The young disruptors making their mark in African business

Africa, with 70% of its population under 30, is the youngest continent globally, and its growth is mirrored in the ambitions of its young entrepreneurs. From Nigeria to South Africa, a new generation of young disruptors is creating successful businesses and social enterprises. Despite facing obstacles like limited access to finance and poor infrastructure, these young disruptors under 30 are tackling issues such as low agricultural productivity, unreliable healthcare, and more.

Many of these entrepreneurs have firsthand knowledge of the problems they aim to solve. For instance, Asaph Ankunda, who saw his farming family struggle with market access, founded a company that buys directly from smallholder farmers to improve their earnings. Similarly, Samson Alemu turned university research into biological fertilizers to enhance soil health and reduce dependence on costly imported chemicals.

These businesses create jobs and improve livelihoods, demonstrating that success can come from minimal investment, often just personal savings. More recently, there has been a shift in the entrepreneurial landscape across Africa. Decades ago, many of these founders would have found it challenging to access mentorship, training, and networks.

However, today, there exists a supportive infrastructure of mentorship and fellowships that connect these young founders with investors and essential skills to scale their businesses. The stories of these disruptors reflect the diverse solutions they offer, each rooted in their lived experiences. By addressing problems they have witnessed firsthand, these young entrepreneurs are pioneering businesses that aim to enhance quality of life, not just for the present generation but for future ones as well.