Kenyan startups, BasiGo and Kapu, have been selected to join the prestigious World Economic Forum (WEF) Technology Pioneers Community! This elite program grants them access to a global network of investors, mentors, and resources. Alongside 100 other innovative firms worldwide, including giants like Google and Spotify, they’ll kick off their journey at the WEF Annual Meeting of the New Champions in China later this month.
BasiGo, based in Kenya with operations in Rwanda, is revolutionizing public transport with electric buses sold on a pay-as-you-drive basis. This model makes sustainable transportation affordable for service providers across the region. 🌱 On the other hand, Kapu, a social commerce platform founded by ex-Jumia executives, has been delivering groceries in Nairobi since December 2022 and has plans to expand across the continent.
These two Kenyan firms are among the only four from Africa selected this year. This is a testament to their innovative solutions and potential impact on a global scale. They join Ghana’s Jetstream and Nigeria’s uLesson in this cohort, showcasing Africa’s growing influence in global technology and innovation.
Verena Kuhn, WEF’s head of innovator communities, highlighted the impact of this year’s cohort: “These innovators are leveraging the most advanced technologies to drive radical changes needed to confront the world’s most urgent challenges.” This recognition underscores the potential of BasiGo and Kapu to transform industries worldwide.
Notably, this program does not offer direct financial grants but provides invaluable support such as networking opportunities, technical support, mentorship, and visibility. This will enable BasiGo and Kapu to scale their operations and make a significant impact in their respective sectors.
Kenya has previously seen success with startups in this program, including now-famous names like Google and Airbnb. This opportunity for BasiGo and Kapu marks a significant milestone in their journey towards becoming global leaders in sustainable transport and social commerce. Stay tuned for updates on their journey with WEF!
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