Here are The Top 5 Startups Vying for $50K MEST Equity Prize

The MEST Africa Challenge (MAC), Africa’s premier pitch competition for early-stage tech startups, has unveiled the top 5 finalists vying for the coveted $50,000 equity prize. These innovative ventures overcame fierce competition from 40 contenders across Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa, representing diverse sectors like fintech, health tech, e-commerce, and edtech.

The Fierce Five

• Letaji (Kenya): Transforming construction, Letaji is an online marketplace connecting homeowners, contractors, and hardware stores directly with top suppliers, streamlining building material purchases.
• Chestify AI (Ghana): Revolutionizing patient care, Chestify AI bridges the gap between healthcare professionals, ensuring seamless communication and support for improved treatments.
• OneHealth (Nigeria): Leading the health tech charge, OneHealth offers a virtual consultation platform connecting patients with doctors and diagnostic centers, managing prescriptions and test results online.
• Sanya (Senegal): Pioneering IT edutainment, Sanya creates immersive educational and entertainment digital products, fostering a community-based approach to tech learning for companies.
• Koa Academy (South Africa): Shaping the future of online education, Koa Academy pushes boundaries with its innovative digital learning platform, leading the way in South Africa.

“The top 5 are a true testament to Africa’s vibrant tech ecosystem,” exclaims Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor at MEST. “They’ll connect with our network of seasoned entrepreneurs, investors, and partners, vying for the ultimate prize.”

The MAC, a cornerstone of MEST Africa, champions aspiring and early-stage tech startups across the continent. More than just a competition, MEST Africa is a comprehensive training program, seed fund, and network of hubs dedicated to nurturing the next generation of African tech pioneers.

This year’s challenge is bolstered by the collaboration with Absa Bank, a leading African financial services champion of innovation and entrepreneurship. This partnership underlines the collaborative spirit driving Africa’s technological leap forward.

Mark your calendars! The MAC Demo Day promises to be a showcase of Africa’s brightest tech minds. Witness the future unfold as these startups battle for the top spot and the chance to rewrite the continent’s tech landscape.