Africa is home to some of the most innovative and inspiring inventions and ideas the world has ever seen. From mobile banking apps to revolutionary renewable energy solutions, African innovators are leading the way in creating a better future for the continent and beyond.
In this blog post, we will explore 5 Earthshaking Innovations from Africa and how they are changing the world as we know it.
1. M-Pesa
M-pesa is one of the 5 Earthshaking Innovations from Africa that have revolutionize how people transfer money across the continent.
It was launched by Safaricom and Vodafone in Kenya and Tanzania, respectively in 2007.
It’s a mobile money transfer service that allows users to send and receive money through their phones without having access to traditional bank accounts
This Service has since expanded into other countries.
Additionally, M-Pesa provides digital financial services like savings, loans, payments, investments, insurance, and even payments for utility.
2. Jumia
Jumia is an eCommerce platform operating across over 11 African countries, making it one of the largest eCommerce companies in Africa. Founded in 2012, Jumia has grown to become the go-to platform for Africans looking to shop online.
This platform offers various products, including clothing, electronics, home appliances, beauty products, books, and more. By bringing retail options closer to customers who may otherwise have limited or no access, Jumia truly empowers Africans with choice and convenience when shopping online.
3. Obami
Founded by in South Africa, Obami is a powerful learning management system designed to help schools increase student engagement and success.
The cloud-hosted platform allows teachers to easily create course plans, track student progress, assign tasks, deliver assessments, and communicate with parents – all from a single web-based platform.
The system also has powerful analytics capabilities, which can analyze student performance data and customize teaching materials accordingly.
With Obami, African software engineers are creating powerful educational tools to help unlock students’ potential all over the continent.
4. The Kenya Open Data Initiative (KODI)
Developed by the former Kenyan President, the Late Mwai Kibaki, KODI aims to provide access to government data collected at both local and national levels.
This open data can be accessed and used freely by anyone.
It lets citizens see where their tax money goes and allows civil society organizations to monitor government performance.
Such initiatives are necessary steps toward enhancing transparency and accountability within African governments.
5. BRCK
BRCK is a rugged and versatile device designed to bring reliable internet connectivity to remote parts of the continent.
The device works like a Wi-Fi router but has been built to withstand harsh weather conditions.
BRCK is powered by solar, mains power, car battery, or any other 12V power source, making it ideal for use in areas with unreliable electricity supply.
Its long-range Wi-Fi coverage ensures that villages miles away from towns can now access internet services.
This invention could provide much-needed connectivity to many rural communities in Africa.
Final Thoughts
As African software engineers continue to make strides in technological innovation, it is clear that they will be at the forefront of driving change on the continent.
With increased access to funding and support from local governments, we can look forward to seeing even more impressive innovations coming out of Africa.
And innovators are changing lives and providing solutions to complex problems, which can only lead to a better future for all Africans.
By working together, we can ensure that these fantastic innovations continue to drive progress within the continent and allow future generations to thrive.