Novastar Ventures

Sistema.bio designs and manufactures prefabricated modular biodigester systems aimed at enhancing the efficiency and quality of life for small farmers. The company's biodigesters utilize anaerobic bacteria to convert manure from livestock and other organic waste into methane gas and organic fertilizer. This process not only provides farmers with biogas for cooking and heating but also generates mechanical energy for agricultural activities. By transforming waste into valuable resources, Sistema.bio enables farmers to tackle waste management issues while increasing their productivity and sustainability.

BasiGo is an e-mobility start-up focused on transforming public transportation in Kenya and Rwanda by providing electric buses as a cost-effective alternative to diesel. The company employs a pay-as-you-go model, which simplifies the transition for bus operators by including maintenance and battery charging in the financing plan. BasiGo's electric buses are designed to operate throughout the day on a single charge, utilizing proven and safe battery technology. This approach not only addresses the rising costs of diesel fuel but also aims to make electric buses affordable and accessible to all bus owners, thereby promoting sustainable and efficient public transport solutions in the region.

BasiGo is an e-mobility start-up focused on transforming public transportation in Kenya and Rwanda by providing electric buses as a cost-effective alternative to diesel. The company employs a pay-as-you-go model, which simplifies the transition for bus operators by including maintenance and battery charging in the financing plan. BasiGo's electric buses are designed to operate throughout the day on a single charge, utilizing proven and safe battery technology. This approach not only addresses the rising costs of diesel fuel but also aims to make electric buses affordable and accessible to all bus owners, thereby promoting sustainable and efficient public transport solutions in the region.

Moko Home + Living is a Nairobi-based company that specializes in designing and selling a range of home furniture products, including sofas and mattresses. Established in 2014, the company offers various sofa options, such as three, four, and six-seater models, featuring removable covers, velcro and zip fastenings, and convenient side pockets. In addition to sofas, Moko Home + Living provides footstools and emphasizes the durability and modern design of its products, catering to specific consumer needs. Customers can easily place orders through social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, and the company also offers delivery services to ensure that furnishings reach their homes efficiently.

Turaco Inc. is an insurance technology company that specializes in providing health and life insurance services to low-income groups. Established in 2018 and based in Wilmington, Delaware, Turaco utilizes mobile technology to offer simplified insurance products and on-demand health loans. This approach addresses the healthcare financing needs of its customers, enabling them to access affordable medical coverage through manageable monthly premiums. By developing user-friendly mobile applications and online platforms, Turaco aims to enhance access to essential insurance services, particularly in emerging markets.

iProcure Ltd operates a supply chain platform focused on optimizing the agricultural input supply chain in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. Founded in 2012 and based in Nairobi, the company provides a comprehensive solution that combines business intelligence, data-driven stock management, and an efficient procurement and distribution system. Its web and mobile technology enables agriculture retailers to manage ordering, inventory, and point-of-sale operations while analyzing client profiles and purchasing patterns. This platform enhances retailers' ability to predict demand and improve inventory management, ultimately streamlining distribution and enhancing customer service. Additionally, iProcure offers warehousing and storage facilities, ensuring that products reach the end consumer effectively.

Moniepoint is a financial technology company that offers a comprehensive digital banking and payment ecosystem tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. The platform provides a range of services, including payment processing, credit access, and business management tools. Moniepoint enables businesses to create accounts and accept payments through various offline and online channels, facilitating efficient financial management. By integrating banking solutions with essential business tools, Moniepoint supports organizations in managing their finances and accessing the resources necessary for growth.

BasiGo is an e-mobility start-up focused on transforming public transportation in Kenya and Rwanda by providing electric buses as a cost-effective alternative to diesel. The company employs a pay-as-you-go model, which simplifies the transition for bus operators by including maintenance and battery charging in the financing plan. BasiGo's electric buses are designed to operate throughout the day on a single charge, utilizing proven and safe battery technology. This approach not only addresses the rising costs of diesel fuel but also aims to make electric buses affordable and accessible to all bus owners, thereby promoting sustainable and efficient public transport solutions in the region.

Poa Internet Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2015. It specializes in providing low-cost internet services to individuals and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Kibera and Kwangware. The company offers affordable and reliable internet access that is significantly cheaper than traditional network operators. Poa's services are delivered through a Wi-Fi network that covers entire neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with any Wi-Fi-enabled device at any time. Unique to Poa is its transparent pricing model, which includes data bundles without time limitations, as well as free content and online tools such as job boards and marketplaces. By focusing on underserved communities, Poa Internet aims to enhance access to education, trade, and social inclusion while ensuring improved quality of internet connections at accessible prices.

Regen Organics is dedicated to transforming agriculture, cities, and communities through circular economy practices. The company focuses on managing residual organics and specializes in the production of regenerative fertilizers, feeds, and fuels. By promoting climate-resilient agricultural methods and green technologies, Regen Organics aims to foster nurturing soils and thriving ecosystems, ultimately contributing to a sustainable future. With a commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, the company leverages its industry knowledge and international experience to drive meaningful change.

Max is a company that offers motorcycle taxi and transport services, focusing on addressing last-mile delivery and online retail challenges in Africa. By utilizing mobile and web platforms, Max connects consumers, retail businesses, and independent drivers in real-time, effectively removing traditional logistics and technology barriers that have hindered retail growth in the region. Additionally, Max provides subscription services for electric and low-emission vehicles aimed at commercial drivers, promoting financial freedom and wealth creation through vehicle ownership. This technology-enabled platform ensures that independent drivers have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable mobility solutions.

TradeDepot Inc. is a technology-driven distribution platform based in Lagos, Nigeria, founded in 2016. The company aims to revolutionize the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector in Africa by connecting top consumer goods companies directly with retailers. TradeDepot's SaaS platform offers features such as predictive trade intelligence, real-time stock level access, and the ability to place bulk orders online. It also enables the auto-generation of sales promotions, helping to enhance sales and streamline operations. By focusing on improving the distribution of food, beverages, and personal care products, TradeDepot seeks to build the largest retail distribution network in Africa and improve the livelihoods of retail store owners. The company also has an office in Wilmington, Delaware, reflecting its commitment to expanding its reach and impact.

Ignitia provides hyper-local weather updates, via SMS, based on GPS location. Since our commercial launch in 2015, we have established partnerships to work with small-scale farmers. We send daily, monthly and seasonal rain forecasts to help farmers avoid adverse impacts of an ever-changing climate. Unlike other regions, rain in the tropics is produced by small-scale systems where convection is a driving force. These convection forces can appear much more quickly and without seemingly any notice to the untrained eye. Ignitia's technology is specifically designed to predict this kind of weather.

Moniepoint is a financial technology company that offers a comprehensive digital banking and payment ecosystem tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. The platform provides a range of services, including payment processing, credit access, and business management tools. Moniepoint enables businesses to create accounts and accept payments through various offline and online channels, facilitating efficient financial management. By integrating banking solutions with essential business tools, Moniepoint supports organizations in managing their finances and accessing the resources necessary for growth.

Elephant Healthcare Limited, founded in 2018 and based in London, develops a digital health system aimed at revolutionizing global healthcare. The company constructs a global digital health network that links various components of the healthcare ecosystem. Founded by medical professionals, Elephant leverages technological innovations to tackle significant challenges in healthcare, focusing on cost reduction and improving patient outcomes. Its software platform digitizes medical clinics, fostering connectivity and providing tools to enhance primary care. Additionally, the platform utilizes blockchain and decentralized infrastructure to integrate existing services and facilitate the development of new health applications, particularly benefiting hospitals serving low-income populations.

Turaco Inc. is an insurance technology company that specializes in providing health and life insurance services to low-income groups. Established in 2018 and based in Wilmington, Delaware, Turaco utilizes mobile technology to offer simplified insurance products and on-demand health loans. This approach addresses the healthcare financing needs of its customers, enabling them to access affordable medical coverage through manageable monthly premiums. By developing user-friendly mobile applications and online platforms, Turaco aims to enhance access to essential insurance services, particularly in emerging markets.

SureChill is a company that has developed an innovative cooling technology capable of maintaining a consistent temperature of 4ºC for extended periods without the need for power, utilizing the unique properties of water. Launched in 2011, its vaccine refrigerators have surpassed the stringent standards set by the World Health Organization, making them invaluable in the medical market. SureChill's technology is instrumental in vaccine preservation, with significant usage by organizations like UNICEF across 46 countries, thereby contributing to global health by ensuring effective vaccine delivery in developing regions. The company has garnered recognition for its impact on the vaccine cold chain, including a $1.5 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation aimed at enhancing this critical infrastructure.

Komaza is a tech-driven sustainable forestry company revolutionizing the wood industry in Africa with its farmer platform. It combines technology, training, and service to create a new sustainable wood supply for Africa at an 80% cost disruption over traditional plantations. The company was founded in 2006 by Tevis Howard.

SureChill is a company that has developed an innovative cooling technology capable of maintaining a consistent temperature of 4ºC for extended periods without the need for power, utilizing the unique properties of water. Launched in 2011, its vaccine refrigerators have surpassed the stringent standards set by the World Health Organization, making them invaluable in the medical market. SureChill's technology is instrumental in vaccine preservation, with significant usage by organizations like UNICEF across 46 countries, thereby contributing to global health by ensuring effective vaccine delivery in developing regions. The company has garnered recognition for its impact on the vaccine cold chain, including a $1.5 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation aimed at enhancing this critical infrastructure.

Max is a company that offers motorcycle taxi and transport services, focusing on addressing last-mile delivery and online retail challenges in Africa. By utilizing mobile and web platforms, Max connects consumers, retail businesses, and independent drivers in real-time, effectively removing traditional logistics and technology barriers that have hindered retail growth in the region. Additionally, Max provides subscription services for electric and low-emission vehicles aimed at commercial drivers, promoting financial freedom and wealth creation through vehicle ownership. This technology-enabled platform ensures that independent drivers have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable mobility solutions.

iProcure Ltd operates a supply chain platform focused on optimizing the agricultural input supply chain in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. Founded in 2012 and based in Nairobi, the company provides a comprehensive solution that combines business intelligence, data-driven stock management, and an efficient procurement and distribution system. Its web and mobile technology enables agriculture retailers to manage ordering, inventory, and point-of-sale operations while analyzing client profiles and purchasing patterns. This platform enhances retailers' ability to predict demand and improve inventory management, ultimately streamlining distribution and enhancing customer service. Additionally, iProcure offers warehousing and storage facilities, ensuring that products reach the end consumer effectively.

Soko, Inc. is a Kenyan-based company that operates an online platform for handcrafted jewelry and accessories, offering a range of products including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Founded in 2011 and formerly known as SasaAfrica, Soko connects over 2,300 independent artisans across Kenya to the global marketplace through its innovative mobile technology. This approach creates a demand-responsive virtual factory that allows artisans to earn significantly more than the average Kenyan workshop. The company is committed to social impact and economic opportunity, particularly for marginalized communities. With a business model that emphasizes empowerment over displacement, Soko has achieved BCorp certification, which further distinguishes it from competitors and appeals to socially conscious consumers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z.

GreenPath supports and improves the production of food on Partner Farms, growing greater amounts of fruit and vegetables by using organic, bio-diverse, and environmentally sustainable farming practices. Increased fruit and vegetable yields lead to higher incomes, and incentivize farmers to move away from growing less nutritious crops that require increasingly expensive synthetic chemicals and pesticides, that leave harmful side effects on land and human health. With more nutritious foods on their farms, our farmers also eat more healthily at home.

mPharma is a company focused on improving access to affordable medications for patients in emerging markets. Established in 2013 by Gregory Rockson, Daniel Shoukimas, and James Finucane, mPharma collaborates with pharmaceutical manufacturers, health insurance providers, financial institutions, and governments to facilitate the direct delivery of prescription drugs to consumers. The company offers a pharmaceutical data analytics platform that assists pharmacies in managing their inventory effectively, ensuring that essential chronic disease medications are available at sustainable prices. By enabling doctors, patients, and pharmacists to connect with a network of high-quality medicines, mPharma aims to enhance the overall accessibility and affordability of healthcare for underserved populations.

Moko Home + Living is a Nairobi-based company that specializes in designing and selling a range of home furniture products, including sofas and mattresses. Established in 2014, the company offers various sofa options, such as three, four, and six-seater models, featuring removable covers, velcro and zip fastenings, and convenient side pockets. In addition to sofas, Moko Home + Living provides footstools and emphasizes the durability and modern design of its products, catering to specific consumer needs. Customers can easily place orders through social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, and the company also offers delivery services to ensure that furnishings reach their homes efficiently.

Globally, three billion people cook with biomass. The use of open fires and inefficient cookstoves with fuels such as wood, charcoal, and kerosene causes serious environmental and health impacts that disproportionately affect underserved communities. PayGo Energy is a revolutionary cookstove solution and distribution system that enables consumers to access clean and efficient fuel at a price point that is within their daily energy budget.

GreenPath supports and improves the production of food on Partner Farms, growing greater amounts of fruit and vegetables by using organic, bio-diverse, and environmentally sustainable farming practices. Increased fruit and vegetable yields lead to higher incomes, and incentivize farmers to move away from growing less nutritious crops that require increasingly expensive synthetic chemicals and pesticides, that leave harmful side effects on land and human health. With more nutritious foods on their farms, our farmers also eat more healthily at home.

Penda Health Limited operates a network of outpatient medical centers in Kenya, specifically in Umoja and Kitengela, aimed at providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to middle- and low-income families. Established in 2011, the company offers a wide range of services, including general consultations, specialized care, diagnostics, and pharmacy services. Penda Health utilizes advanced technology, such as AI-powered tools, to enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. The organization is recognized for its commitment to patient-centered care and operational efficiency, allowing it to scale effectively while maintaining high service standards. With a focus on community impact and financial sustainability, Penda Health has served millions of patients and is regarded as one of Africa's most trusted healthcare providers.

SolarNow is a company that provides solar energy solutions and financing in East Africa, particularly through its operations in Uganda and Kenya. Founded in 2011 by Willem Nolens and headquartered in Nijmegen, the Netherlands, SolarNow focuses on delivering solar home systems, electrical appliances, and tailored power solutions for rural and urban households, small businesses, farmers, and institutions. The company aims to meet the growing demand for clean and affordable energy by offering high-quality, reliable solar products, along with flexible credit options that enable customers to access these essential services. Through its comprehensive approach, SolarNow addresses the energy needs of various sectors while promoting sustainable energy use in the region.

Komaza is a tech-driven sustainable forestry company revolutionizing the wood industry in Africa with its farmer platform. It combines technology, training, and service to create a new sustainable wood supply for Africa at an 80% cost disruption over traditional plantations. The company was founded in 2006 by Tevis Howard.

iProcure Ltd operates a supply chain platform focused on optimizing the agricultural input supply chain in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. Founded in 2012 and based in Nairobi, the company provides a comprehensive solution that combines business intelligence, data-driven stock management, and an efficient procurement and distribution system. Its web and mobile technology enables agriculture retailers to manage ordering, inventory, and point-of-sale operations while analyzing client profiles and purchasing patterns. This platform enhances retailers' ability to predict demand and improve inventory management, ultimately streamlining distribution and enhancing customer service. Additionally, iProcure offers warehousing and storage facilities, ensuring that products reach the end consumer effectively.

Poa Internet Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2015. It specializes in providing low-cost internet services to individuals and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Kibera and Kwangware. The company offers affordable and reliable internet access that is significantly cheaper than traditional network operators. Poa's services are delivered through a Wi-Fi network that covers entire neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with any Wi-Fi-enabled device at any time. Unique to Poa is its transparent pricing model, which includes data bundles without time limitations, as well as free content and online tools such as job boards and marketplaces. By focusing on underserved communities, Poa Internet aims to enhance access to education, trade, and social inclusion while ensuring improved quality of internet connections at accessible prices.

Globally, three billion people cook with biomass. The use of open fires and inefficient cookstoves with fuels such as wood, charcoal, and kerosene causes serious environmental and health impacts that disproportionately affect underserved communities. PayGo Energy is a revolutionary cookstove solution and distribution system that enables consumers to access clean and efficient fuel at a price point that is within their daily energy budget.

Poa Internet Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2015. It specializes in providing low-cost internet services to individuals and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Kibera and Kwangware. The company offers affordable and reliable internet access that is significantly cheaper than traditional network operators. Poa's services are delivered through a Wi-Fi network that covers entire neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with any Wi-Fi-enabled device at any time. Unique to Poa is its transparent pricing model, which includes data bundles without time limitations, as well as free content and online tools such as job boards and marketplaces. By focusing on underserved communities, Poa Internet aims to enhance access to education, trade, and social inclusion while ensuring improved quality of internet connections at accessible prices.

iProcure Ltd operates a supply chain platform focused on optimizing the agricultural input supply chain in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. Founded in 2012 and based in Nairobi, the company provides a comprehensive solution that combines business intelligence, data-driven stock management, and an efficient procurement and distribution system. Its web and mobile technology enables agriculture retailers to manage ordering, inventory, and point-of-sale operations while analyzing client profiles and purchasing patterns. This platform enhances retailers' ability to predict demand and improve inventory management, ultimately streamlining distribution and enhancing customer service. Additionally, iProcure offers warehousing and storage facilities, ensuring that products reach the end consumer effectively.

Lynk Jobs Limited operates a digital platform that connects informal workers with customers seeking various services, including cleaning, plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, Lynk facilitates the recruitment of professionals by allowing users to describe their project or service needs. The platform queries relevant professionals, provides quotes from verified workers, and manages logistics for the services rendered. Additionally, Lynk offers training courses aimed at personal and professional development, helping workers enhance their skills and improve their employability. By addressing the challenges faced by informal workers and the households and businesses that require their services, Lynk creates a more efficient marketplace for both parties.

Globally, three billion people cook with biomass. The use of open fires and inefficient cookstoves with fuels such as wood, charcoal, and kerosene causes serious environmental and health impacts that disproportionately affect underserved communities. PayGo Energy is a revolutionary cookstove solution and distribution system that enables consumers to access clean and efficient fuel at a price point that is within their daily energy budget.

Sanergy, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing sanitation infrastructure in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya. The company aims to provide accessible and hygienic sanitation facilities by establishing a network of low-cost sanitation centers that include toilets and hot showers. These centers are franchised to local entrepreneurs with support from microfinance institutions. Sanergy also implements a waste collection system, where human waste is safely removed and transported to a central processing facility. At this facility, the waste undergoes anaerobic digestion to produce biogas, which is converted into electricity for sale to the national grid, and organic fertilizers, which are marketed to commercial farms and smallholder farmers. By creating a sustainable sanitation cycle, Sanergy promotes the fundamental right to sanitation and improves living conditions for residents in urban areas lacking sewer infrastructure. The company was founded in 2010 and operates from Atlanta, Georgia.

Regen Organics is dedicated to transforming agriculture, cities, and communities through circular economy practices. The company focuses on managing residual organics and specializes in the production of regenerative fertilizers, feeds, and fuels. By promoting climate-resilient agricultural methods and green technologies, Regen Organics aims to foster nurturing soils and thriving ecosystems, ultimately contributing to a sustainable future. With a commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, the company leverages its industry knowledge and international experience to drive meaningful change.

NewGlobe is a company that partners with national and state governments to develop technology-enabled education systems aimed at improving public education. By offering a comprehensive platform, NewGlobe provides software and adaptive instructional content to enhance learning experiences. Their approach includes training and coaching for educators, as well as support services that facilitate the implementation of digital learning platforms. The company's mission is to transform educational systems and significantly improve learning outcomes, ensuring that every child has access to quality education that fosters their full potential and contributes to overall societal growth and prosperity.

Soko, Inc. is a Kenyan-based company that operates an online platform for handcrafted jewelry and accessories, offering a range of products including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Founded in 2011 and formerly known as SasaAfrica, Soko connects over 2,300 independent artisans across Kenya to the global marketplace through its innovative mobile technology. This approach creates a demand-responsive virtual factory that allows artisans to earn significantly more than the average Kenyan workshop. The company is committed to social impact and economic opportunity, particularly for marginalized communities. With a business model that emphasizes empowerment over displacement, Soko has achieved BCorp certification, which further distinguishes it from competitors and appeals to socially conscious consumers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z.

Poa Internet Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2015. It specializes in providing low-cost internet services to individuals and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Kibera and Kwangware. The company offers affordable and reliable internet access that is significantly cheaper than traditional network operators. Poa's services are delivered through a Wi-Fi network that covers entire neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with any Wi-Fi-enabled device at any time. Unique to Poa is its transparent pricing model, which includes data bundles without time limitations, as well as free content and online tools such as job boards and marketplaces. By focusing on underserved communities, Poa Internet aims to enhance access to education, trade, and social inclusion while ensuring improved quality of internet connections at accessible prices.

Penda Health Limited operates a network of outpatient medical centers in Kenya, specifically in Umoja and Kitengela, aimed at providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to middle- and low-income families. Established in 2011, the company offers a wide range of services, including general consultations, specialized care, diagnostics, and pharmacy services. Penda Health utilizes advanced technology, such as AI-powered tools, to enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. The organization is recognized for its commitment to patient-centered care and operational efficiency, allowing it to scale effectively while maintaining high service standards. With a focus on community impact and financial sustainability, Penda Health has served millions of patients and is regarded as one of Africa's most trusted healthcare providers.

Sanergy, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing sanitation infrastructure in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya. The company aims to provide accessible and hygienic sanitation facilities by establishing a network of low-cost sanitation centers that include toilets and hot showers. These centers are franchised to local entrepreneurs with support from microfinance institutions. Sanergy also implements a waste collection system, where human waste is safely removed and transported to a central processing facility. At this facility, the waste undergoes anaerobic digestion to produce biogas, which is converted into electricity for sale to the national grid, and organic fertilizers, which are marketed to commercial farms and smallholder farmers. By creating a sustainable sanitation cycle, Sanergy promotes the fundamental right to sanitation and improves living conditions for residents in urban areas lacking sewer infrastructure. The company was founded in 2010 and operates from Atlanta, Georgia.

M-Farm connects smallholder African farmers with urban and export markets via SMS and a web-enabled marketplace. M-Farm negotiates with buyers to create demand and assures quality through its network of agents. This motivates smallholder farmers to move beyond subsistence and into cash crops that can feed Africa and the world. Out of 5 million households in Kenya, 4 million are smallholder farmers, representing 24 million people. They lack access to market urban or export markets and thus either are exploited by middlemen or have little motivation to grow cash crops. Farm inputs that might increase crop yield are costly, as they live on less than $2 a day. M-Farm offers value to both suppliers and buyers. The farmers are motivated to grow crops for guaranteed buyers at favorable market prices. M-Farm Agents further elevate product quality and crop yields through training on good agricultural practices and discounts on inputs. Buyers access a new source of supply, primarily organic, to meet growing urban and international demand. They receive high quality produce, supply chain transparency, and pre-negotiated prices that cushion them from price fluctuations.

At Hivisasa, we believe that societies function best when information flows freely among people. This is why we've created Africa’s first crowdsourced news site. Our innovative platform allows you not just to discover untold stories but also to write your own. Born five years ago, Hivisasa now reaches over two million Kenyan readers a month, whose engagement helps support 1,500+ pioneering local writers. And we are just getting started. As a Kenyan company, community is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to fostering understanding, championing accountability and supporting collective action through local news. All Hivisasa editors are local and proud to collaborate with writers from all walks of life to bring you the news you need to stay ahead.

Soko, Inc. is a Kenyan-based company that operates an online platform for handcrafted jewelry and accessories, offering a range of products including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Founded in 2011 and formerly known as SasaAfrica, Soko connects over 2,300 independent artisans across Kenya to the global marketplace through its innovative mobile technology. This approach creates a demand-responsive virtual factory that allows artisans to earn significantly more than the average Kenyan workshop. The company is committed to social impact and economic opportunity, particularly for marginalized communities. With a business model that emphasizes empowerment over displacement, Soko has achieved BCorp certification, which further distinguishes it from competitors and appeals to socially conscious consumers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z.

Komaza is a tech-driven sustainable forestry company revolutionizing the wood industry in Africa with its farmer platform. It combines technology, training, and service to create a new sustainable wood supply for Africa at an 80% cost disruption over traditional plantations. The company was founded in 2006 by Tevis Howard.

Regen Organics is dedicated to transforming agriculture, cities, and communities through circular economy practices. The company focuses on managing residual organics and specializes in the production of regenerative fertilizers, feeds, and fuels. By promoting climate-resilient agricultural methods and green technologies, Regen Organics aims to foster nurturing soils and thriving ecosystems, ultimately contributing to a sustainable future. With a commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, the company leverages its industry knowledge and international experience to drive meaningful change.

SolarNow is a company that provides solar energy solutions and financing in East Africa, particularly through its operations in Uganda and Kenya. Founded in 2011 by Willem Nolens and headquartered in Nijmegen, the Netherlands, SolarNow focuses on delivering solar home systems, electrical appliances, and tailored power solutions for rural and urban households, small businesses, farmers, and institutions. The company aims to meet the growing demand for clean and affordable energy by offering high-quality, reliable solar products, along with flexible credit options that enable customers to access these essential services. Through its comprehensive approach, SolarNow addresses the energy needs of various sectors while promoting sustainable energy use in the region.

Bridge International Academies is an operator of scholastic academy services used to provide education to underprivileged children. Its services provide lessons based on national curricula, develop in-depth teacher training and programs, and use cutting-edge wireless technology that enables underprivileged children to get the right education, free of cost, for a brighter future.

NewGlobe is a company that partners with national and state governments to develop technology-enabled education systems aimed at improving public education. By offering a comprehensive platform, NewGlobe provides software and adaptive instructional content to enhance learning experiences. Their approach includes training and coaching for educators, as well as support services that facilitate the implementation of digital learning platforms. The company's mission is to transform educational systems and significantly improve learning outcomes, ensuring that every child has access to quality education that fosters their full potential and contributes to overall societal growth and prosperity.

M-Farm connects smallholder African farmers with urban and export markets via SMS and a web-enabled marketplace. M-Farm negotiates with buyers to create demand and assures quality through its network of agents. This motivates smallholder farmers to move beyond subsistence and into cash crops that can feed Africa and the world. Out of 5 million households in Kenya, 4 million are smallholder farmers, representing 24 million people. They lack access to market urban or export markets and thus either are exploited by middlemen or have little motivation to grow cash crops. Farm inputs that might increase crop yield are costly, as they live on less than $2 a day. M-Farm offers value to both suppliers and buyers. The farmers are motivated to grow crops for guaranteed buyers at favorable market prices. M-Farm Agents further elevate product quality and crop yields through training on good agricultural practices and discounts on inputs. Buyers access a new source of supply, primarily organic, to meet growing urban and international demand. They receive high quality produce, supply chain transparency, and pre-negotiated prices that cushion them from price fluctuations.

The Paradigm Project is a company based in Ethiopia that manufactures stoves and offers a range of products including cookstoves, water tanks, solar lamps, and water filters. Founded in 2008, the company aims to alleviate poverty through sustainable business practices. Its products are distributed through a network of agents in Ethiopia and Kenya. By providing alternatives to open fire cooking, The Paradigm Project helps reduce deforestation and improve health outcomes, particularly for women who traditionally spend significant time on cooking. The company's mission focuses on using business as a tool for social good, enhancing both environmental sustainability and community welfare.

mPharma is a company focused on improving access to affordable medications for patients in emerging markets. Established in 2013 by Gregory Rockson, Daniel Shoukimas, and James Finucane, mPharma collaborates with pharmaceutical manufacturers, health insurance providers, financial institutions, and governments to facilitate the direct delivery of prescription drugs to consumers. The company offers a pharmaceutical data analytics platform that assists pharmacies in managing their inventory effectively, ensuring that essential chronic disease medications are available at sustainable prices. By enabling doctors, patients, and pharmacists to connect with a network of high-quality medicines, mPharma aims to enhance the overall accessibility and affordability of healthcare for underserved populations.