Solutions (533)
To assist victims of violence, especially women and children, an NGO has developed a mobile application with a range of tools to combat this issue.
Zonza/Loba, a mobile application launched on Tuesday, November 25, 2024, by the Congolese NGO Azur Développement, aims to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Available in French, Lingala, and Kituba, the app is designed to raise awareness about the various forms, manifestations, and consequences of gender-based violence.
“This initiative directly addresses the numerous requests for support we receive from women and girls who have survived violence. These requests often come through our one-stop assistance centers run by Azur Développement, primarily via email. We also consistently receive requests to organize awareness campaigns to prevent violence against women and children,” explained Sylvie Niombo, Director of Azur Développement.
The app, available exclusively on Android, offers several sections that provide information on gender-based violence, available resources, and guidance on how to respond in such cases. It helps users understand the necessary steps to take in response to violence and directs them to appropriate support services, such as one-stop assistance centers for women and children. In dangerous situations, Zonza/Loba includes an alert feature that allows users to quickly notify the police or their loved ones.
“The app also allows users to call the police or send predefined alert messages to close contacts. Additionally, it can be used to reach the one-stop assistance centers to request support for victims of violence or to report cases of violence against women and children,” added Sylvie Niombo.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Designed by two tech entrepreneurs, the tailored solution aims to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa embrace the digital revolution. Since its launch, Leja claims its platform is used by over 1.4 million businesses.
Leja is a fintech solution that helps micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) digitize their management processes. It simplifies the shift from paper-based records to digital systems while promoting the adoption of financial services. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, the startup was founded in 2018 by Tekwane Mwendwa and Morgane Kablan.
"We’re proud to address the challenges MSMEs face, including limited access to affordable payment options and working capital financing. Many MSMEs previously relied on costly and inconvenient methods like cash, which impacted their operations," explains Tekwane Mwendwa.
Leja offers automated record-keeping, 360-degree payment solutions, and loans among its services. "We plan to expand our reach from 5% to 20% by partnering with financial institutions and NGOs to close the credit gap for MSMEs," he adds.
The platform also supports monetary transactions between users. Currently, only 10% of users utilize this function, but the fintech aims to increase this figure to 50%, unlocking significant transaction volumes and revenue potential in the process.
Leja operates exclusively through an Android mobile application. To access its services, a company representative must create an account by providing essential information such as their phone number, full name, national ID number, and email address.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Launched by five Zimbabwean tech entrepreneurs, the service streamlines bus ticket booking for users. The concept came to one of the founders while he was conducting business at a bus station.
Founded in 2017 by Vusumuzi Mkhwananzi, Josiah Mahachi, Millcent Mkhwananzi, Gift Chirinda, and Mandla Ncube, myRunner is a Zimbabwean tech startup with a mission to improve road transport services across Africa. Through its all-in-one web and mobile platforms, the company offers online ticket booking and real-time bus tracking. It also streamlines fleet management for transport companies.
"I grew up selling sweets and freezits in bus station [...] Everyday I saw challenges faced by passengers and bus operators ,passngers harrassed by touts , waiting long hours for buses and bus companies lossing a lot of revenue due to ineffective ticketing and bus managemet systems that where largely manual," explains Vusumuzi Mkhwananzi.
With myRunner, several processes are simplified. Registered travelers, for instance, can purchase tickets online from their chosen bus operator using various digital payment options. They can make selections based on their destination, travel date, and departure time, among other criteria.
Active in several African countries, including Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, the startup aims to revolutionize intercity transport in Africa by combining innovation and accessibility. It seeks to accelerate its growth by further developing its features to meet the growing demands of the market.
In July 2024, myRunner was selected alongside 41 other African startups to join the inaugural Timbuktoo Fintech Hub cohort. This initiative, launched by African nations in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to support the development of Africa’s tech ecosystem.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Éditing by Feriol Bewa
To help companies find talent in African countries and their diasporas, and to assist job seekers in securing employment, Senegalese tech entrepreneur Kémo Touré has developed a tailored solution.
Wutiko is a web platform that helps Africans, including those in the diaspora, discover the best opportunities for jobs, funding, and events. It was developed by Kémo Touré’s agency, Wutiko Senegal SAS, which operates out of Dakar, as well as Lagos (Nigeria) and Ébène (Mauritius).
The digital solution uses artificial intelligence to match relevant profiles to specific search criteria. Users can apply for temporary opportunities or recruit job seekers. The platform also offers a range of services, including classified ad management, collaboration tools, and performance measurement solutions.
One notable feature is the Wutiko Wealth Index, which evaluates interactions within the platform's community. This initiative aims to address the needs of Africa’s job market while ensuring access to resources tailored to local and regional specificities.
“Wutiko is a platform designed to meet the needs of the job market in Senegal, Africa, and within the diaspora. Instead of carrying around a paper CV or reaching out to unverified companies, young people can enhance their visibility by creating a profile that will be seen by all companies on the platform. Likewise, businesses can recruit using well-structured, certified CVs,” explains Kémo Touré.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
To help people select the insurance policies that best suit their needs, Egyptian tech entrepreneurs have developed a comparison platform.
Amanleek is an online platform for comparing insurance offers, particularly in the automotive and health sectors. This digital solution was developed by an Egyptian startup based in Cairo, founded in 2019 by Ahmad Baracat, Ihab El Sokary, Mohab Aboueita, and Mohamed Mansour.
The startup collaborates with 18 insurance companies operating in Egypt. Its algorithm compares available offers to identify the best options. It has also integrated data and AI-driven insurance solutions to optimize its services according to users' needs. By digitizing the process of purchasing insurance policies and enabling the submission of required documents online, Amanleek has reduced the time needed from several weeks to just a few minutes.
Amanleek has established strategic partnerships with various companies, including players in telecommunications, Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services, and payment networks, to facilitate financial transactions on its platform. Operating in over 20 governorates across Egypt, the platform claims more than 300 corporate clients. In July 2024, Amanleek was selected for the inaugural cohort of the Timbuktoo Fintech Hub.
The platform offers a mobile app available on iOS and Android. Users can create an account by entering their personal information and then providing the necessary details to allow the algorithm to suggest the best offers tailored to their needs.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
To help children and teenagers better understand various school concepts, a tech entrepreneur has launched an online learning platform that is revolutionizing education through innovative content.
Sikul, an online learning platform developed by a Gabonese startup, offers educational and entertaining content for children and teenagers. Founded by Lynda Hernandez Moibouey in September 2020, Sikul aims to make learning engaging and accessible.
Currently, Sikul is accessed through a web browser. Users create accounts with personal information to explore the platform's offerings, which include videos and digital books often developed in collaboration with educators.
The platform covers a range of subjects, including grammar, mathematics, conjugation, spelling, vocabulary, English, and local languages. "We teach children while entertaining them, helping them develop essential skills to become well-rounded adults," said Moibouey. "Our offerings include video DVDs like 'Ma maternelle en poche' (volume 1), 'Mon premier syllabaire' (volumes 1 and 2), 'L'écriture des mots,' 'Je sais conjuguer,' and a special word search DVD."
Regarding digital books, Moibouey highlighted titles such as "Mon super alphabet illustré," "L'abécédaire des animaux," "L'abécédaire des fruits et des légumes," and "Animal Alphabet."
Sikul currently boasts 161 active accounts, 77 videos, and 30 educational games. Access requires a subscription, starting at 7,000 CFA francs (approximately $11.20) per month for one parent and one child. A three-month subscription for one parent and two children costs 15,000 CFA francs, while an annual subscription for two parents and five children is 48,000 CFA francs
Adoni Conrad Quenum
To simplify financial and commercial transactions for the Gambian population, a tech entrepreneur has taken the initiative to digitize several financial services by developing a tailor-made solution.
Waychit is a digital solution developed by a Gambian startup to revolutionize financial transactions in the country. The app allows users to pay for fuel, airtime, mobile data, purchases at merchants, internet bills, and insurance—all through its mobile platform. Founded in 2022 by Hassan Y. Jallow, the start-up operates out of Brufut, offering convenience and innovation to individuals and businesses alike.
The mobile app is available on both iOS and Android and has already been downloaded over a thousand times, according to Google Play Store data. After downloading the app, users can create an account by entering their personal details. They are then granted access to all the services provided by the fintech, including a digital wallet that can be topped up to make online purchases at affiliated shops.
Waychit also offers tailored services for businesses. For instance, companies can use its digital fuel vouchers, enabling employees to refuel at partner gas stations hassle-free—an efficient alternative to physical vouchers that can be misplaced or forgotten.
"Waychit is a payment aggregator in The Gambia offering customized payment solutions for businesses. Our goal is to make payments easy and convenient, whether it’s paying, getting paid, or shopping," the start-up explains.
In July 2024, Waychit was selected as part of the inaugural cohort of the Timbuktoo Fintech Hub, a project supported by African nations and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It joined 41 other African fintechs in this initiative aimed at fostering innovation across the continent.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
To help young Moroccans, both graduates and non-graduates, find employment, a tech entrepreneur has developed a tailored solution.
JobUp, a digital solution developed by a Moroccan startup, allows users to easily find service providers for everyday needs across the country.
Founded in 2020 by Mohamed Ennamli, JobUp was born out of the challenges faced by young graduates entering the job market during the COVID-19 pandemic. "JobUp is a career accelerator for young graduates seeking to enter the job market," Ennamli said. "With the lockdown and its impact on the job market, the application became a necessity, as it serves all job seekers and improves their financial situation."
The solution includes a mobile application available on both iOS and Android, which has been downloaded more than 100,000 times, according to Play Store data. Users create an account and set up their profiles within the app. Service seekers post ads with detailed descriptions of their needs, while interested providers apply. Users then select the provider that best suits their needs and budget, scheduling the service at the agreed-upon location, date, and price.
Service providers also create detailed profiles within the app, showcasing their expertise and services offered. The platform connects users with a wide range of professionals, including hairdressers, cooks, plumbers, masons, and housekeepers.
Since its launch, JobUp has attracted more than 10,000 profiles and over 15,000 users across more than 20 cities throughout Morocco.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
To help Algerian businesses easily apply for tenders within the country, a tech entrepreneur has developed a tailored solution.
Rhinotenders, a digital solution developed by an Algerian startup, helps companies find the best suppliers to respond to their tenders.
Founded in 2016 by Saïd Hamdani, the Algiers-based startup offers a mobile application available exclusively on Android, which has been downloaded more than 5,000 times, according to Play Store data.
Suppliers register on the platform by providing the required information. They can then discover various opportunities that match their profiles and receive notifications (via email and the app) whenever a new opportunity is posted.
Rhinotenders enables users to submit bids and quotes online with supporting documents, track projects and preferred companies, view buyer profiles with their project histories to improve commercial prospecting, and access a complete daily list of tenders in Algeria (without category restrictions) with advanced search features.
For companies, the process involves creating an announcement on the platform with all the required details, allowing Rhinotenders to identify suitable suppliers. Once this step is complete, suppliers submit their bids, and the company, through its dashboard on the app or web platform, selects the one that best meets its requirements.
The startup not only publishes tenders directly on the platform but also shares information about tenders available on the websites of public and private institutions, buyers, national and regional press, specialized publications, and official bulletins.
Since its launch, Rhinotenders claims to have 40,000 users and has published over 350,000 tenders.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
The solution aims to revolutionize the insurance sector in Africa. In 2022, it raised $1.5 million in pre-seed funding to develop its technology and support growth across the continent.
ETAP is a digital solution developed by a Nigerian startup, enabling users to purchase insurance policies in 90 seconds, file claims, process completed claims in just 3 minutes, and receive payouts quickly with a few clicks. Based in Lagos, the startup was founded in 2022 by Ibraheem Babalola.
Shortly after its launch, ETAP successfully raised $1.5 million in a funding round. The funds were used to develop its mobile application and support its growth. In a press release on Thursday, October 30, ETAP announced its expansion into Ghana through a partnership with the local subsidiary of South African insurer Hollard Insurance.
The mobile app is available on iOS and Android, with over 5,000 downloads on the Play Store, according to platform statistics. After downloading the app, users create an account to access the startup's services. ETAP offers both annual and short-term insurance coverage, ranging from one day to 28 days. Through the app, users can manage their insurance policies, renew them, and view their claims history.
The insurtech also rewards safe driving behavior with points for drivers who avoid accidents. These points can be redeemed for vouchers, fuel, movie tickets, concert access, and other attractive rewards at retail outlets. "You can accumulate these points to earn rewards at over 500 stores or compete with your friends and colleagues on the ETAP leaderboard," the startup explains.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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In an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion, two tech entrepreneurs have developed a tailored solution to streamline urban and intercity travel.
Enakl, a digital platform developed by a Moroccan startup, connects travelers heading to the same destination with semi-collective transport providers, such as minibuses. The initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions. Founded in 2022 by Samir Bennani and Charles Pommarede, the Casablanca-based company also operates an office in Paris.
On Tuesday, December 3, the startup announced it had successfully raised $1.4 million in a funding round. The funding will be used to develop intelligent collective transport solutions for daily commutes within and beyond Morocco.
“This funding allows us to deepen our impact in Casablanca, expand our reach, and accelerate the development of our technology, leveraging AI to optimize routes, enhance commuter experiences, and drive sustainable urban mobility solutions,” the co-founders told Disrupt Africa.
Enakl offers a mobile app, available on iOS and Android, which has already been downloaded over 1,000 times, according to Play Store data. After downloading, users create an account by providing their personal details. They can then plan a ride or trip in just a few clicks by entering their starting point, destination, and desired arrival time.
Based on this information, Enakl suggests the best option for a seamless journey. Users receive details about their transportation—typically a minibus—including the time and pickup point, located within walking distance of their specified location.
Currently managing more than 15,000 reservations per month, Enakl plans to expand into other Moroccan cities before venturing into additional markets across the African continent.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The concept for the startup was conceived during the lockdown period. Three tech entrepreneurs, who were childhood friends, subsequently transformed this idea into a fully operational company.
Jobop is a digital solution developed by a Moroccan startup that enables companies to recruit temporary workers via its web platform. Based in Casablanca, the startup was founded in 2021 by Salim El Merrassi, Adil Zghaoui, and Mehdi Berrahou. In April 2022, it raised 10 million dirhams (approximately $1 million) to fuel its growth across the continent.
The platform operates exclusively through a web browser, with no mobile app currently available. Job seekers can register on the platform and complete their CVs in just three simple steps. "They are then contacted for an individual interview. Once the interview is validated, our platform suggests the most suitable temporary assignments for their profiles," explains co-founder Adil Zghaoui.
According to data published on the platform, Jobop is 30% cheaper than traditional temp agencies and can identify suitable candidates within an average of three hours. The startup gained traction in the post-COVID-19 period as more companies turned to temporary staffing for greater flexibility and responsiveness to market shifts.
"The challenge with temporary work is the lack of training for workers. Ultimately, we aim to establish sector-specific training schools to help workers secure permanent roles within companies and transition out of precarious employment," says Zghaoui.
Jobop also has ambitious plans for expansion across the continent. Beyond North Africa, it is eyeing cities such as Johannesburg in South Africa, Lagos in Nigeria, and Nairobi in Kenya as key targets for growth.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The agency has launched a tailored solution to help young people seize professional opportunities.
Malagasy social organization Syndicat des Industries de Madagascar (SIM) unveiled, last week, Pôle Stage, a platform designed to connect young Malagasy graduates with internship opportunities.
"This initiative embodies SIM’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and employment," explained SIM President Tiana Rasamimanana during the launch.
Accessible via web browsers, Pôle Stage requires users to create an account to get started. They can either log in with existing credentials or register by filling out the required information and uploading a PDF version of their CV. Once their account is activated, users can browse for internships that match their field of study.
The platform offers advanced search filters, allowing users to narrow down opportunities by city, sector, or company. When an appealing offer is found, users simply click "Apply Now". They receive an email notification when a company downloads their CV from the platform's dashboard, with the subsequent steps handled directly between the candidate and the company.
To further support young professionals, SIM provides Pôle Stage training programs. Participants can upload certificates from these courses to their profiles to boost their chances of securing internships. Additionally, the platform features a blog offering practical tips and advice on topics like crafting compelling CVs and cover letters, acing job interviews, and navigating workplace dynamics.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Developped by two tech entrepreneurs, the solution aims to help hospitals secure blood supplies more efficiently.
Wala Digital Health, a Ghanaian e-health startup, is streamlining how hospitals and blood banks order, receive, and manage blood supplies. Founded in 2019 by Dennis Addo and Kanyisola Oyeyinka, the company operates from Accra, Ghana, and Cambridge, USA, combining local impact with global innovation.
“We harness the power of social networks to boost blood product availability and leverage innovative digital solutions for processing, sharing, and delivery, combating the fatal consequences of blood shortages,” the platform explains.
The solution features a mobile app, available on iOS and Android, enabling blood donors to connect with the platform and schedule donations. Through extensive use of digital channels, including social media, Wala Digital Health has built a donor community of around 1,000 members. Donors earn digital tokens after each contribution, which can be redeemed for medical services.
Blood donations are processed and made available within 24 to 48 hours. “Whole blood is separated into components (red blood cells, platelets, and plasma). Red blood cells can be stored for up to 42 days, plasma can be frozen and kept for 12 months, while platelets must be used within five days,” the platform notes.
Hospitals and blood banks can easily access these products through the app to meet their supply needs. In recognition of its innovative approach, Wala Digital Health was among 36 start-ups selected for the regional rounds of the MEST Africa Challenge in 2022.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji