• Afreximbank backs 8 African startups through its innovation program

• Each startup eligible for funding up to $250,000

• Gebeya Inc. selected as Ethiopia’s representative

• Program targets digital innovation, trade facilitation, and industrialization

• Startups selected from multiple African countries after competitive screening

• Funding includes mentorship, market access, and business development support

• Initiative aligns with Afreximbank strategy to support intra-African trade and digital economy

Why it matters?
The funding expands access to capital for African startups and supports Ethiopia’s digital sector through Gebeya’s inclusion, with potential implications for skills, outsourcing, and tech-driven exports.

• M-Pesa Ethiopia and Gebeya Inc launched the “Dala AI Bundle” in Ethiopia.

• The bundle integrates AI-powered digital services with M-Pesa’s mobile money platform.

• Dala AI provides business tools for digital marketing, customer engagement, and analytics.

• The service targets SMEs and digital entrepreneurs using M-Pesa payments.

• The partnership aims to expand digital commerce and AI adoption in Ethiopia.

• Launch supports broader fintech and digital transformation initiatives in the market.

Why it matters?

• Expands AI-enabled services for Ethiopian SMEs.

• Strengthens M-Pesa ecosystem beyond payments into business tools.

• Supports digital economy growth and local tech sector development.