Tech in Africa
The UNWTO SDGs Global Startup Competition recognizes top startups across the world for their sustainable contributions to responsible tourism. The competition was to be held by the United Nations Innovation Network, which initially attracted over 10,000 proposals. Of participants from 18 countries, 25 emerged as the winners, showcasing the best in tourism talent of what every region has on offer. Africa and the Middle East had recorded one winner each.
The category of Zero Hunger, SDG 2, was clinched by ifarm360 from Kenya while SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities went to Tobadaa from Egypt. Of the 25 winners, 9 were from the Americas, six from the Asia-Pacific, eight from Europe, and two from Africa and the Middle East.
ifarm360 was launched in May 2020 by Milka Owuor, Dr. Astrid Knoblauch, Derrick Gakuu, and Fredrick Juma, as a digital crowd farming platform that brings together investors, farmers, and markets to the advantage of the farmer. The platform gives users the opportunity to invest in farming and a guaranteed return of investment while enhancing food security.
Tobadaa connects travelers with on-demand services for tours and other activities, connecting travelers to tour guides and locals can use their own cars to book tours and share experiences while making money.
Winners will receive expert support to grow their businesses through mentorship programmes such as IE University, Amadeus, FarCo, Google, and other mentorship sessions from ClarkeModet and MasterCard.
