Depuis des générations, l'agriculture repose sur l'expérience, l'observation et l'instinct. Aujourd'hui, ces instincts sont renforcés par la technologie.

L'intelligence artificielle, l'imagerie satellite et les plateformes de conseil numériques transforment la manière dont les agriculteurs appréhendent leurs cultures, s'adaptent à l'évolution des conditions météorologiques et prennent des décisions qui ont une incidence directe sur les rendements. Partout en Afrique, ces technologies deviennent des outils puissants pour relever l'un des plus grands défis de l'agriculture : prendre de meilleures décisions avant que les problèmes ne deviennent coûteux.

En tant que cofondateur de eAgro Pvt Ltd, il aide les petits agriculteurs à accéder à des informations pertinentes et fondées sur des données qui leur permettent d'améliorer leur productivité, de renforcer leur résilience face au changement climatique et de rendre l'agriculture plus efficace.

Tafadzwa Chikwereti estime que l'information peut avoir autant de valeur que la pluie

Une récolte réussie dépend souvent de la capacité à prendre la bonne décision au bon moment.

Savoir à quel moment les cultures nécessitent une attention particulière, comprendre l'état des sols ou anticiper l'évolution des conditions météorologiques peut avoir une influence considérable sur les résultats agricoles. Or, de nombreux petits agriculteurs n'ont pas accès aux outils et aux informations nécessaires pour prendre ces décisions en toute confiance.

Conscients de cette lacune, Tafadzwa Chikwereti co-fondé eAgro Pvt Ltd, une entreprise d'agritech qui associe l'intelligence artificielle, la technologie satellitaire et la communication numérique afin de rendre les données agricoles plus accessibles.

Au lieu d'obliger les agriculteurs à investir dans du matériel coûteux ou des logiciels spécialisés, eAgro leur fournit des recommandations pratiques par le biais de canaux familiers tels que WhatsApp et SMS, afin que l'innovation profite à ceux qui en ont le plus besoin.

eAgro rend l'agriculture de précision plus accessible

L'agriculture moderne s'appuie de plus en plus sur les données, mais la technologie ne crée de la valeur que lorsqu'elle est pratique et facile à utiliser.

Grâce à eAgro, les agriculteurs ont accès à des outils de suivi de la santé des cultures, à des analyses du sol et à des recommandations fondées sur les données climatiques qui les aident dans leurs prises de décision au quotidien.

Cette plateforme permet aux agriculteurs d'identifier plus tôt les problèmes potentiels, de s'adapter à l'évolution des conditions environnementales et d'améliorer la gestion de leur exploitation grâce à des informations qui étaient auparavant difficiles à obtenir.

Cette approche s'avère particulièrement utile pour les petits exploitants agricoles, qui sont souvent confrontés à des contraintes en matière de ressources tout en devant faire face à des conditions météorologiques de plus en plus imprévisibles liées au changement climatique.

En associant une technologie de pointe à des canaux de diffusion accessibles, eAgro montre comment l'innovation numérique peut réduire les obstacles à l'accès aux connaissances agricoles et renforcer les moyens de subsistance en milieu rural.

La Fondation Tony Elumelu a contribué à consolider la vision de Tafadzwa Chikwereti

Dans 2024, Tafadzwa Chikwereti a été sélectionné pour le Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, rejoignant ainsi des milliers d'entrepreneurs à travers l'Afrique qui créent des entreprises visant à relever les défis locaux grâce à l'innovation.

Dans le cadre de ce programme, il a reçu US$5 000 en capital d'amorçage, une formation commerciale, un accompagnement et l'accès au réseau entrepreneurial panafricain de la Fondation Tony Elumelu.

Pour une entreprise du secteur agricole axée sur la technologie, ces ressources offrent la possibilité d'affiner sa stratégie commerciale, de renforcer ses activités et d'entrer en contact avec d'autres innovateurs confrontés à des défis de développement similaires à travers le continent.

Ce programme renforce la conviction de la Fondation selon laquelle les entrepreneurs africains sont particulièrement bien placés pour proposer des solutions adaptées aux réalités locales tout en contribuant à une croissance économique durable.

Pourquoi le travail de Tafadzwa Chikwereti est important

L'agriculture reste l'un des principaux secteurs économiques de l'Afrique ; elle emploie des millions de personnes et contribue à la sécurité alimentaire sur l'ensemble du continent.

Aider les agriculteurs à prendre des décisions plus éclairées peut améliorer la productivité, réduire les pertes et renforcer la résilience face aux risques liés au climat.

Grâce à eAgro, Tafadzwa Chikwereti contribue à un avenir où l'accès aux données agricoles ne sera plus limité par la géographie ou les infrastructures.

Son travail met en évidence la manière dont l'innovation numérique peut donner plus d'autonomie aux agriculteurs plutôt que de se substituer aux savoirs agricoles traditionnels, en proposant des solutions concrètes qui améliorent la productivité tout en favorisant la durabilité à long terme.

Alors que le secteur agricole africain poursuit sa transformation numérique, des entrepreneurs comme Tafadzwa Chikwereti contribuent à faire en sorte que la technologie devienne un outil de développement inclusif plutôt qu'un avantage réservé à quelques-uns.

L'avenir de l'agriculture africaine dépendra non seulement de semences plus résistantes ou d'exploitations agricoles plus grandes, mais aussi de meilleures décisions.

Tafadzwa Chikwereti envisage un écosystème agricole dans lequel chaque agriculteur, quel que soit son lieu d'implantation, puisse accéder à des informations fiables permettant d'améliorer la productivité et de renforcer la résilience.

Alors qu'eAgro continue de développer de nouveaux outils numériques et d'étendre son champ d'action, l'entreprise contribue à démontrer que l'innovation dans le domaine agricole ne se mesure pas uniquement à l'aune de la sophistication de la technologie. Elle se mesure à l'aune de l'impact que cette technologie a sur la vie des agriculteurs.

Pour Tafadzwa Chikwereti, l'objectif est clair : veiller à ce que chaque donnée collectée se traduise par de meilleures décisions, des récoltes plus abondantes et des moyens de subsistance plus durables dans toute l'Afrique.

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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 énergie renouvelable 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

Dans 2024, Tawanda Maruza a été sélectionné pour le Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, joining thousands of entrepreneurs from across all 54 African countries working to solve local challenges through business innovation.

Dans le cadre de ce programme, il a reçu US$5 000 en capital d'amorçage, 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.

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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

Dans 2024, Matilde Rungo rejoint le Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, 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 en capital d'amorçage, 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.

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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

Dans 2024, Septiya Muhandu a été sélectionné pour le Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, 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 en capital d'amorçage, 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.

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.

Accelerating growth through the Tony Elumelu Foundation

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.

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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

Dans 2024, Tembo Cleopatra was selected for the Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, 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.

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Rethinking governance for Africa’s growing businesses

Corporate governance is often associated with large listed companies, complex regulatory frameworks and extensive boards of directors. For many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it can appear distant, expensive or unnecessary.

Ntini challenges that perception.

He believes governance should be practical, accessible and designed to support entrepreneurs as they grow rather than becoming a consideration only after businesses reach maturity.

By translating governance principles into practical business tools, he helps organisations improve decision-making, manage risk, strengthen accountability and position themselves for long-term growth.

This approach reflects the evolving needs of African enterprises operating in increasingly competitive and interconnected markets.

Building the Global Governance Group

As the founder and CEO of Global Governance Group, Dumisani Ntini has built a consultancy focused on helping businesses embed ethical leadership, effective management systems and sustainable governance structures.

Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, the company tailors governance frameworks to the realities of businesses operating in emerging African markets.

Its work spans strategic advisory services, governance implementation and executive development, helping organisations navigate regulatory expectations while strengthening internal systems that support sustainable growth.

For entrepreneurs seeking investment or expansion opportunities, these governance foundations can improve operational resilience and increase investor confidence.

Accelerating growth through the Tony Elumelu Foundation

Dans 2021, Dumisani Ntini joined the Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, becoming part of the Foundation’s pan-African network of entrepreneurs.

Dans le cadre de ce programme, il a reçu US$5 000 en capital d'amorçage, alongside business training, mentorship and access to an entrepreneurial ecosystem spanning all 54 African countries.

The experience reinforced his vision of making corporate governance more accessible to businesses across the continent.

Beyond financial support, participation in the programme expanded opportunities for collaboration, strengthened his regional network and provided additional momentum to scale the Global Governance Group’s impact.

The Foundation’s support complemented Ntini’s mission of equipping African enterprises with the governance systems needed to grow sustainably and compete globally.

Building stronger institutions through knowledge

Recognising that governance is most effective when it is understood rather than imposed, Ntini has invested heavily in business education and public engagement.

Under his leadership, the Global Governance Group launched the #GoodGovernanceWorkshops, bringing together executives, board members and entrepreneurs to explore practical approaches to governance, leadership and organisational sustainability.

These workshops encourage businesses to view governance not simply as a compliance exercise but as a strategic asset that strengthens resilience, improves transparency and supports better decision-making.

By making governance knowledge more accessible, the company is helping cultivate stronger business institutions across Botswana and beyond.

Shaping the conversation on corporate governance

Dumisani Ntini’s influence extends beyond consulting.

He is a recognised voice in Botswana’s business community, regularly contributing insights on corporate governance through appearances on Botswana Television (BTV) and his #CorporateGovernanceCorner column published in Botswana Business Weekly.

Through these platforms, he continues to advocate for governance as a catalyst for business success, investment readiness and sustainable economic development.

His work contributes to a broader conversation about the role governance plays in strengthening Africa’s private sector and creating businesses capable of delivering long-term value.

Dumisani Ntini believes the continent’s future competitiveness depends not only on entrepreneurial ambition but also on the strength of the institution’s entrepreneurs build.

Through the Global Governance Group, he is working to ensure that governance becomes an integral part of business growth rather than an afterthought.

For entrepreneurs seeking to build lasting organisations, governance is not simply about managing risk it is about creating the conditions for enduring success.

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

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

Dans 2021, Bakang Keimetswe joined the Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, gaining access to the support needed to strengthen Afrigetaway during its early stages of growth.

Through the programme, she received US$5 000 en capital d'amorçage, 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 et 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.

Her journey demonstrates how entrepreneurs can create value by responding to evolving consumer preferences while helping shape entirely new market segments.

A changing consumer market creates new opportunities

Botswana’s hospitality and events industries have evolved significantly in recent years. Weddings, birthdays, corporate functions and lifestyle events are increasingly characterised by personalised experiences, carefully curated aesthetics and locally inspired brands.

Yet within this growing market, there remained space for businesses offering distinctive food experiences that combined quality, creativity and visual appeal.

Rather than compete in traditional food categories, Ratidzo Murwisi chose to specialise in a niche that had largely been overlooked. Her vision was to build a brand capable of turning handcrafted frozen desserts into memorable centrepieces for modern events.

The result was a business that appeals to consumers looking for something different products that delight guests while reflecting contemporary tastes and lifestyles.

Turning a simple idea into The Popsicle Co

Founded in 2020 dans Gaborone, Botswana, The Popsicle Co operates within the frozen desserts and lifestyle catering sector, producing artisanal popsicles designed for private celebrations, corporate functions and special events.

From the outset, the business positioned itself beyond conventional food retail. Instead, it embraced experience-led catering, where presentation, flavour and customer interaction combine to create memorable occasions.

Its creative branding and carefully defined market positioning have enabled the company to establish itself within Botswana’s growing ecosystem of youth-led food and lifestyle businesses.

By focusing on quality, originality and customer experience, The Popsicle Co illustrates how small businesses can differentiate themselves through innovation rather than scale alone.

Strengthening an entrepreneurial journey through the Tony Elumelu Foundation

Every entrepreneurial journey benefits from access to knowledge, networks and capital.

For Ratidzo Murwisi, that opportunity came in 2021 when she was selected for the Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, the Foundation’s flagship initiative supporting entrepreneurs across Africa.

Through the programme, she received US$5 000 en capital d'amorçage, alongside practical business training, mentorship and access to a pan-African network of entrepreneurs.

While financial support helped strengthen the company’s early-stage development, the programme also provided exposure to entrepreneurial best practices, strategic thinking and a community of founders navigating similar growth challenges.

These resources contributed to building a stronger foundation for a business operating in an increasingly competitive consumer market.

Growing a lifestyle brand in Botswana

Since launching, The Popsicle Co has steadily expanded its presence within Botswana’s events and lifestyle economy.

The company has built its reputation by providing artisanal frozen desserts tailored to a wide variety of occasions, including weddings, birthdays, private celebrations and corporate events.

Its growth reflects changing consumer behaviour, particularly among younger audiences who increasingly value personalised products and visually engaging experiences.

Rather than positioning itself solely as a food business, The Popsicle Co has cultivated a lifestyle brand that combines hospitality, creativity and customer experience.

This approach has allowed the company to establish a distinctive identity within Botswana’s emerging food innovation ecosystem while demonstrating how niche businesses can create meaningful market opportunities.

Supporting entrepreneurs beyond her own business

Ratidzo Murwisi’s contribution extends beyond entrepreneurship.

Dans 2023, she served as a Tony Elumelu Foundation Hub Lead, supporting entrepreneurship activities and helping strengthen innovation networks within Botswana.

The role involved contributing to entrepreneurial engagement, collaboration and ecosystem development, reflecting her commitment to supporting other founders as they navigate the challenges of building sustainable businesses.

By combining entrepreneurship with ecosystem leadership, Murwisi exemplifies the growing number of African founders who are investing not only in their own ventures but also in the wider success of their entrepreneurial communities.

As Botswana’s events industry evolves and demand grows for distinctive lifestyle brands, businesses that combine creativity with quality will be well positioned to thrive.

Through The Popsicle Co, Murwisi is demonstrating that even the simplest ideas can become successful enterprises when shaped by vision, consistency and an understanding of changing consumer expectations.

Her story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is often less about reinventing an industry than about reimagining how people experience it.

The post Ratidzo Murwisi Is Redefining Botswana’s Events Industry appeared first on The Tony Elumelu Foundation.

His journey reflects a broader shift taking place across the continent, where local innovation is creating solutions that respond to local realities while opening new opportunities for economic growth.

Why Angola needed its own digital marketplace

Like many African economies, Angola has witnessed growing internet adoption and increasing demand for online services. However, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have traditionally struggled to establish an online presence due to limited digital infrastructure, fragmented payment systems and high barriers to entry.

For entrepreneurs, this often meant relying on informal sales channels that restricted visibility, customer reach and long-term business growth.

Conscients de cette lacune, Ribeiro Tenguna envisioned a platform that would simplify online commerce for businesses while making digital entrepreneurship more accessible across Angola and, eventually, other Portuguese-speaking African markets.

From an ambitious idea to Kussumba Marketplace

Founded in 2017, the business began life as Makuta Marketplace before evolving into Kussumba Marketplace through a strategic rebrand that reflected its broader vision for regional growth.

Designed as a comprehensive digital marketplace, the platform enables businesses to sell far more than physical products. Vendors can also offer digital products, software, online courses, e-books and professional services, creating multiple pathways for entrepreneurs to generate income online.

By lowering the barriers to digital commerce, Kussumba Marketplace has become an important platform for businesses seeking to modernise their operations and reach customers beyond traditional retail channels.

The company’s model demonstrates how locally built technology can respond directly to market needs while supporting entrepreneurship at scale.

A pivotal moment through the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme

In 2019, Ribeiro Tenguna’s entrepreneurial journey reached an important milestone when he was selected for the Programme d'entrepreneuriat de la Fondation Tony Elumelu, the Foundation’s flagship initiative supporting entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries.

As part of the programme, Tenguna received US$5,000 in non-refundable seed capital, alongside world-class business training, mentorship and access to one of Africa’s largest entrepreneurial networks.

While funding provided valuable early-stage capital, the broader ecosystem proved equally important. Exposure to experienced mentors, practical business education and connections with fellow entrepreneurs helped strengthen the company’s growth strategy during a critical stage of its development.

The Foundation’s support complemented Tenguna’s vision, allowing him to accelerate product development while positioning Kussumba Marketplace for sustainable expansion.

Driving digital entrepreneurship in Angola

Since participating in the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme, Kussumba Marketplace has achieved measurable business growth.

Kussumba Marketplace has:

• Empowered more than 2,300 vendors
• Créée 16 direct jobs
• Generated approximately 24 million Angolan Kwanza in annual revenue

These figures represent more than business success. They reflect increased opportunities for entrepreneurs who now have access to digital tools that enable them to sell products and services online with greater efficiency.

As customer expectations evolve, platforms like Kussumba Marketplace are helping businesses compete in an increasingly digital economy while encouraging wider adoption of e-commerce across Angola.

The company has also expanded beyond traditional marketplace services by exploring integrated financial technology solutions, including Kussumba Pay, an initiative aimed at making digital transactions more seamless for businesses and consumers.

International recognition for local innovation

Innovation often attracts attention beyond national borders, and Kussumba Marketplace has been no exception.

In 2020, the company was selected among Africa’s most promising startups through the Challenge des 1000, an initiative supported by Digital Africa et le French Development Agency (AFD).

The recognition acknowledged the platform’s potential to strengthen digital entrepreneurship, expand economic inclusion and contribute to Africa’s rapidly evolving technology ecosystem.

For Tenguna, it reinforced the idea that locally developed solutions can compete on the continental stage while addressing challenges unique to African markets.

Expanding the vision beyond e-commerce

Entrepreneurs rarely stop with a single idea.

Building on the experience gained through Kussumba Marketplace, Ribeiro Tenguna continues to explore new ways technology can solve pressing social and economic challenges.

In 2024, he launched Alívio, a crowdfunding platform created to support social initiatives, creative projects and entrepreneurial ventures. The platform reflects his belief that innovation should not only enable commerce but also unlock opportunities for communities, creators and emerging businesses.

Together, Kussumba Marketplace and Alívio demonstrate a broader commitment to building digital infrastructure that supports entrepreneurship across multiple sectors.

Ribeiro Tenguna’s vision extends beyond creating an online marketplace. His work is helping shape an ecosystem where businesses can access digital markets, consumers have greater choice and entrepreneurs are equipped with tools to grow sustainably.

As Kussumba Marketplace continues to evolve through new services, digital payment solutions and regional ambitions, its journey highlights what becomes possible when innovation is combined with strategic support, resilience and a deep understanding of local markets.

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