News – The Tony Elumelu Foundation

Africa-First: How the Tony Elumelu Foundation Is Redefining Venture Pipelines

Grace matthew — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:11:05 +0000

Africa-first: Global corporations are under growing pressure to diversify supply chains and deliver measurable social impact. Meanwhile, African entrepreneurs are producing solutions that are bold, market-ready, and deeply attuned to local realities.

The problem is not innovation; it is access. Corporate procurement systems are often built for legacy suppliers, leaving new and agile ventures shut out before they even have a chance.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has spent the last decade closing that gap. By funding, training, and mentoring more than 2.5 million young Africans with digital training via TEFConnect, the Tony Elumelu Foundation has created exactly what global companies need: a reliable, de-risked pipeline of suppliers who combine commercial viability with social impact.

Why Africa Matters for Corporate Procurement

The case for an Africa-first sourcing strategy goes far beyond corporate social responsibility:

Risk diversification: The pandemic and recent geopolitical shocks have highlighted the dangers of over-reliance on a few supply hubs. Africa’s regional spread offers resilience against global disruption.
ESG alignment: African ventures are already innovating in sustainability. From waste recycling into construction materials to solar-powered energy access, partnerships here directly advance environmental, social, and governance metrics.
Market insight: Africa’s unique conditions have generated hyper-local innovations — in logistics, agritech, and fintech — that global corporates can integrate for competitive advantage.
Growth frontier: Integrating African suppliers are not just about sourcing; it builds brand loyalty and local trust in some of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.

From Seed Support to Scalable Supplier

The Tony Elumelu Foundation’s approach goes beyond seed funding. Alumni are trained to meet the governance, reporting, and operational standards that corporates expect.

This transforms what was once a scattered field of ventures into a structured pipeline. Corporations do not need to start from scratch; they can engage directly with TEF-prepared businesses that are already demonstrating traction.

A Case in Point: Expendo Mobility

Michael Wambugu, a 2019 TEF beneficiary from Kenya, founded Expendo Mobility, a Nairobi-based company supporting the continent’s transport gig economy. His venture provides financial and health solutions to boda boda riders, couriers, and other mobility workers who form the backbone of Africa’s logistics networks.

Through Expendo Mobility, riders gain access to:

Discounted consumables such as fuel, lubricants, and spare parts to reduce operating costs.
Affordable microinsurance products like “Hosi Bill,” which covers medical expenses.
Embedded finance solutions, integrated with SACCOs, to simplify deposits, withdrawals, and credit.
Reliable vehicle servicing, ensuring safety and productivity on the road.

With the Tony Elumelu Foundation training and seed funding, Michael was able to formalise his model, build market traction, and position Expendo as a scalable partner for corporates reliant on last-mile logistics. For procurement teams, this is not simply a small vendor; it is a company providing efficiency, resilience, and impact within a sector that underpins supply chains across Africa.

The Broader Picture

Expendo Mobility is one of thousands of stories across the TEF network. From food processing ventures in Nigeria to clean water solutions in South Africa, TEF alumni are proving that the continent has both the talent and the discipline to deliver at scale. Each venture represents not just an individual success, but also a piece of a larger puzzle: the construction of an Africa-first venture pipeline.

Corporate leaders have long spoken of the need for more inclusive supply chains. The Tony Elumelu Foundation has already built the bridge. Its alumni are trained, vetted, and impact driven. For companies serious about diversifying procurement and tapping into Africa’s growth, the answer is not to wonder where the partners are. They exist. They are Tony Elumelu entrepreneurs.

The pipeline is ready. The next step is corporate action.

The post Africa-First: How the Tony Elumelu Foundation Is Redefining Venture Pipelines appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

تافادزوا تشيكويريتي تساعد المزارعين على اتخاذ قرارات أكثر ذكاءً باستخدام الذكاء الاصطناعي

Grace matthew — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 13:04:11 +0000

For Tafadzwa Chikwereti, technology is not replacing farmers’ knowledge—it is enhancing it.

For generations, farming has relied on experience, observation and instinct. Today, those instincts are being strengthened by technology.

Artificial intelligence, satellite imagery and digital advisory platforms are changing how farmers understand their crops, respond to changing weather patterns and make decisions that directly affect yields. Across Africa, these technologies are becoming powerful tools in addressing one of agriculture’s biggest challenges: making better decisions before problems become costly.

As the Co-Founder of eAgro Pvt Ltd, he is helping smallholder farmers access timely, data-driven insights that improve productivity, strengthen climate resilience and make agriculture more efficient.

Tafadzwa Chikwereti believes information can be as valuable as rainfall

A healthy harvest often depends on making the right decision at the right time.

Knowing when crops need attention, understanding soil conditions or anticipating changing weather patterns can significantly influence agricultural outcomes. Yet many smallholder farmers lack access to the tools and information needed to make those decisions confidently.

Recognising this gap, Tafadzwa Chikwereti شارك في تأسيسها eAgro Pvt Ltd, an agritech company that combines artificial intelligence, satellite technology and digital communication to make agricultural intelligence more accessible.

Instead of requiring farmers to invest in expensive equipment or specialised software, eAgro delivers practical recommendations through familiar channels such as واتساب و SMS, ensuring that innovation reaches the people who need it most.

eAgro is making precision agriculture more accessible

Modern agriculture is increasingly driven by data, but technology only creates value when it is practical and easy to use.

Through eAgro, farmers can access crop health monitoring, soil insights and climate-informed recommendations that support day-to-day decision-making.

The platform enables growers to identify potential issues earlier, respond to changing environmental conditions and improve farm management using information that was previously difficult to obtain.

This approach is particularly valuable for smallholder farmers, who often face resource constraints while managing increasingly unpredictable weather patterns linked to climate change.

By combining advanced technology with accessible delivery channels, eAgro demonstrates how digital innovation can reduce barriers to agricultural knowledge and strengthen rural livelihoods

The Tony Elumelu Foundation helped strengthen Tafadzwa Chikwereti’s vision

في 2024, Tafadzwa Chikwereti was selected for the برنامج مؤسسة توني إلوميلو لريادة الأعمال, joining thousands of entrepreneurs across Africa building businesses that solve local challenges through innovation.

ومن خلال هذا البرنامج، حصل على US$5,000 كرأس مال تأسيسي, business training, mentorship and access to the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s pan-African entrepreneurial network.

For a technology-driven business operating in agriculture, these resources provide opportunities to refine business strategy, strengthen operations and connect with fellow innovators addressing similar development challenges across the continent.

The programme reinforces the Foundation’s belief that African entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to create solutions that respond to local realities while contributing to sustainable economic growth.

Why Tafadzwa Chikwereti’s work matters

Agriculture remains one of Africa’s largest economic sectors, employing millions of people and supporting food security across the continent.

Helping farmers make more informed decisions can improve productivity, reduce losses and strengthen resilience against climate-related risks.

Through eAgro, Tafadzwa Chikwereti is contributing to a future where access to agricultural intelligence is no longer limited by geography or infrastructure.

His work highlights how digital innovation can empower farmers rather than replace traditional agricultural knowledge, creating practical solutions that improve productivity while supporting long-term sustainability.

As Africa’s agricultural sector continues its digital transformation, entrepreneurs like Tafadzwa Chikwereti are helping ensure that technology becomes an inclusive tool for development rather than an exclusive advantage.

The future of African agriculture will depend not only on stronger seeds or larger farms but also on better decisions.

Tafadzwa Chikwereti envisions an agricultural ecosystem where every farmer—regardless of location—can access reliable information that improves productivity and strengthens resilience.

As eAgro continues to develop new digital tools and expand its reach, the company is helping demonstrate that innovation in agriculture is not measured by the sophistication of technology alone. It is measured by the difference that technology makes in farmers’ lives.

For Tafadzwa Chikwereti, the goal is clear: ensure that every data point collected translates into better decisions, stronger harvests and more sustainable livelihoods across Africa.

The post Tafadzwa Chikwereti Is Helping Farmers Make Smarter Decisions with AI appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

تاواندا ماروزا تعمل على توسيع نطاق الوصول إلى الطاقة الشمسية في زيمبابوي

Grace matthew — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:26:44 +0000

For Tawanda Maruza, renewable energy offers more than an alternative power source—it offers the opportunity to build stronger communities and more resilient businesses.

Electricity powers opportunity. It keeps businesses running, students learning after sunset and healthcare facilities operating when communities need them most. Yet for many households and businesses across Africa, reliable access to electricity remains one of the biggest barriers to economic growth.

Through Ex Africa Energy, Tawanda Maruza is helping expand access to affordable solar energy across Zimbabwe, providing practical solutions for homes, businesses, and off-grid communities seeking dependable electricity.

Tawanda Maruza believes energy access is an economic opportunity

Energy is often discussed as infrastructure, but its impact reaches much further.

Reliable electricity enables entrepreneurs to increase productivity, allows schools to extend learning hours and gives healthcare providers greater confidence in delivering essential services.

Recognising this, Tawanda Maruza has dedicated his entrepreneurial journey to supporting Zimbabwe’s transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy.

As a professional associated with Ex Africa Energy, he contributes to the company’s mission of delivering solar power systems and energy-efficient solutions that respond to the everyday needs of customers while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.

Rather than treating renewable energy as a luxury, Ex Africa Energy positions solar technology as a practical investment in long-term resilience and economic development.

Ex Africa Energy is helping power Zimbabwe’s future

Founded to support the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions, Ex Africa Energy provides solar installations and renewable energy systems for residential, commercial and off-grid applications.

Its work reflects a broader transformation taking place across Africa, where طاقة متجددة is becoming an increasingly important driver of economic inclusion and environmental sustainability.

By delivering clean energy solutions, the company is helping customers improve energy reliability while encouraging greater adoption of environmentally responsible technologies.

As demand for affordable electricity continues to grow, businesses like Ex Africa Energy demonstrate how entrepreneurship can accelerate the transition towards cleaner and more resilient energy systems.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation strengthened Tawanda Maruza’s entrepreneurial journey

في 2024, Tawanda Maruza was selected for the برنامج مؤسسة توني إلوميلو لريادة الأعمال, joining thousands of entrepreneurs from across all 54 African countries working to solve local challenges through business innovation.

ومن خلال هذا البرنامج، حصل على US$5,000 كرأس مال تأسيسي, business training, mentorship and access to the Tony Elumelu Foundation Alumni Network.

For entrepreneurs operating in fast-evolving sectors such as renewable energy, access to knowledge, experienced mentors and a continent-wide entrepreneurial ecosystem can be as valuable as financial investment.

The programme has strengthened Tawanda Maruza’s capacity to continue supporting Ex Africa Energy’s mission of expanding clean, reliable and affordable energy solutions across Zimbabwe.

Why Tawanda Maruza’s work matters

Africa’s economic future depends on more than generating electricity. It depends on ensuring that energy reaches the people and businesses capable of creating jobs, strengthening communities and driving innovation.

Through Ex Africa Energy, Tawanda Maruza is contributing to that future by supporting renewable energy solutions that make electricity more accessible and environmentally sustainable.

His work reflects a growing generation of African entrepreneurs who recognise that clean energy is not simply an environmental priority—it is a foundation for inclusive economic growth.

By helping households, businesses and off-grid communities’ access solar power, Tawanda Maruza is demonstrating how entrepreneurship can create practical solutions to one of the continent’s most pressing development challenges.

Tawanda Maruza continues to support the growth of Ex Africa Energy with a vision of expanding access to reliable renewable energy while contributing to Zimbabwe’s sustainable development.

As solar technology becomes increasingly important to Africa’s energy landscape, businesses like Ex Africa Energy will play an essential role in helping communities become more energy secure.

For Tawanda Maruza, every solar installation represents more than a source of electricity. It represents a step towards greater opportunity, stronger businesses and a future powered by sustainable innovation.

The post Tawanda Maruza Is Expanding Solar Energy Access in Zimbabwe appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

ماتيلدي رونغو تساعد الشركات الموزمبيقية على مواكبة المستقبل الرقمي

Grace matthew — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:45:14 +0000

Many businesses struggle not because digital tools are unavailable, but because they lack the expertise to implement them strategically. Successful digital transformation requires more than software—it requires leadership, planning, and a clear understanding of how technology creates value. That is where Matilde Rungo has found her purpose.

As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of RealityTech Advisory, Matilde Rungo is helping businesses harness technology to improve efficiency, strengthen cybersecurity and build resilient organisations prepared for the future.

Matilde Rungo believes digital transformation starts with strategy

For many companies, adopting new technology can feel overwhelming. Investments in digital tools often fail to deliver meaningful results when they are introduced without clear business objectives or organisational readiness.

Matilde Rungo established RealityTech Advisory to bridge that gap.

The consultancy works with startups and established organisations to design technology strategies that align innovation with business growth. From digital transformation planning to cybersecurity and technology advisory services, RealityTech helps organisations make informed decisions that improve operational performance while preparing them for an increasingly digital economy.

Rather than viewing technology as an end in itself, Matilde Rungo approaches innovation as a business capability—one that should solve problems, strengthen resilience and create sustainable competitive advantage.

Building businesses that are ready for tomorrow

Across Africa, digital transformation is becoming essential rather than optional.

Businesses that embrace innovation are better positioned to improve productivity, respond to changing customer expectations and compete in both local and international markets.

Through RealityTech Advisory, Matilde Rungo supports organisations as they navigate this transition, helping them adopt practical, technology-driven solutions that strengthen long-term sustainability.

Her work extends beyond implementing digital systems. It focuses on enabling organisations to build the confidence, capabilities and strategic mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In Mozambique’s growing technology ecosystem, this type of guidance is becoming increasingly valuable as businesses seek trusted partners to support their digital journeys.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation strengthened Matilde Rungo’s entrepreneurial journey

في 2024, Matilde Rungo انضم إلى برنامج مؤسسة توني إلوميلو لريادة الأعمال, becoming part of a continent-wide network of entrepreneurs developing innovative solutions to Africa’s biggest challenges.

Through the programme, she received US$5,000 كرأس مال تأسيسي, business training, mentorship and access to the Tony Elumelu Foundation Alumni Network.

For a technology entrepreneur operating in a fast-changing sector, these resources provide more than financial support. They offer opportunities to strengthen business strategy, refine growth plans and connect with fellow founders building technology-driven enterprises across Africa.

The Foundation’s support complements Matilde Rungo’s vision of using innovation to help businesses become more resilient, competitive and prepared for the digital future.

Why Matilde Rungo’s work matters

Africa’s digital economy is expected to play an increasingly significant role in the continent’s economic growth over the coming decades.

Realising that potential depends not only on developing new technologies but also on helping businesses use them effectively.

Through RealityTech Advisory, Matilde Rungo is contributing to that transformation by making digital innovation more accessible to organisations seeking sustainable growth.

Her work demonstrates that successful digital transformation is not measured by the number of technologies adopted. It is measured by how effectively those technologies help organisations solve problems, improve performance and create lasting value.

As more African businesses accelerate their digital ambitions, entrepreneurs like Matilde Rungo will continue to play an important role in shaping a more connected, innovative and resilient economy.

For Matilde Rungo, technology is ultimately about enabling people and organisations to achieve more.

As RealityTech Advisory continues to grow, the company aims to expand its contribution to digital transformation, cybersecurity and innovation across Mozambique and the wider African market.

Her entrepreneurial journey reflects the growing influence of African technology leaders who are building businesses that strengthen economic resilience while helping organisations embrace the opportunities of digital change.

In an increasingly connected world, competitive advantage belongs not simply to those with access to technology, but to those who know how to use it well. Through RealityTech Advisory, Matilde Rungo is helping ensure more African businesses are ready for that future.

The post Matilde Rungo Is Helping Mozambican Businesses Navigate the Digital Future appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

كيف تمنح سيبتيا موهاندو النفايات الزراعية حياة جديدة من خلال «الوقود الأخضر»

Grace matthew — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:44:53 +0000

Across Zambia, charcoal remains one of the most widely used sources of cooking fuel. For millions of households, it is an everyday necessity. Yet its widespread use has also contributed to one of the country’s biggest environmental challenges: deforestation. Septiya Muhandu believes the solution is not simply to ask people to stop using charcoal—it is to offer them a better option.

As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Green Fire Innovation Limited (Green Fire Zambia), Septiya Muhandu is transforming agricultural and industrial waste into eco-friendly charcoal briquettes that provide cleaner, more sustainable fuel for homes and businesses. His work demonstrates how environmental innovation can protect natural resources while creating practical solutions that people can adopt every day.

Septiya Muhandu is rethinking what waste can become

Agricultural residues are often treated as little more than waste. Across farming communities, biomass is frequently burned, discarded or left to decompose, despite its potential to become a valuable energy resource.

Septiya Muhandu saw an opportunity hidden within this challenge.

Through Green Fire, he has developed a business that converts agricultural and industrial waste into renewable charcoal briquettes, creating products that reduce pressure on Zambia’s forests while promoting cleaner energy alternatives.

Rather than extracting more natural resources, Green Fire focuses on maximising the value of materials that already exist. The result is a business model rooted in the principles of the circular economy, where waste becomes a resource instead of a burden.

Green Fire is building a cleaner future for Zambia

Environmental sustainability and economic opportunity often go hand in hand.

By producing affordable charcoal briquettes from biomass waste, Green Fire addresses several challenges simultaneously. The company supports waste reduction, encourages renewable energy adoption and provides households and businesses with an environmentally responsible alternative to conventional charcoal.

This approach creates benefits that extend beyond environmental conservation. It also contributes to local economic activity by creating value from agricultural by-products that might otherwise go unused.

As conversations around climate resilience and clean energy continue to gain momentum across Africa, businesses like Green Fire illustrate how local innovation can contribute to broader environmental goals while responding to everyday needs.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation helped strengthen Septiya Muhandu’s entrepreneurial journey

في 2024, Septiya Muhandu was selected for the برنامج مؤسسة توني إلوميلو لريادة الأعمال, joining a network of entrepreneurs working to solve Africa’s most pressing challenges through business.

As part of the programme, he received US$5,000 كرأس مال تأسيسي, business training, mentorship and access to the Foundation’s pan-African entrepreneurial ecosystem.

For Green Fire, this support provided more than financial resources. It strengthened the company’s capacity to refine its business model, develop its growth strategy and connect with entrepreneurs across the continent who are building innovative, impact-driven enterprises.

The Foundation’s investment reflects a broader belief that Africa’s transition to a greener economy will be driven not only by policy but also by entrepreneurs creating practical, scalable solutions.

Why Septiya’s work matters

The future of sustainable energy in Africa depends on businesses that make environmentally responsible choices accessible and affordable.

Septiya Muhandu is part of a new generation of entrepreneurs proving that climate innovation does not have to rely on expensive technologies or imported solutions. Sometimes, meaningful change begins by rethinking resources that communities already have.

Through Green Fire, Septiya Muhandu is helping reduce dependence on traditional charcoal while encouraging cleaner cooking practices and promoting responsible use of natural resources.

His work highlights the growing role entrepreneurs play in supporting environmental conservation, strengthening local economies and advancing Africa’s transition towards more sustainable energy systems.

For Septiya Muhandu, Green Fire is more than a renewable energy company. It represents a vision of a future where economic growth and environmental stewardship reinforce one another.

As demand increases for cleaner energy solutions across Zambia and the wider region, Green Fire aims to continue expanding its contribution to sustainable fuel production and environmental conservation.

Septiya Muhandu’s entrepreneurial journey demonstrates that some of the most effective climate solutions are built on simple but powerful ideas. By turning waste into clean cooking fuel, he is helping protect forests, create value from overlooked resources and contribute to a more sustainable future for Zambia.

Sometimes, the strongest innovations do not begin with creating something new—they begin with seeing existing resources through a different lens.

The post How Septiya Muhandu Is Giving Agricultural Waste a Second Life Through Green Fire appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

برايت فيري يحوّل النفايات إلى طاقة نظيفة في زامبيا

Grace matthew — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:25:27 +0000

Every harvest season leaves behind more than food. Across Zambia, agricultural residues accumulate in fields, often burned or discarded with little thought to their potential. For Bright Phiri, those leftovers represent something entirely different: an opportunity to generate clean energy, reduce environmental waste and build a more sustainable future.

As the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CARABLAZE ENTERPRISE LIMITED, Bright Phiri is developing solutions that convert agricultural waste into renewable energy products. His vision reflects a growing movement across Africa, where entrepreneurs are tackling climate challenges through innovation, proving that environmental responsibility and commercial enterprise can grow side by side.

Rethinking waste through entrepreneurship

For decades, waste management and energy production have largely been treated as separate challenges. Bright Phiri believes they can be addressed together.

Founded to advance sustainable development, CARABLAZE ENTERPRISE LIMITED converts agricultural residues into environmentally friendly energy products that provide cleaner alternatives to traditional fuels.

The business is built on a simple but powerful principle: resources should not be wasted simply because they have reached the end of their original purpose.

By giving agricultural by-products a second life, CARABLAZE contributes to cleaner production, reduced waste and more sustainable resource use. Its work aligns with the growing global movement towards a circular economy, where innovation focuses on maximising value while minimising environmental impact.

For Zambia, where agriculture remains an important pillar of the economy, this approach offers an opportunity to connect environmental stewardship with economic development.

Building a business with climate impact

Environmental entrepreneurship often demands patience.

Developing sustainable products requires balancing commercial viability with environmental responsibility—a challenge that many early-stage businesses must navigate as they grow.

For Bright Phiri, success has never been measured solely by the products CARABLAZE creates. It is equally about demonstrating that climate-conscious businesses can generate economic value while addressing real-world challenges.

Through renewable energy innovation, the company contributes to cleaner energy production while encouraging more efficient use of agricultural resources that might otherwise go unused.

Its model illustrates how local innovation can support national sustainability goals while creating new possibilities for green enterprise.

تسريع وتيرة النمو من خلال مؤسسة توني إلوميلو

In 2024, Bright Phiri joined the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme, becoming part of a pan-African community of entrepreneurs building businesses that respond to some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.

Through the programme, he received US$5,000 in seed capital, practical business training, mentorship and access to the Tony Elumelu Foundation Alumni Network.

For a business operating within the green economy, these resources provide more than financial support. They strengthen leadership, sharpen business strategy and connect entrepreneurs with peers working across industries and geographies.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation’s role is not to define the entrepreneur’s vision, but to help create the conditions in which ambitious ideas have greater opportunities to grow.

Why businesses like CARABLAZE matter

The conversation around climate action is often dominated by governments, global institutions and multinational companies.

Yet many of the practical solutions are emerging from entrepreneurs building businesses close to the communities they serve.

CARABLAZE Enterprise represents this new generation of African innovation businesses that recognise sustainability as both an environmental responsibility and an economic opportunity.

By transforming agricultural waste into renewable energy products, the company demonstrates how entrepreneurship can simultaneously reduce waste, encourage cleaner energy adoption and stimulate local economic activity.

These solutions may begin at community level, but their relevance extends far beyond national borders as countries seek practical pathways towards more sustainable development.

Bright Phiri belongs to a growing generation of founders proving that climate innovation does not always require groundbreaking new technologies. Sometimes, it begins with seeing overlooked resources differently.

For CARABLAZE Enterprise, the future is not simply about producing renewable energy. It is about demonstrating that environmental responsibility and commercial success can reinforce one another.

In a world searching for sustainable solutions, the next breakthrough may not come from creating something entirely new. It may come from recognising the value in what has been there all along.

The post Bright Phiri Is Turning Waste into Clean Energy in Zambia appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

مدرسة «تيمبو كليوباترا» تُحدث ثورة في مجال التعليم في زامبيا

Grace matthew — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 15:14:08 +0000

Tembo Cleopatra believes schools can do far more than deliver lessons. They can nurture character, unlock potential and prepare young people to become future leaders in their communities and beyond.

Through Sante City Academy Limited, she is building an institution that places learning at the centre of long-term social and economic development, demonstrating how entrepreneurship in education can create lasting impact that extends well beyond the classroom.

Why quality education matters

Education plays a central role in strengthening communities, improving economic opportunities and preparing young people for an increasingly competitive global economy.

For many families, schools represent more than places of academic instruction. They are environments where children develop confidence, critical thinking, discipline and the skills needed to navigate an ever-changing world.

Recognising this, Tembo Cleopatra established Sante City Academy with a vision of creating a learning environment that supports both academic excellence and personal growth.

Her approach reflects a broader understanding that investment in education is ultimately an investment in people.

Building Sante City Academy around student success

As the founder and leader of Sante City Academy Limited, Tembo Cleopatra has focused on providing high-quality education that equips learners with the knowledge, values and practical skills required for lifelong success.

The academy is built on the belief that education should nurture the whole child, combining strong academic foundations with personal development and leadership.

By creating a supportive learning environment, the school seeks to prepare students not only for examinations but also for future opportunities in higher education, employment and entrepreneurship.

This commitment has positioned Sante City Academy as part of Zambia’s growing private education sector, where innovative institutions are helping expand educational choice and improve learning outcomes.

Joining the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme

في 2024, Tembo Cleopatra was selected for the برنامج مؤسسة توني إلوميلو لريادة الأعمال, joining thousands of entrepreneurs from across Africa recognised for their potential to drive economic transformation through business.

The programme provides entrepreneurs with business training, mentorship, seed capital and access to a continent-wide entrepreneurial network designed to strengthen sustainable business growth.

For an entrepreneur operating in the education sector, this support offers valuable opportunities to refine business strategy, strengthen institutional capacity and connect with fellow founders addressing diverse challenges across Africa.

By becoming part of the Foundation’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, Cleopatra gained access to resources that complement her vision of expanding educational opportunities while building a resilient and sustainable enterprise.

Education as a catalyst for community development

Schools have a unique ability to influence generations.

Beyond delivering education, institutions like Sante City Academy contribute to stronger communities by creating environments where young people can develop confidence, leadership and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society.

Tembo Cleopatra’s work reflects an understanding that educational entrepreneurship carries responsibilities beyond business performance. Every learner supported today represents future potential for families, communities and the wider economy.

By investing in quality learning experiences, the academy contributes to Zambia’s broader efforts to strengthen human capital and prepare young people for the opportunities and challenges of the future.

As demand grows for innovative education models across Africa, entrepreneurs like Cleopatra are demonstrating how private enterprise can complement national education goals while expanding access to quality learning.

Tembo Cleopatra’s long-term vision for Sante City Academy is rooted in creating an environment where every learner has the opportunity to develop academically, personally and professionally.

As the institution continues to grow, it aims to strengthen its contribution to educational excellence while preparing students to become confident leaders, innovators and responsible citizens.

Her entrepreneurial journey illustrates that education is not simply about teaching today’s curriculum. It is about equipping tomorrow’s generation with the knowledge, resilience and ambition to shape Africa’s future.

The post Tembo Cleopatra Is Transforming Education in Zambia appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

دوميساني نتيني يسهم في النهوض بالحوكمة المؤسسية في أفريقيا

Grace matthew — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:43:56 +0000

لرجل الأعمال البوتسواني دوميساني نتيني, ، أصبح هذا التحدي فرصة لإعادة النظر في الطريقة التي تتعامل بها الشركات الأفريقية مع حوكمة الشركات. من خلال مجموعة الحوكمة العالمية, ، فهو يساعد المؤسسات على إرساء أسس أكثر متانة — مبرهناً على أن الحوكمة الرشيدة ليست حكراً على الشركات متعددة الجنسيات، بل هي أمر ضروري للشركات من جميع الأحجام.

إعادة النظر في نماذج الحوكمة للشركات الأفريقية النامية

غالبًا ما ترتبط حوكمة الشركات بالشركات الكبيرة المدرجة في البورصة، والأطر التنظيمية المعقدة، ومجالس الإدارة الضخمة. وبالنسبة للعديد من المؤسسات الصغيرة والمتوسطة (SMEs)، قد تبدو هذه المسألة بعيدة المنال أو مكلفة أو غير ضرورية.

نتيني يتحدى هذا التصور.

وهو يرى أن الحوكمة يجب أن تكون عملية وسهلة المنال ومصممة لدعم رواد الأعمال أثناء نموهم، بدلاً من أن تصبح مسألة تُؤخذ في الاعتبار فقط بعد وصول الشركات إلى مرحلة النضج.

من خلال ترجمة مبادئ الحوكمة إلى أدوات عمل عملية، يساعد المؤسسات على تحسين عملية اتخاذ القرار، وإدارة المخاطر، وتعزيز المساءلة، وتهيئة الظروف الملائمة لتحقيق النمو على المدى الطويل.

يعكس هذا النهج الاحتياجات المتغيرة للشركات الأفريقية التي تعمل في أسواق تتسم بتنافسية متزايدة وترابط متزايد.

تأسيس مجموعة الحوكمة العالمية

بصفتي المؤسس والرئيس التنفيذي لشركة مجموعة الحوكمة العالمية, ، أنشأ دوميساني نتيني شركة استشارية تركز على مساعدة الشركات على ترسيخ القيادة الأخلاقية وأنظمة الإدارة الفعالة وهياكل الحوكمة المستدامة.

وبدلاً من تقديم حلول موحدة تناسب الجميع، تعمل الشركة على تكييف أطر الحوكمة لتتناسب مع واقع الشركات التي تعمل في الأسواق الأفريقية الناشئة.

ويشمل عملها تقديم الخدمات الاستشارية الاستراتيجية، وتنفيذ ممارسات الحوكمة، وتطوير الكوادر التنفيذية، مما يساعد المؤسسات على التوافق مع المتطلبات التنظيمية مع تعزيز الأنظمة الداخلية التي تدعم النمو المستدام.

بالنسبة لرواد الأعمال الباحثين عن فرص استثمارية أو فرص للتوسع، يمكن لهذه الأسس الإدارية أن تعزز المرونة التشغيلية وتزيد من ثقة المستثمرين.

تسريع وتيرة النمو من خلال مؤسسة توني إلوميلو

في 2021, ، انضم دوميساني نتيني إلى برنامج مؤسسة توني إلوميلو لريادة الأعمال, ، ليصبح بذلك جزءًا من شبكة رواد الأعمال الأفريقية التي تنظمها المؤسسة.

ومن خلال هذا البرنامج، حصل على US$5,000 كرأس مال تأسيسي, ، إلى جانب التدريب في مجال الأعمال، والإرشاد، وإتاحة الوصول إلى منظومة ريادة الأعمال التي تشمل جميع الدول الأفريقية البالغ عددها 54 دولة.

وقد عززت هذه التجربة رؤيته الرامية إلى جعل حوكمة الشركات في متناول الشركات في جميع أنحاء القارة.

وبالإضافة إلى الدعم المالي، ساهمت المشاركة في البرنامج في توسيع فرص التعاون، وتعزيز شبكته الإقليمية، وإعطاء دفعة إضافية لتوسيع نطاق تأثير «مجموعة الحوكمة العالمية».

وقد جاء دعم المؤسسة مكملاً لرسالة «نتيني» المتمثلة في تزويد المؤسسات الأفريقية بأنظمة الحوكمة اللازمة لتحقيق النمو المستدام والمنافسة على الصعيد العالمي.

بناء مؤسسات أقوى من خلال المعرفة

وإدراكاً منها بأن الحوكمة تكون أكثر فعالية عندما تُفهم بدلاً من أن تُفرض، استثمرت «نتيني» بشكل مكثف في التعليم في مجال الأعمال والمشاركة العامة.

تحت قيادته، أطلقت «مجموعة الحوكمة العالمية» #ورشات عمل حول الحوكمة الرشيدة, ، حيث يجمع بين المديرين التنفيذيين وأعضاء مجالس الإدارة ورجال الأعمال لاستكشاف نُهج عملية في مجالات الحوكمة والقيادة والاستدامة التنظيمية.

تشجع هذه الورشات الشركات على النظر إلى الحوكمة ليس مجرد إجراء للامتثال، بل كأصل استراتيجي يعزز المرونة ويحسن الشفافية ويدعم اتخاذ قرارات أفضل.

من خلال تسهيل الوصول إلى المعرفة في مجال الحوكمة، تساهم الشركة في بناء مؤسسات تجارية أكثر قوة في جميع أنحاء بوتسوانا وخارجها.

توجيه الحوار حول حوكمة الشركات

يمتد تأثير دوميساني نتيني إلى ما هو أبعد من مجال الاستشارات.

وهو شخصية مرموقة في الأوساط التجارية في بوتسوانا، ويقدم بانتظام رؤى حول حوكمة الشركات من خلال ظهوره في تلفزيون بوتسوانا (BTV) وـ«له» # ركن حوكمة الشركات مقال نُشر في مجلة بوتسوانا للأعمال الأسبوعية.

ومن خلال هذه المنصات، يواصل الدعوة إلى اعتبار الحوكمة محفزاً لنجاح الأعمال، وجاهزية الاستثمار، والتنمية الاقتصادية المستدامة.

تسهم أعماله في إثراء النقاش الأوسع نطاقاً حول الدور الذي تلعبه الحوكمة في تعزيز القطاع الخاص في أفريقيا وإنشاء شركات قادرة على تحقيق قيمة على المدى الطويل.

يعتقد دوميساني نتيني أن القدرة التنافسية المستقبلية للقارة لا تعتمد فقط على الطموح الريادي، بل تعتمد أيضًا على قوة المؤسسات التي يبنيها رواد الأعمال.

ومن خلال «مجموعة الحوكمة العالمية»، يعمل على ضمان أن تصبح الحوكمة جزءًا لا يتجزأ من نمو الأعمال، بدلاً من أن تكون مجرد مسألة ثانوية.

بالنسبة لرواد الأعمال الذين يسعون إلى بناء مؤسسات مستدامة، لا تقتصر الحوكمة على إدارة المخاطر فحسب، بل تتعلق أيضًا بتهيئة الظروف اللازمة لتحقيق نجاح دائم.

The post Dumisani Ntini Is Advancing Corporate Governance in Africa appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

باكانغ كيميتسوي يسلط الضوء على بوتسوانا من خلال السياحة

Grace matthew — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:45:02 +0000

Bakang Keimetswe is building a business around that idea. Through Afrigetaway (Pty) Ltd, she is creating travel experiences that connect visitors with the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness while supporting the growth of a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.

Her work reflects a growing movement across Africa, where entrepreneurs are redefining tourism by placing local communities and authentic experiences at the heart of travel.

Unlocking Botswana’s tourism potential

Botswana is internationally recognised for destinations such as the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park and the Kalahari Desert. Yet beyond its iconic wildlife lies a wealth of cultural traditions, community experiences and lesser-known destinations that remain underexplored.

For many travellers, accessing these experiences requires local knowledge and carefully curated itineraries. For local tourism businesses, standing out in a competitive global market requires innovation, storytelling and a deep understanding of what modern travellers value.

Recognising these opportunities, Bakang Keimetswe founded Afrigetaway to bridge the gap between Botswana’s rich tourism assets and travellers seeking meaningful, immersive experiences.

Building Afrigetaway around authentic experiences

Established in 2018, Afrigetaway (Pty) Ltd operates within Botswana’s tourism and hospitality sector, specialising in destination management, eco-tourism, cultural tourism and adventure travel.

The company’s approach goes beyond organising trips. It curates journeys that introduce visitors to Botswana’s landscapes, heritage and local communities while encouraging responsible travel practices that respect both people and the environment.

By combining tourism planning with authentic storytelling, Afrigetaway is helping position Botswana as a destination that offers more than wildlife safaris—it offers experiences that create lasting connections between travellers and the places they visit.

As demand grows for sustainable and experience-led tourism, the company is responding to changing traveller expectations while contributing to the country’s evolving tourism economy.

Strengthening the business through the Tony Elumelu Foundation

في 2021, Bakang Keimetswe joined the برنامج مؤسسة توني إلوميلو لريادة الأعمال, gaining access to the support needed to strengthen Afrigetaway during its early stages of growth.

Through the programme, she received US$5,000 كرأس مال تأسيسي, alongside business training, mentorship and access to one of Africa’s largest entrepreneurial networks.

The support helped reinforce the company’s business structure, increase its visibility and provide practical tools for navigating the challenges of growing a tourism enterprise in a rapidly changing market.

Beyond funding, the programme connected Keimetswe with a community of entrepreneurs who continue to demonstrate the value of collaboration, knowledge sharing and innovation across Africa.

Contributing to Botswana’s experience economy

Since participating in the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme, Afrigetaway has continued to strengthen its presence within Botswana’s growing tourism ecosystem.

The company has gradually expanded its focus on eco-tourism, experience-based travel و youth enterprise participation, reflecting broader shifts in how travellers engage with destinations.

Its work contributes to a tourism model that extends economic opportunities beyond traditional hospitality businesses by encouraging greater participation from local communities, guides and cultural experiences.

In doing so, Afrigetaway is helping showcase Botswana through the perspectives of the people who know it best.

This approach demonstrates how entrepreneurial innovation can complement national tourism strategies while creating opportunities for sustainable economic development.

Bakang Keimetswe believes Botswana’s greatest competitive advantage lies in the authenticity of its people, landscapes and traditions. Through Afrigetaway, she continues to build experiences that celebrate those strengths while responding to the evolving expectations of global travellers.

As demand grows for sustainable and culturally immersive travel, the company is well positioned to contribute to Botswana’s reputation as one of Africa’s premier tourism destinations.

Her entrepreneurial journey illustrates that tourism is more than moving people from one place to another. At its best, it builds understanding, creates livelihoods and allows communities to share their stories with the world.

The post Bakang Keimetswe Is Showcasing Botswana Through Tourism appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

مؤسسة توني إيلوميلو تعلن عن اختيار 100 رائد أعمال رواندي للمشاركة في برنامج «أغوكا» لتوليد الأفكار

Grace matthew — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:19:33 +0000

The Tony Elumelu Foundation, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Ministry of Youth and Arts of Rwanda, and the European Union, has welcomed the fourth cohort of the Aguka Ideation Programme, celebrating the selection of 100 young Rwandan entrepreneurs who are set to transform bold ideas into thriving businesses. As the culmination of the programme’s four-year journey, this latest cohort reflects a shared commitment to empowering Rwanda’s next generation of entrepreneurs with the skills, networks and capital needed to drive sustainable economic growth.

Following months of intensive business management training and a competitive national pitching exercise, the entrepreneurs have each been awarded US$3,000 in non-refundable seed capital to launch or strengthen their ventures. Their selection marks another important milestone in the Aguka Ideation Entrepreneurship Programme, an initiative delivered through a partnership between the Tony Elumelu Foundation, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Ministry of Youth and Arts of Rwanda, and the European Union. Together, the partners are committed to equipping Rwanda’s next generation of entrepreneurs with the knowledge, mentorship, networks and financial support needed to build businesses that create lasting economic and social value.

For every entrepreneur who participated in the programme, the journey represents far more than receiving seed capital. It is the culmination of months of learning, refining ideas, testing business models, and demonstrating the resilience required to build an enterprise capable of solving real problems.

In many ways, this is what the Aguka Ideation Entrepreneurship Programme was designed to achieve.

Derived from the Kinyarwanda word “Aguka,” meaning “Arise,” the programme reflects a shared ambition to empower Rwanda’s youth to transform innovative ideas into thriving businesses. While access to finance remains an important barrier for many early-stage entrepreneurs, the programme recognises that sustainable businesses require much more than capital alone. Entrepreneurs are equipped with practical business management skills, expert mentorship, business development support and access to one of Africa’s largest entrepreneurship ecosystems, ensuring they are prepared to navigate the realities of building and growing a successful enterprise.

The newest cohort joins an expanding community of entrepreneurs developing solutions across sectors central to Rwanda’s development ambitions, including agriculture, technology, healthcare, education and renewable energy. These are sectors where innovation has the potential not only to improve lives but also to generate employment, strengthen local value chains and contribute to long-term economic resilience.

Their selection also reflects the programme’s emphasis on investing in entrepreneurs at the earliest stages of their journey. By supporting founders when their businesses are still taking shape, the Aguka Ideation Entrepreneurship Programme helps transform ideas into viable enterprises before traditional sources of financing become available. It is an approach that enables entrepreneurs to build stronger business foundations while increasing their potential for long-term growth.

This philosophy mirrors the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s broader commitment to entrepreneurship as the most sustainable pathway to economic transformation across Africa. Since its establishment, the Foundation has championed the belief that when entrepreneurs receive the right support, they create opportunities not only for themselves but also for their communities through innovation, job creation and inclusive economic growth. Across the continent, entrepreneurs supported by the Foundation have gone on to build businesses that generate employment, strengthen local economies and inspire the next generation of business leaders.

The Aguka Ideation Entrepreneurship Programme demonstrates how strategic partnerships can accelerate this vision. By bringing together the expertise and shared commitment of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, UNDP, the Ministry of Youth and Arts of Rwanda and the European Union, the initiative creates a comprehensive support system that extends well beyond financial assistance. It combines technical knowledge, mentorship, institutional collaboration and entrepreneurial networks to give young founders the confidence and capability to succeed.

This year’s milestone also builds upon a growing legacy.

Before welcoming this latest cohort, the programme had already empowered 300 young Rwandan entrepreneurs, providing US$900,000 in cumulative seed capital alongside business management training, mentorship and entrepreneurial support. With another 100 entrepreneurs now joining the programme, the Aguka initiative continues to demonstrate how sustained investment in young innovators can strengthen Rwanda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem while creating opportunities for future generations.

Behind each selected entrepreneur is a story of ambition, perseverance, and possibility.

Some are developing technologies to solve everyday challenges. Others are reimagining agriculture, improving access to healthcare, creating educational solutions, or advancing clean energy innovations. While their ideas differ, they share a common determination to build businesses that respond to local challenges while contributing to Rwanda’s economic future.

As these entrepreneurs begin the next phase of their journey, they also become part of a wider pan-African network of business founders connected through the Tony Elumelu Foundation. This network provides ongoing opportunities for collaboration, learning and peer exchange, reinforcing the understanding that entrepreneurship flourishes when innovators learn from one another and grow together.

The impact of programmes such as Aguka extends far beyond individual enterprises. Every business launched has the potential to create jobs, stimulate local markets, strengthen supply chains, and encourage further innovation within communities. Every entrepreneur empowered represents another opportunity to build inclusive prosperity from the ground up.

For Rwanda, investing in entrepreneurs is ultimately an investment in the country’s future competitiveness. For Africa, it reinforces a growing recognition that young entrepreneurs are among the continent’s greatest assets, capable of driving innovation, creating employment, and shaping resilient economies.

The 100 entrepreneurs celebrated today are only at the beginning of their journey.

Armed with world-class business training, mentorship, a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem and the confidence that comes from earning the trust of partners who believe in their potential, they now have the opportunity to transform bold ideas into businesses that create lasting impact.

Because when entrepreneurs are equipped with the right tools, they do more than build successful businesses, they create jobs, strengthen communities and help shape a more prosperous future for Rwanda.

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