenya
| Startup | Sector |
| Mywagepay | Fintech |
| Snark Health Limited | Healthcare |
| Urbantechforhope.com | Healthcare |
| Pigee Inc | Logistics, B2B2C, AI, Tourism, Marketplace, Changing Consumer, E-Commerce, Emerging Markets |
| Letaji Technologies | Construction |
| Investa Farm | Fintech, Agritech |
| Tulix | Fintech |
| Circularity Space Itd | Cleantech and AI |
| Digital Realm Entertainment® Inc. | Technology/Creative: Gaming, Interactive Entertainment |
| Moti Inc | Smart Mobility |
Ghana
| Startup | Sector |
| Edanra Limited | Proptech & Fintech |
| Eazy Chain | Logistics and supply chain |
| FlowersGH LTD | E-Commerce/floriculture |
| Tourizilla | Tourism and Hospitality |
| QKnow Edtech | Education |
| Bouquet | E-commerce |
| Masters Hive Center for Innovation | Information Technology, STEM Education |
| FarmWallet Limited | Agritech |
| Chestify AI Labs | Healthcare |
| Advance Pharma Innovations | Health Technology |
Senegal
| Startup | Sector |
| SAYNA | Education & Future of work & Software Development |
| Microact | Agritech – eCommerce/Retail |
| Yoonema | E-commerce |
| RAYNIS | Sustainable and digital transport |
| InterSIP International | Information and Communication Technologies for Development |
Nigeria
| Startup | Sector |
| Doktorconnect | Healthcare |
| OneHealth | Healthcare |
| Sproutly Inc. | Financial Services |
| ibloov | Leisure and hospitality |
| HealthGo Inc | Healthcare |
| Innovastra Limited | Healthcare |
| SmartTeller | Financial Technology |
| Artisan Oga | Online Recruitment Platform |
| Blueroom Care | Healthtech |
| Konnadex Technologies Ltd | Fintech ,Blockchain |
South Africa
| Startup | Sector |
| Koa Academy | Edtech |
| ESusFarm Africa | Agritech |
| BOS Technology Pty Ltd T/A BOS.Pay™ | FinTech |
| Insaaph Capital | Fintech |
| Smart Food Growing Technologies (SF Tec) | Manufacturing |
| DeepLeaf | Agritech |
| Thola | Agriculture |
| Aurora Media Group | Media Technology |
| Safe Africa | Emergency response services |
| Biocertica | MedTech / BioTech |
As the competition advances, these startups will compete to demonstrate their potential impact to a panel of judges. The aim is not only to secure a place in the final pitch but also to gain visibility, connect with investors, and potentially receive funding to scale their impact.
Stay tuned for the Regional Pitch Competition, where innovation meets opportunity, as we spotlight the talents shaping Africa’s technological future.
For more information and updates on the MEST Africa Challenge, visit https://meltwater.org/mac/.
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