ShEquity

Today, we're proud to spotlight Ecodudu, one of our portfolio companies, co-founded and co-led by Dr. Starlin F. Farrah and Adan M.. Ecodudu, a #circulareconomy pioneer in #Kenya, is revolutionizing the future of #food with insect protein. By harnessing the power of the black soldier fly, Ecodudu recycles organic waste to produce biofertilizer and insect protein, essential for animal and fish feed manufacturers. In the African context, insect protein presents a sustainable solution to pressing environmental challenges. With around 30% of waste in Africa and 38% in Kenya remaining uncollected due to rapid population growth, high disposal costs, and insufficient infrastructure, Ecodudu offers an innovative approach to waste management. By turning waste into valuable resources, Ecodudu not only manages waste effectively but also mimics nature by recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. Ecodudu tackles two critical issues: access to natural proteins and efficient waste management. To date, Ecodudu has processed over 940 metric tons of waste, resulting in the removal of approximately 2,320 tones of CO2 emissions from the atmosphere each month. Additionally, 63% of Ecodudu's workforce is comprised of women, and the Company contributes significantly to SDGs 2, 5, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15. Watch this video to learn more about Ecodudu's impacful work: https://lnkd.in/eQAD9MTv  #CircularEconomy #Agriculture #Sustainability #ClimateAction #WasteManagement #FoodSecurity #SDGs

Why closing #genderfundinggap should be everyone's business!?! This inspiring #TEDtalk by Temie Giwa - Tubosun , the CEO of LifeBank stresses the importance of addressing the funding gap across #Africa. Temie Giwa highlights examples of impactful women-led ventures around the world, and sites Mastercard Foundation’s report indicating that the top 3 countries with the highest number of #femaleentrepreneurs are in Africa: #Uganda, #Botswana and #Ghana. Temie Giwa states: “Data suggests that if you hold any kind of bias against a group, you're most likely to discriminate against the people who most need to be heard. It is these people who often have the solution to the world's most pressing challenges.” Indeed, biases of any kind leads to missing out on unique opportunities! This is why here at ShEquity, we champion #inclusivity and especially #genderinclusivity. Our work is driven by our conviction that closing the gender funding gap will benefit everyone! Follow this link to watch the TED talk: https://lnkd.in/e7Ju4C8C . #genderlensinvesting #smartinveting #genderequality #impactinvesting #Africa

Today, we are celebrating our portfolio company, @Owoafara, trading as Rouzo! Founded and led by 'Tale Alimi, Rouzo is a FinTech company operating in #Nigeria and focusing on providing financing and digital tools to sustainable businesses with a strong focus on SMEs in renewable energy, wellness and agribusiness . Rouzo leverages technology to democratize financial services by focusing on digitizing customers’ operations to allow swift access to needed capital. To date, Rouzo has facilitated nearly 2 Billion Naira in transactions. With its commitment to sustainability, Rouzo has so far impacted more than10,000 lives and SMEs and is working towards empowering over 1,000,000 SMEs in Africa. I. Rouzo contributes to SDGs 1, 5, 8, and 13. In line with its goal of unlocking the potential of SMEs, recently, Rouzo announced the launch of its wellness business boost program. This initiative aims to help businesses operating in #health and #wellness to increase access to the market and finances. Categories include but are not limited to personal care, beauty, health, fitness, food and nutrition. Interested entrepreneurs can submit their applications here: https://bit.ly/rouzoboost Given that women dominate wellness sector, Rouzo’s wellness business boost program will benefit more women-led businesses. So far, 90% of the received applications come from women founders. Reach out if you would like to be introduce to Rouzo Team. #gendersmart #smartinvestment #womenentrepreneurs #womenleaders #womenchangemakers #sustainabledevelopment

CIFOR-ICRAF has recently published a report on strategies to engage men in rural gender equality projects in East Africa. Read more about their publication here: https://lnkd.in/e-K9CF46 The company’s CEO Eliane Ubalijoro sits on ShEquity’s advisory board, and we are grateful for her support and being a great champion for #genderequality. #genderequality #genderequity #inclusivity

Happy #InternationalYouthDay! International Youth Day, celebrated on August 12th each year, is an opportunity to highlight the contributions of young people to society, including young African female and male entrepreneurs.  Young people are the future of #Africa and the world! Africa's #youth make up 77% of the Continent's population and will represent 42% of the world’s youth by 2030. Through our SHEBA program, ShEquity, empowers young female founders with skills set and coaching needed to become investment ready and take their businesses to the next level. #sustainabledevelopment #Africanyouth #youthdevelopment

Today, we are celebrating another one of our portfolio companies, WidEnergy Africa Ltd, a company founded and led by Liliane Munezero Ndabaneze Chabuka and operating in #Zambia. Dedicated to ensuring the last mile distribution of clean, reliable, and affordable energy solutions, what's makes WidEnergy stand out is its focus on inclusivity and transforming lives of people living in hard-to-reach areas, especially women-led households. WidEnergy mission is “to empower women to become the champions and advocates of clean energy, so that African women and girls could have access to clean affordable and sustainable energy for lighting and cooking, and could take advantage of energy access to live better, with positive impact on health, education and household income." The following is just one of the many stories demonstrating the impact WidEnergy is having in Zambia: “Mari Mazyopa, a determined 14-year-old from Matopola village in Chipangali district in the Eastern province of Zambia, balances her daily chores and her role at her family’s local shop with her studies. Using a d.light solar home system which her mother bought on Paygo from WidEnergy, Mari turns the shop into her nighttime study area. This setup allows her to prepare for her Grade 7 exams in a quiet environment, utilizing the sustainable light to focus on her studies after hours. Mari’s aspirations go beyond her personal success; she is driven by a desire to inspire other girls in her community by demonstrating the value of education and perseverance. Her mother’s investment in solar technology not only supports Mari’s educational goals but also opens up many more opportunities for her and her whole family. Mari envisions herself as a future leader and role model, demonstrating that with dedication and the right tools, young girls can overcome challenges and achieve their dreams.” To date, 3,657 female-headed households in rural Zambia have had improved electricity access due to WidEnergy. Moreover, WidEnergy has impacted over 55,000 women directly and over 253,000 women indirectly. Through its work, WidEnergy contributes directly to the following seven #SDGs: #SDG1 (No Poverty); #SDG3 (Good Health and Wellbeing); #SDG4 (Quality Education); #SDG5 (Gender Equality); #SDG6 (Clean Water and Sanitation); #SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and #SDG13 (Climate Action) You can learn more about WidEnergy here and reach out if you would like an introduction to the Team: https://lnkd.in/e9gp__bu #womenentrepreneurs #womenleaders #womenchangemakers #intersectiongenderandclimate #genderlensinvesting #smartinvesting #impactinvesting

Disrupt Africa recent report, "Diversity Dividend: Exploring Gender Equality in the African Tech Ecosystem 2024," delves into the state of gender equality in Africa's tech sector. The report highlights the progress and ongoing challenges in achieving gender balance within the tech ecosystem, emphasizing the crucial role of women in driving innovation and growth across the continent. Check out the link before for more information! https://lnkd.in/eq8vD_ui #genderequality #genderequity #Africantech

Today, we would like to celebrate one of our Portfolio companies, Shuttlers! A prominent #Nigerian company under the leadership of Damilola Olokesusi, Shuttlers has demonstrated an admirable commitment to reducing #carbonemissions and promoting #environmental #sustainability through its innovative bus-sharing platform. By leveraging digital ridesharing technology, Shuttlers has not only addressed mobility challenges but has also significantly contributed to mitigating #Nigeria's carbon footprint. In the past year, Shuttlers facilitated over 5 million trips across 300 routes, leading to substantial reductions in CO2 emissions. The company's efforts resulted in saving approximately 4 million pounds of CO2 emissions, marking an impressive 85% reduction in commuters' carbon footprint. These accomplishments underscore Shuttlers' profound impact on environmental sustainability in Nigeria. By promoting public transport and encouraging eco-friendly practices, Shuttlers has set a commendable example for businesses aiming to integrate climate-friendly approaches into their operations. Shuttlers' dedication to reducing carbon emissions and fostering environmental sustainability is a testament to the positive outcomes that result from integrating eco-friendly approaches into business models. Their achievements highlight the potential for other businesses to follow suit and contribute to sustainable practices, thereby benefiting both the #people and the #planet. Follow this link to learn more about Shuttlers and let us know if you would like an introduction: https://www.shuttlers.co #womenentrepreneurs #sustainability #africanentrepreneurs #mobility #ridesharing

🌟 Today’s the Day! 🌟 Have you registered yet for the AFC First Thursday Virtual Event? It starts at 3 PM WAT! Join us today and listen to our Executive Director, Tenemba Anna Samaké, and Aisata Guiro, Founder of Amai Bliss & Edible Oils. Gain expert insights into the latest trends, success stories, and future directions in the African agrifood sector. This month's theme is "Innovations Shaping the Future of Agrifood in Africa." Discover groundbreaking advancements and transformative technologies driving growth and sustainability in the African agrifood sector through discussions with our experts. 🗓 Date: Today, August 1, 2024 🕒 Time: 3 PM WAT 📍 Venue: Zoom Don't miss this opportunity to connect, share experiences, and be part of a vibrant community dedicated to driving innovation and growth in the African agrifood sector. ➡ Register here: https://shorturl.at/i3Yu8 #MBCAfrica #AFCAfrica #AgrifoodInnovation #AfricanEntrepreneurs

Have you registered yet for the AFC First Thursday Virtual Event? It's happening tomorrow! Join us and listen to our Executive Director, Tenemba Anna Samaké and Aisata Guiro, Founder of Amai Bliss & Edible Oils, for expert insights into the latest trends, success stories, and future directions in the African agrifood sector. This month's event is themed "Innovations Shaping the Future of Agrifood in Africa." Through discussions with our experts, discover groundbreaking advancements and transformative technologies driving growth and sustainability in the African agrifood sector. 🗓 Date: Thursday, August 1, 2024 🕒 Time: 3 PM WAT 📍 Venue: Zoom Don't miss this opportunity to connect, share experiences, and be part of a vibrant community dedicated to driving innovation and growth in the African agrifood sector. ➡ Register here ➡ : https://shorturl.at/i3Yu8 #MBCAfrica #AFCAfrica #AgrifoodInnovation #AfricanEntrepreneurs