Twenty emerging technology entrepreneurs from Africa have embarked on a two-week study tour of South Korea to explore investment opportunities and gain insights into the country’s dynamic tech ecosystem. The delegates, selected from Ghana, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda, are part of a broader initiative led by the African Development Bank Group (AfDB). These entrepreneurs, ranging from agritech to health sectors, were chosen from 133 ventures that participated in AfDB’s Africa Tech Startup Forum.
The tour aims to foster collaboration between Africa and South Korea by exposing participants to South Korea’s thriving tech environment. The itinerary includes visits to prominent institutions such as the Global Startup Centre, LG Science Park, and Unicorn Companies valued over $1 billion. Additionally, the entrepreneurs will take part in events like the K Startup Grand Challenge, an accelerator supported by the South Korean government, and the Africa Innovation Networking Gala.
One notable participant, Uche Ezadinachi of Kenya’s Zuri Health, expressed her excitement about learning from South Korea’s tech advancements and applying these insights to enhance Africa’s tech landscape. David Chen, co-founder of Rwanda’s Kapsule, emphasized the importance of face-to-face interactions and networking with Asian tech companies.
The initiative is financially supported by the Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Trust Fund and aligns with AfDB’s broader strategy to boost youth employment and entrepreneurship across Africa. Martha Phiri, AfDB’s Director of Human Capital, Youth, and Skills Development, highlighted the program’s role in equipping young entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to expand their ventures and create jobs.
The visit is also part of AfDB’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering collaboration between Africa and South Korea in technology and innovation.
