Denis Opudo
This year startup competition attracted approximately 41 million people online, 600 entrepreneurs from 52 countries and 12000 online platform voters. The ceremony was conducted at the end of last month 2018 in Casablanca. This contest marked Startup.Info second edition which is committed to support innovation in Africa. The initiative in collaborated with Holmarcom Group, OCP, FINANCE INNOVATION, ENGIE, Royal Air Maroc , QWANT, PwC, Labs-NS-Avocats and ecosystem partners.
Kenya’s HydroIQ emerged the startup winner of the year held on 24, January 2018. Kenya’s HydroIQ startup which is a virtual Water Network Operator was founded by Brian Bosire and Victor Shikoli. The company’s core mandate is to ensure intelligence in water distribution and automatic or mobile payment technology.
The Peachwater Consulting, a Nigerian startup launched by Okey Ibekwe Esse triumphed the ENGIE Special Prize Startup award this year.
Côte d’Ivoire’s Graci founded by Brou Kouame Yves Laurent focuses on production of rice in Ivory Coast. The company initiated programs of certification, distribution, production and improved supply of rice inputs.
Madagascar Project Alpha startup which was founded by Muriel Randriamasimanana won in the Community Manager competition. The firm concentrates on video games as well as e-sport events.
South Africa’s Priyo startup launched by Palesa Mahlatji received the PwC – Jury Choice Award. The objective of the company is to train youths from rural, peri-urban and unfurnished schools basic computer application packages. Besides, the firm also provides training in Digital Marketing, ICT, End-user computing, E-Learning and access to online employment opportunities.
France Thea startup was pronounced the winner of Holmarcom Group Special Prize award. Dr. Eloi MONKAM launched medical mobile app with the aim of connecting patients with medical professions for a quick diagnosis.
French Semoa won the Royal Air Maroc-Africa Diaspora Award. Edem Adjamagbo was the founder whose concern was the establishment of e-commerce is Africa through improved terminals payment across the continent.
According to current business report, African Startup winner of the year pockets home cash worth €10,000 and €10,000 Visibility Pack.
