Hi guys, hope you had a fabulous weekend.
It is once again time for the Big 5 Daily, a segment that gives you the latest in African and World Tech.
By all means, dive in with us.
We open with Big News that Flutterwave, a payment processing platform processed transaction worth over $1 Billion Dollars in 2018. They announced in a new year blogpost that they recorded a 401% increase over the 205 million dollars they processed in 2017. It is also worth noting that they recorded a 550% growth in their customer base. Huge numbers, you should read the blogpost.
Moving on, AkzoNobel throws open its doors to applications for the 2019 AkzoNobel Startup Challenge. This is their first challenge under the “Paint the Future” Initiative and they are calling on to Startups, Scaleups, Entrepreneurs and Innovators to submit innovate and disruptive ideas in the Painting and Coating Sector. The Challenge will focus on 5 Key areas which are Smart Application, Enhanced Functionality, Circular Solutions, Life Science Infusion and Predictable Performance. To submit, visit letspaintthefuture.com and register. The deadline is March 1, 2019.
In light of an apparent lack of access to the internet, Kenyan Startup, Hyrac Box launched the Hyrac Box Mobile Server, a device built on Open Source Technology. The Hyrac Box Mobile Server aims to bridge an information gap, providing children in developing countries access to up-to-date resources and content without Internet connection. It lasts up to 15 hours and can be shared among over 25 devices.
We also have great news for the Ecosystem as Oui Capital, a Venture Capital Firm announced its intention to invest a new $10 million fund in ‘fast-growing’ Tech Startups in Africa. Oui Capital will assist financially and also provide mentorship from technology and Industry Experts. Headed by Oluwaseun Oyinsan, they aim to invest in the fintech, mobility, healthcare and education sectors.
And finally, South African Data-based Platform, WhereIsMyTransport recently raised $1.85m in a Series A funding round. Led by Liil Ventures and longtime investor, Goodwell investors– WhereIsMyTransport hopes to funnel this fund into further expansion as it also recently announced its presence in India, South East Asia and Latin America.
Great news all around! With this, we round up the Big 5 Daily. See you tomorrow.