AFRICA SUSTAINABLE FUTURES AWARDS SHORTLIST
Financing Access to Clean Energy
ARC Power solar distribution networks for power grids, Rwanda
ARC Power addresses the lack of energy access across Sub-Saharan Africa by pre-financing and constructing new distribution networks integrated with grid-tied solar generation assets. This approach bypasses financial constraints that have limited infrastructure development and accelerates energy access, in parallel to providing long term national grid stability and an increased clean energy mix. The company constructs and sells these distribution networks to governments under favourable terms, retaining ownership of the solar generation assets to ensure a continuous revenue stream and promote clean energy. In Rwanda, the project is expected to accelerate first-time energy access, reduce carbon emissions, and advance socio-economic development. With plans to replicate this model in Mozambique and Zambia, ARC Power aims to connect more than four million people to renewable energy by 2030.
Kube Energy/CBE Baidoa Solar Power Plant, Somalia
The Baidoa power plant in Somalia, developed by Kube Energy with support from CrossBoundary Energy (CBE), addresses the critical challenges of decarbonizing large energy consumers while simultaneously expanding energy access in a region where over 70 per cent of the population lacks electricity. In a country plagued by high energy costs and unreliable diesel-powered grids, the newly commissioned 2.8MW hybrid solar power plant, paired with a 4.8MWh battery storage system, provides electricity primarily from renewable sources. The total investment, worth $9.3 million, has estimated yearly revenue of $2 mn. The solar plant is projected to reduce energy costs by 50 per cent, prevent 2,800 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year, and progressively meet the city’s growing energy demands—thereby fostering both economic and social development. Moreover, this project, through an innovative financing model, demonstrates the viability of foreign investment in renewable energy in fragile and remote areas. It serves as a blueprint for how private capital and ingenuity can drive sustainable energy solutions in challenging environments.
Nithio climate fintech platform, Kenya, Nigeria & Uganda
Nithio is an AI-enabled energy financing platform designed to increase climate adaptation and resilience finance in underserved and off-grid communities in Sub-Saharan Africa. With only 5 percent of global climate finance directed towards adaptation and resilience, Nithio's blended finance vehicle, FAIR, The Facility for Adaptation, Inclusion, and Resilience, addresses this gap by providing capital to solar home systems, Productive Use Appliance distributors, and microfinance institutions (MFIs). Nithio is powered by its Risk Analytics Engine, which integrates local geospatial, socioeconomic, and demographic data with anonymized customer repayment information and standardizes credit risk using AI. This allows FAIR to provide accessible financing and small-ticket investments to local SME solar companies, ultimately building resilience for last-mile customers across Africa. To date, Nithio FAIR has made 14 investments across Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria. These investments have improved energy access for over 128,979 households, supported more than 16,884 enterprises, and mitigated over 1,488,057 metric tons of CO2e emissions.
Net zerO Africa (NOA) renewable energy aggregator for commercial and industrial companies, South Africa
South Africa, where 79 per cent of electricity is coal-generated, faces severe energy challenges, including an ageing grid, frequent power cuts, and high carbon emissions. There is an urgent need for a transition to greener, more reliable energy. Net zerO Africa (NOA), founded in 2022, is South Africa's first vertically integrated renewable energy platform, supported by $180mn in equity from the investment firm African Infrastructure Investment Managers. The platform aggregates renewable energy from multiple sources and supplies it to a diverse client base, offering flexible power purchase agreements (PPAs). The approach widens access to affordable and reliable renewable energy, reducing the country’s reliance on coal. The company aims to construct 505MW of renewable energy by the end of 2024 and 1,679MW by the end of 2025, with a long-term goal of 5GW by 2030.
Sun King securitisation for "pay-as-you-go" solar business, Kenya
Sun King is a leader in the “pay-as-you-go” (PAYG) off-grid solar energy industry, addressing the critical issue of energy poverty in Africa. Sun King aims to replace polluting, health-damaging, and costly diesel generators and kerosene-based lighting sources with affordable solar solutions, expanding energy access. The model allows customers to pay for energy in instalments, breaking down the upfront cost barrier that can hinder the adoption of solar energy. The company has extended over $1 billion in solar loans to more than 8mn customers since 2017. Recently, Sun King established the first-ever fully local currency and commercial securitisation in Sub-Saharan Africa for renewable energy. The $130 securitisation deal transformed Sun King’s PAYG loans into an investable asset. Through this financing, Sun King plans to improve access to solar in more markets across Africa.
Resilient Infrastructure
Infraconnect road development programme, Kenya
Lot 15 and Lot 18 are two projects by Infraconnect, funded by African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM) under the Kenyan Road Annuity Programme. The projects have upgraded 80km of rural-urban roads to paved standards. The project is a part of Kenya’s aims to modernise its road network by paving 10,000km of road through a public-private partnership programme launched in 2015. Lot 15 and Lot 18, completed in early 2024, include climate-resilient features such as advanced drainage systems to manage extreme flooding. The projects aim to boost economic growth by improving transport links, facilitating trade, and creating local jobs. Lot 15 and Lot 18 have so far generated substantial positive socio-economic outcomes, including job creation and enhanced community facilities. In addition, Infraconnect puts an emphasis on diversity and inclusion in its hiring processes, with initiatives to support female representation and disabled workers in the construction industry.
Lagos Free Zone, Nigeria
Lagos Free Zone is the first 100% privately owned free trade zone in Nigeria, strategically located near Lagos’ Atlantic coast. Spanning 850 hectares, the project faces significant climate challenges, including flooding risks, sea-level rise, and increasing temperatures, all of which complicate infrastructure planning. To address these, LFZ is implementing resilient infrastructure measures such as raising the site's grade level by 4.5 metres above mean sea level, constructing reinforced stormwater drainage systems, and installing systems to protect key facilities. The project also focuses on energy-efficient building designs, reducing carbon footprints, and pursuing EDGE green building certifications. Sustainable water management strategies, including rainwater harvesting and desalination systems, are integrated to mitigate water scarcity and saltwater intrusion. With these climate adaptation strategies, LFZ aims to establish itself as a hub for sustainable industrial development, driving economic growth while prioritizing environmental resilience in Africa.
Nedbank Green Residential Development Bond, South Africa
Nedbank is the first commercial bank in Africa to issue a green bond focusing on green residential housing developments for low- to middle-income customers. Launched in partnership with IFC, the ZAR1.09bn bond includes incentives such as a 4 per cent loan rebate to developers and large-scale training initiatives. The bond aims to address South Africa's housing deficit, rising energy costs, and environmental challenges by promoting sustainable building practices. Nedbank aspires to scale this model across South Africa and beyond, making green homes standard in residential construction through continued financial incentives, enhanced collaboration with various organisations and institutions, and expanded education and training initiatives.
Spiro Pan-African Smart Energy Ecosystem, multi-country
Africa faces significant challenges in urban infrastructure, including adapting to high greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and a lack of accessible clean energy. Spiro’s project addresses these issues by developing resilient electric mobility and renewable energy infrastructure. So far, Spiro has facilitated over nine million battery swaps, reducing emissions and enhancing urban infrastructure across Africa. The company’s comprehensive approach to sustainable urban development integrates measures such as decarbonised transportation, energy efficiency, and recycling. Spiro aims to have millions of electric vehicles on African roads in the next five to 10 years, supported by a robust network of battery swapping stations and smart charging solutions.
Biodiversity and Ecosystems Protection
African Wildlife Foundation biodiversity economies initiative, multi-country
The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) aims to scale investments in nature conservation by partnering with African governments to develop national policies that foster “biodiversity economies.” These economies use wildlife as economic assets, positioning conservation as integral to economic growth in Africa. Currently, many African countries lack comprehensive policies to support biodiversity-based economic activities such as eco-tourism, wildlife research and carbon credits, which remain small-scale and under-represented in national accounts. In collaboration with partners such as the World Bank and United Nations Environment Programme, AWF is pioneering investment frameworks that link business and finance decisions with nature conservation. Countries such as Zimbabwe and Rwanda have already shown interest in developing their biodiversity economies, demonstrating potential for scalability across the continent. AWF aspires to make biodiversity economies a key economic pillar in Africa, driving sustainable development among vulnerable communities.
Enimiro supply chain traceability for farmers, Uganda
Enimiro is advancing sustainable agriculture in Uganda by creating vertically integrated supply chains, directly sourcing raw materials from over 3,400 smallholder farmers across 11 districts. This practice ensures fair prices and produces high-quality, traceable products. The company has obtained Organic, Fairtrade, HACCP, and FSSC certifications to access international markets. Moreover, the company has secure, long-term contracts with large international buyers with similar sustainability goals, securing stable market access for its farmers. Enimiro aims to expand to 8,000 organic and Fairtrade-certified farmers, supporting Ugandan farming communities and driving economic, social and environmental progress.
Preserve Water For Life sustainable water usage programme, Kenya
Preserve Water for Life is a project by Kenya Breweries Limited that addresses the escalating global water crisis by promoting sustainable water usage and reducing wastage. The initiative combines advanced monitoring and data analytics, grassroots community engagement and policy advocacy to maximise water efficiency and foster a culture of conservation among local communities. Since its launch, the initiative has significantly reduced water wastage by an estimated 20 per cent in participating regions and provided reliable water resources to local communities. Moreover, the project has created jobs and has generated annual savings of $2mn across participating communities. The project aims for global expansion, becoming an international benchmark in water conservation.
Wilderness Safaris-Standard Bank wildlife conservation loan, multi-country
Wilderness Safaris is a conservation and hospitality company that promotes sustainable development while protecting natural habitats. The company partnered with Standard bank to create the first nature conservation loan in Africa, a $80mn financing package to support their eco-tourism model and conservation efforts. Wilderness operates 60 safari camps across eight African countries, protecting 6 million acres of land, with a goal to double this to 12 million acres by 2030. The loan will enable Wilderness to expand into new markets, such as Tanzania, and sustain operations in countries like Botswana and Mauritius. The expansion of Wilderness’ conservation areas would further enhance socio-economic growth in underserved African communities, while maintaining its commitment to sustainable development.
Gender Equality and Inclusion
Arise garment training centre, Benin & Togo
The textile industry in many African countries faces two critical challenges: underutilisation of local raw materials and exclusion of vulnerable populations from employment. To address this problem, Arise established the Garment Training Center (GTC) in Benin. It processes raw materials locally, specialising in high-end textile products, with the aim to add value to the local economy. The GTC integrates vocational training, textile production, and socio-economic inclusion, focusing on marginalised groups like women, young people, and people with disabilities. It has trained and employed 1,151 people since 2022, with 55 per cent of beneficiaries being women. The GTC has partnered with international buyers with the aim of scaling its project across Africa and the world, aiming to become a leader in sustainable textile production and inclusive workplace practices.
COFINA "missing middle" finance initiative, multi-country
COFINA was established to bridge the financing gap between microfinance and traditional banking in Francophone Africa, focusing on supporting small and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs, often representing the largest part of the economy. Focusing on flexible products aimed at underserved populations, COFINA has financed over 166,000 projects, contributing to local economic development and job creation. The company prioritises diversity and inclusion, with women making up 45 per cent of its workforce, 33 per cent of senior management, and 38 per cent of its boards. It aims to expand further, particularly in supporting female entrepreneurs having launched Fin’Elle through a partnership with Visa and significant capital raising.
Janngo Capital fund for start-ups and women's job creation, multi-country
Janngo Capital is Africa’s largest gender-equal tech venture capital fund, with 56 per cent of its portfolio companies being female-led as of 2023. With only 11 per cent of private equity and venture capital going to women entrepreneurs globally, and a $42bn funding gap for women entrepreneurs in Africa, Janngo Capital is committed to closing this gap by investing 50 per cent of its proceeds in companies founded by, co-founded by, or benefiting women. The fund has raised €34 million, with plans to expand its portfolio to 20 to 25 companies across Africa, scaling successful business models regionally and continentally, and creating jobs for women and young people.
Ladybird Logistics female driver programme, Ghana
Ladybird Logistics is the first company in the world to employ only women drivers in the traditionally male-dominated trucking industry. Ladybird has trained 50 female drivers, with 32 currently employed with the company and others advancing elsewhere in the trucking sector. The company emphasises the unique strengths women bring to the industry, particularly in transporting hazardous materials. The company's comprehensive 12-week training programme, developed in collaboration with the Ghana Army, equips women with essential driving skills, first aid, safety training, self-defence and fitness. Ladybird also utilises advanced truck technology with safety features and helps drivers take the most efficient route to their destination.
Medplus diversity and inclusion initiative, Nigeria
Medplus, a pioneer in retail pharmacy, recently obtained support from investment group Verod and now operates 125 stores across 21 states, marking a 105 per cent growth since the investment. The company launched a Gender Smart programme in 2023 to enhance workplace diversity and women’s involvement in procurement. The programme, guided by gender consultant Sagana, led to positive outcomes: 56 per cent of the workforce is female, with women holding 79 per cent of senior management positions and 33 per cent of board seats. Medplus also conducts regular training and workshops to combat gender discrimination and sexual harassment in the workplace. The company’s strong brand, extensive store network, and innovative business model position it for further expansion within Nigeria and potentially other African markets.
Digital Infrastructure
Intelsat satellite broadband, Burkina Faso
In Burkina Faso, widespread unrest severely damaged the country’s fibre-based telecommunications infrastructure, disconnecting entire towns and hampering communication and business activities. Working with local partners, Intelsat established satellite-powered connectivity in remote and dangerous areas, restoring communication through a more resilient alternative within weeks. The project was implemented with no upfront costs for the customer and involved a turnkey, scalable solution. Intelsat also offered customer support and consulting, integration, and training services to ensure the network's long-term viability. The successful reconnection of several cities serves as a scalable model for future connectivity projects in remote areas, with aspirations to expand the network further.
Lipa Later payments system with "buy now, pay later" facility, Kenya
Late payments impact up to 100mn micro, small and medium-sized enterprises across Africa, costing $300bn annually. Lipa Group aims to transform the continent’s retail and financial sectors by tackling the problem of late payments through its platform which provides omni-channel automated invoicing and receivables management, as well as a ‘buy now, pay later’ (BNPL) option. Moreover, the platform promotes financial inclusion by facilitating a straightforward bank account setup and providing credit to those without traditional credit histories by using AI and alternative data sources. Lipa’s approach integrates diverse financial services, distinguishing it from traditional banks and BNPL providers. The platform has positively affected over one million consumers and 500,000 merchants and now aims to become a leading digital banking platform across Africa and other emerging markets.
Poa Community Schools connectivity programme, Kenya
In Kenya, 23,300 out of 43,000 schools lack internet access, despite government efforts to bridge the digital divide. Poa’s Community Schools connectivity programme addressed this gap by providing internet to 73 schools with support from UNICEF, Africa50 and Poa’s own initiatives. In 2023, the part of the programme delivered in partnership with the Africa50 infrastructure investment platform upgraded 13 schools with enhanced internet, IT labs and digital literacy training, positively impacting 4,987 students and 180 teachers from underserved backgrounds. The programme emphasises digital literacy, particularly for female students, and has potential for scalability across Kenya and into neighbouring countries. To achieve a broader impact, Poa plans to establish additional strategic partnerships, expand its digital infrastructure, engage local communities, and monitor the programme’s impact.
ZERO13 carbon markets solution, multi-country
ZERO13 is a climate fintech that connects international carbon exchanges, registries and ESG project owners, enabling transparent pricing, real-time settlement and supply verification for carbon credits. Unlike traditional vertically siloed systems, ZERO13 employs a blockchain-enabled distributed model that streamlines workflows and eliminates inefficiencies. This approach aims to make carbon projects more viable and trustworthy, create jobs, increase incomes, and boost GDP in developing nations, with an initial major focus on Africa. ZERO13 aims to become a leading carbon trading platform across the globe. Its goal is to facilitate the largest number of global carbon credit transactions within the next 5 years, setting new standards for carbon trading and expanding its impact.
Innovation Showcase Shortlist
Bridges to Prosperity - Africa’s unmapped rivers, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Uganda & Zambia
Nearly a billion people are unable to access basic services because of physical obstacles such as impassable rivers and unmaintained roads. Bridges to Prosperity works alongside rural communities, governments and other stakeholders to identify the most pressing accessibility needs and create the conditions to scale investments in infrastructure. This is done via the Fika Map, a dynamic machine learning tool developed in collaboration with Better Planet Laboratory at the University of Boulder, Colorado, that predicts the location of unmapped waterways, and the most impactful infrastructure solutions to create access to critical destinations in rural low-income communities. Stakeholders can act on these findings to improve the livelihoods and well-being of communities while reducing extreme poverty. Bridges to Prosperity has built more than 600 trail bridges, serving 3 million people across 21 countries via their portfolio of construction, engineering, evidence-based advocacy, advisory, and technical assistance services that complement Fika Map’s data.
Kofa Kore 2 Battery Network, Ghana
African urban areas face challenges with greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, unreliable power supply and inefficient transportation. Such issues disproportionately affect low-income communities. Kofa has developed an innovative, scalable and inclusive business model that integrates electric motorcycle battery swapping technology with back-up power solutions fueled by renewable energy. Kofa focuses on urban communities and aims to ensure flexibility and affordability, on the back of low adoption costs. In its first year of operation, Kofa facilitated 27,288 battery swaps across 8 swapping stations, offsetting 38 tonnes of CO2 emissions and displacing 25,000 liters of petrol with just 36 bikes. Currently, in our second year, we are on track to achieve 75,000 swaps at the end of the second year of operation — further amplifying our impact on sustainable urban mobility and energy.
Liquid Intelligent Technologies African schools connectivity initiative, multi-country
Access to high speed and reliable connectivity remains a barrier to advancing digitally supported education across Africa. In a continent where 60 per cent of the population is below the age of 25, it is critical to invest in their future and support their education. Connecting schools to the internet provides learners the opportunity to use a variety of innovative tools in the teaching and learning process. It also allows schools to serve as a focal point for neighboring communities, fueling economic growth and development. Liquid is doing this through their Map, Connect, and Empower project, mapping and leveraging their proprietary 110,000+ kms of fiber network to school locations. Liquid’s vision of a digitally connected future that leaves no African behind is being developed in partnership with stakeholders such as UNICEF and the International Technology Union (ITU) Giga Project. Liquid has already mapped 110,000 schools across 12 African countries and connected 4,300 across 9 countries.