Unlocking Africa

Episode 98 with Ismael Belkhayat, who is the founder and CEO of Chari, an e-commerce app that has recently been valued at $100 million. Chari helps small retailers in French-speaking Africa procure inventory for their stores and get it delivered for free while benefiting from payment facilities.It is a one-stop shop for traditional proximity stores, allowing them to order any consumer goods they sell and get them delivered for free while benefiting from financial services.Ismael is an experienced startup founder with a demonstrated history of working in the internet industry. A data-driven, strong business development professional who graduated from Cornell University and was a former BCG consultant.What We Discuss With IsmaelHow does Chari specifically benefit small retailers in French-speaking Africa?What are the main challenges you've faced in scaling Chari in the African market, and how have you addressed them?Chari recently secured $1.5 million in funding. Can you share how this funding will be utilised to further Chari's mission and growth?What strategies does Chari employ to ensure efficient and reliable delivery services, especially in regions with challenging logistics infrastructure?With your experience as a startup founder and two successful exits, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make an impact in the African tech ecosystem?Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Diving Into Search Funds. An Emerging Investment Vehicle That Could Deliver Higher Returns in Africa with Ibrahim Abdel Rahim? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Ismael on LinkedIn at Ismael Belkhayat, and Twitter @ismaelbelkhayat Support the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode 97 with Ibrahim Abdel Rahim, who is a managing partner at Moonbase Capital. Moonbase Capital invests in SMEs through Search Funds, an innovative new asset class that combines the stability of private equity with the agility of venture capital in order to yield more consistent returns to our investors at lower risk.Their main focus is on providing entrepreneurs with hands-on support throughout the search, acquisition, and growth phases of their journey, leveraging 40 years of combined experience as operators, consultants, CEOs, and CFOs, building and selling businesses globally.What We Discuss With IbrahimIn your consulting experience, what specific insights or skills did you gain that now contribute to your effectiveness as a managing partner at Moonbase Capital?Could you explain what search funds are and how you first came across this innovative asset class?How does Moonbase Capital's focus on investing in SMEs through Search Funds provide distinct advantages in comparison to conventional private equity or venture capital investment strategies?What role does Moonbase Capital play in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Africa and beyond?How does Moonbase Capital implement strategies and practices to achieve its goal of delivering consistent returns with lower risk? And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Mobilising Capital, Fostering Collaboration, and Driving Change in African Tech with Anthony William Catt? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Ibrahim on LinkedIn at Ibrahim Abdel RahimSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode 96 with Anthony William Catt, who is the founder and director of Ventures 54. A company on a mission to build and strengthen the international investment corridors between Africa’s tech, startup, and investor ecosystems and the rest of the world by mobilising capital and facilitating investmentWorking with governments, DFIs, and other international funding agencies to provide technical assistance to founders and investors by establishing key networks, unlocking human and commercial resources, and creating access to global markets and investment opportunities.What We Discuss With AnthonyHow did your personal interest in building connections between the UK and Africa, specifically in the fields of technology and startups, develop?Could you elaborate on the role of technical assistance funding in the African startup ecosystem and how Ventures 54 facilitates its deployment?Could you highlight the common trends and preferences you've observed among investors seeking to invest in the African tech scene?In your experience, how can the UK act as a springboard for African entrepreneurs seeking global exposure and growth?What advice would you offer to UK companies looking to explore opportunities and tap into talent within African markets?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Investing in Financial Inclusion by Unlocking the Potential of Fintech Startups in Egypt and Beyond with Rana Abdel Latif? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Anthony  on LinkedIn at Anthony William Catt, and Twitter @AnthonyWCattSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode 95 with Rana Abdel Latif, who is an investment professional with cross-transactional expertise in M&A, financing, and restructuring deals across various industries and also a senior principal at Nclude.Nclude is an investment platform for fintech innovation. Founder-centric in design, it supports early and growth-stage entrepreneurs who are tackling financial inclusion and enables their success by offering a full-stack support ecosystem for fintech and fintech-enabled start-ups in Egypt and beyond.What We Discuss With RanaIs there a particular reason why you focus on fintech and fintech-enabled startups, particularly those addressing financial inclusion?What challenges and opportunities do you see in the fintech landscape in the regions Nclude operates in?Do you think the investment environment in Egypt and the North African region is favourable for startups, or do you believe there's room for further improvement? With your experience across different geographical regions, what insights can you share about the unique characteristics of the fintech scenes in the North Africa region? What are some key factors that you believe contribute to the success of fintech startups in today's competitive landscape? And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss The Power of Information: Revolutionising Market Intelligence in African Economies With Joseph Rutakangwa? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Rana  on LinkedIn at Rana Abdel LatifSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode 94 with Joseph Rutakangwa, who is the founder and CEO of Rwazi, which is a market intelligence platform that provides multinational consumer goods companies with actionable data from developing markets on who is buying what, for how much, from where, when, and why, to help them drive revenue and expand.Rwazi combines technology and a network of 20,000+ qualified data collectors (called "mappers") spread across urban and rural areas in 40+ countries in Africa, Asia, and South America to collect data from their localities, allowing them to collect data from thousands of locations and consumers on a daily basis.What We Discuss With JosephCould you explain how Rwazi's platform gathers actionable data from emerging markets? What's the process like?Could you elaborate on how Rwazi's data helps multinational consumer goods companies drive revenue and expand in these markets?Can you discuss the challenges you've faced in building and maintaining a network of mappers in remote areas? How have you overcome these challenges?How do you ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data collected by your network of mappers?Given the diverse cultures and markets you cover, how does Rwazi navigate cultural sensitivities while collecting data?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Nurturing Innovation: Building and Scaling African Startups with Expert Support with Thabiso Foto? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Joseph  on LinkedIn at Joseph Rutakangwa, and Twitter @JRutakangwaSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode 93 with Thabiso Foto, the Chief Financial Officer at Founders Factory Africa.  Thabiso currently leads the finance and operations departments at Founders Factory Africa, providing invaluable strategic, technical, and operational guidance to their vibrant community of start-ups.Founders Factory Africa is a tailored, corporate-backed accelerator and incubator that builds and scales 100+ tech businesses across the African continent. FFA is based on a unique model of combining leading corporate investors and partners with a fully-fledged operational team to design, build, and grow African tech start-ups. FFA are venture builders dedicated to solving some of Africa’s biggest challenges and capitalising on its incredible potential by leveraging market and tech opportunities. At the core of Founders Factory Africa's mission is the creation of an ecosystem that fosters genuine innovation. Their objective is clear: to be the best growth engine for founders across Africa and beyond. What We Discuss With ThabisoHow do you manage the diversification of investments and navigate the various challenges and opportunities presented by different African markets?How does Founders Factory Africa promote collaboration among corporates, investors, and startup talent to foster innovation and drive growth within the African tech industry?What insights have you gained from your experiences with early-stage African entrepreneurs, and how have these insights influenced the development of your investment strategies?What are the main challenges faced by early-stage African startups, and how does Founders Factory Africa tackle these challenges through its investment and support initiatives?How does Founders Factory Africa measure the social impact of its investments?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Savings, Simplicity, Success: Transforming African Businesses Through Spend Management with Yemi Olulana? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Thabiso  on LinkedIn at Thabiso Foto, and Twitter @FoundersFFA Support the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode 92 with Yemi Olulana, the CEO of Flex Finance, the leading spend management and corporate card platform for African businesses. Flex Finance empowers businesses across Africa to gain control over their expenses through their user-friendly web and mobile platforms, as well as corporate cards. They have successfully assisted thousands of businesses, liberating business owners and finance teams from the stress of spend management.Flex Finance simplifies this critical aspect of business, making it not only manageable but delightful. By offering streamlined processes, they help businesses save significant amounts of money and time, ultimately contributing to their growth and success.Yemi Olulana, with over a decade of experience, has a proven track record in building startups within various sectors including e-commerce, web3, and fintech. His expertise and leadership have been instrumental in driving Flex Finance's success in empowering businesses across Africa.What We Discuss With YemiCan you explain how the spending processes in many African businesses are restricting their potential for growth and efficiency?What challenges did you face when introducing a technology-based solution, given the widespread use of traditional methods such as email and paper for spending requests in Africa?Having worked with over 2,500 businesses, can you share any trends or insights you've gathered regarding spending behaviours in African businesses?How does Flex Finance support the larger objectives of financial inclusion and economic empowerment in Africa?In a continent as diverse as Africa, what factors did you consider to ensure that Flex Finance is adaptable and effective across various business contexts?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss How Africa’s Biggest Mini-Grid Owner is Creating Economic Growth by Providing Electricity to Rural Communities with William Brent? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Yemi  on LinkedIn at Yemi Olulana, and Twitter @coderwaSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #91 is with William Brent, the Chief Marketing Officer of Husk Power Systems, a global leader in distributed utilities. Since its establishment in 2008, Husk Power Systems has been at the forefront of providing dependable electricity to rural communities and businesses, all powered by renewable energy sources. Their commitment is unwavering—delivering uninterrupted power, 24/7, at a price they can afford.What sets Husk Power Systems apart is its innovative approach. Through a user-friendly, mobile-enabled smart metering system, they offer a flexible “pay-as-you-go” energy service using a mobile-enabled smart metering system. It provides low-cost energy that matches the growing needs of our customers, for households, community services, and productive uses. Its grid-compatible solution can be rolled out quickly and cost-effectively to support national electrification plans. What We Discuss With WilliamHow does Husk Power Systems help provide steady electricity to rural areas in Sub-Saharan Africa?Are mini-grids a more suitable option for connecting unelectrified rural communities in Sub-Saharan Africa, considering factors like cost-effectiveness and scalability?How does Husk Power Systems maintain a balance between offering low-cost energy and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its operations?What challenges has Husk faced in finding suitable places for deploying mini-grids, and how do they solve these challenges?In Nigeria, where Husk operates, do the policy and regulatory frameworks support or stop the expansion of mini-grids and renewable energy projects?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Bamboo's Journey to Revolutionise Investment for Africans in the Face of Economic Challenges with Richmond Bassey? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with William  on LinkedIn at William Brent, and Twitter @HuskPowerSystemSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #90 is with Richmond Bassey, who is the CEO and founder of Bamboo, which is an investment platform that gives Africans the tools to build wealth from the ground up through real-time access to global markets.In countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, individuals often witness their hard-earned savings dwindle away due to weakening currencies and soaring inflation rates. In fact, the Naira and Cedi were among the worst-performing currencies globally last year. Bamboo, however, stands as a beacon of hope in these challenging financial times.Bamboo has raised a total of $18.3 million in investment and is backed by prominent US investors Tiger Global and Greycroft. Bamboo has 633k users, is present in Nigeria and Ghana, and is looking to launch in South Africa and Kenya this year. What We Discuss With RichmondHow does Bamboo aim to help Africans build long-term wealth through investing in US stocks?Could you elaborate on how wealthtech has opened US capital markets to Africans?What challenges did you face in the early stages of establishing the platform and opening US capital markets to Africans?What learnings and insights did you gain from the experience of the Central Bank of Nigeria freezing Bamboo's bank accounts in 2021?Can you elaborate on Bamboo's approach to building a B2B and B2C sales channel strategy and how this approach benefits the company, considering the complexity involved in this approach?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss How Effective PR Can Transform African Companies and Nations: PR, Perception, and Progress with Bemi Idowu? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Richmond  on LinkedIn at Richmond Bassey, and Twitter @RichmonbSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #89 is with Bemi Idowu, who is a PR and communications specialist with vast experience in leading and delivering successful media campaigns for a wide range of companies, from established global players to Africa-focused start-ups.Bemi is also the founder and managing director of Talking Drum Communications, which is a public relations and communications consultancy that supports companies innovating in Africa to shape perceptions and get more effective publicity for the work they are doing.They work with technology companies, manufacturers, and other innovators that are enabling new opportunities to drive economic growth on the continent, delivering successful media campaigns that align with their business goals.What We Discuss With Bemi What inspired you to start a public relations and communications consultancy focusing on Africa's innovators? How important are effective publicity and perception-shaping for companies innovating in Africa?How can PR and communications be utilised as tools to leverage economic growth in Africa?Is there a correlation between positive PR and communications and investment flows into Africa or into specific companies?What are some common misconceptions or stereotypes about doing PR and communications in Africa, and how do you address them?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Growing Together. The Future of Medicine in Africa. Data, Tech, and Remedial Health with Samuel Okwuada? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Bemi  on LinkedIn at Bemi Idowu, and Twitter @mr_bemiSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #88 is with Samuel Okwuada, who is the CEO and co-founder of Remedial Health, a ground-breaking company at the forefront of revolutionising healthcare delivery in Africa through the power of data and technology.Remedial Health's mission is clear: to enhance the accessibility and affordability of medicines. They achieve this by establishing a direct supply chain from manufacturers to pharmacies for medical and non-medical essentials, thereby cutting out unnecessary intermediaries.Remedial Health offers innovative  financing and inventory management solutions that empower both pharmacies and patients alike. What We Discuss With SamuelDo you feel that your experience in the UK influenced how you started and expanded Remedial Health?What makes Remedial Health stand out from other pharmaceutical marketplaces, and what unique value do you provide to your customers?How is Remedial Health tackling the issue of a fragmented market and creating greater visibility in the supply chain for manufacturers?One of your core commitments is to provide affordable medicine in Africa. How have you managed to achieve this commitment while facing global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation?What role has technology played in enabling you to manage the solutions that you offer from end to end?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Growing Together. How Collaboration and Partnerships Are Transforming African Agriculture With Jennifer Baarn? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Samuel  on LinkedIn at Samuel Okwuada, and Twitter @remedial_healthSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #87 is with Jennifer Baarn is the head of partnerships at  Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), which is an alliance led by Africans with roots in farming communities across the continent. They understand that African farmers need uniquely African solutions designed to meet their specific environmental and agricultural needs so they can sustainably boost production and gain access to rapidly growing agricultural markets. AGRA is an African-led and African-based institution that puts smallholder farmers at the centre of the continent’s growing economy by transforming agriculture from a solitary struggle to survive into What We Discuss With JenniferWhat strategies or programmes do you believe need to be implemented to promote collaboration and alliances in agriculture across the continent?AGRA emphasises "uniquely African solutions" for farmers. Could you provide some examples of these solutions and how they have positively impacted farming communities?When forming partnerships in African agriculture, how can we ensure that these partnerships are inclusive and considerate of gender and social equity in farming communities?What role do technology and innovation play in advancing partnerships across African agriculture? What role do you believe partnerships between the public and private sectors can play in boosting agriculture in Africa? And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss From Passion to Plate. How to Build an African Food Empire in the UK With Olusegun Akande? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Jennifer  on LinkedIn at Jennifer Baarn, and Twitter @JenniferBaarnSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #86 is with Olusegun Akande, who is the cofounder and director of Samis Online African Foods, which is the UK’s one-stop Afro-Caribbean Online Superstore. They are specialists in African groceries and original products of the highest quality. What sets Samis apart is their commitment to sourcing 90% of their fresh food produce from Nigeria, even though they operate both within and outside the country.Samis Online African Food has not only captured the hearts and palates of Nigerians living in the UK but has also provided employment opportunities, further bolstering the economic landscape of both countries. What We Discuss With OlusegunWhat difficulties have you faced forming relationships with farmers or suppliers in Africa to support and strengthen the quality and quantity of products that you source from Africa?How do recent changes in Nigeria, like the Naira redesign and the removal of fuel subsidies, affect the work you're doing?Outside of Africa, how did events like Brexit affect your operations and how you now run your business?During these challenging times, how do you make sure that your products are both accessible and affordable for consumers?How do you source and select the products that are featured on your platform?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Redefining Banking in Sub-Saharan Africa: Affinity Africa's Journey to Financial Inclusion with Tarek Mouganie? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Olusegun  on LinkedIn at Olusegun Akande, and Twitter @samis_foodsSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #85 is with Tarek Mouganie, who is the founder of Affinity Africa, which is an owner and operator of financial services companies in sub-Saharan Africa. Affinity prides itself on establishing digital-forward and branch-light financial institutions, leveraging fintech and innovative design-led solutions to improve financial access and affordability.Affinity supports the unbanked and underserved by providing every individual and business with accessible and affordable financial services they can trust. The business intends to make digital banking a successful and valuable part of its distribution strategy, showcasing a better standard for banking in Africa.Founded in 2013, Affinity launched in Ghana in 2015 after acquiring PayFlex Microfinance Company Limited (now known as Affinity Ghana Savings and Loans) to focus on financial inclusion and financial literacy in a region that is underserved and under-penetrated.  What We Discuss With TarekWhat type of money-related services does Affinity Africa provide to people in sub-Saharan Africa who don't have bank accounts or aren't getting the help they need?How does Affinity ensure that the financial services that it provides are accessible and affordable for every individual and business?What are the main obstacles or challenges Affinity Africa has faced while operating in the sub-Saharan African market?How does Affinity collaborate with local governments, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to foster financial inclusion and support the growth of MSMEs?In your opinion, what are the key factors necessary for creating a better standard for banking in Africa, particularly in underserved regions?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss From Passion to Progress: Pioneering Ways for Africa’s Creative Industries to Grow with Yemisi Mokuolu? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Tarek  on LinkedIn at Tarek Mouganie, and Twitter @TMouganieSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #84 with Yemisi Mokuolu, who is an award-winning and highly regarded independent producer and creative industries business consultant. She is the founder and CEO of Hatch Ideas, which develops and promotes African arts and artists. She is also an independent producer and has produced some of London’s largest African arts festivals. HATCH works across the creative, cultural, and social sectors, bringing to life initiatives that have the potential to drive inclusion and diversity, generate greater wealth for communities, and improve social environments. Clients include Arts Council England, BBC London, City University, the Department for Industry & Trade (UK), Historic England, Kings College London, the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, and Social Enterprise London.What We Discuss With YemisiWith two decades of experience under your belt, you started this journey when Africa's creative and cultural industries weren’t really getting much attention. What did you see then that other people were missing?Are you surprised by what Africa's creative and cultural industries have achieved so far?You recently co-authored the book chapter "Finance for Creative and Cultural Industries in Africa". What were some of the key themes and findings of the report?In your opinion, what are some of the key challenges faced by Africa's Creative & Cultural Industries, and how can they be overcome?Can you share examples of how the creative and cultural industries in Africa have positively impacted local communities and economies?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Harvesting Connections: Unveiling Strategies for Boosting Regional Food Trade in Africa with Daniel Njiwa? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Yemisi  on LinkedIn at Yemisi Mokuolu, and Twitter @IdeasHatchSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #83  with Daniel Njiwa, who is Head of Regional Food Trade at Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), an international NGO established by Kofi Annan to drive the advancement of sustainable agriculture in Africa.AGRA leads interventions in improving the predictability of the policy and regulatory environment while coordinating investments for market activation, allowing for inclusive and sustainable participation of small farmers in national and regional value chains. The organisation is an alliance led by Africans with roots in farming communities across the continent and puts smallholder farmers at the centre of the continent’s growing economy.What We Discuss With DanielWhat are some of the biggest challenges or barriers to regional food trade in Africa?How important is cross-border cooperation and collaboration among African countries in facilitating regional food trade?What role do SMEs play or contribute to food security and agricultural development in Africa?What policy changes or interventions are needed to further promote trade across African borders?In the last couple years, Africa has faced some extreme food security challenges as a consequence of the COVID pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine crisis. What have we learned from this?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Championing Change: Advancing African Women in Leadership, Business, Politics, and Advocacy With Francesca Uriri? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Daniel  on LinkedIn at Daniel Njiwa, and Twitter @DNjiwaSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #82 with Francesca Uriri who is the Co-Founder and Director of Leading Ladies Africa, a women-focused non-profit whose mission is to promote gender inclusivity and diversity by increasing participation and representation of women of African origin in fields of leadership, business, politics, and advocacy.Their vision is to see an increased participation of African women in these fields by 2030. Leading Ladies Africa’s key target audience is upwardly mobile, internet-savvy women aged between 21 and 50. Its secondary audience is lower-income women and the unbanked, who require access to funding and macroeconomic support. What We Discuss With FrancescaHow would you describe the current state of gender inclusivity and diversity in Africa, particularly in areas such as Leadership, Business, Politics and Advocacy.Which strategies or programs do you believe are essential for empowering the women you work with, enabling them to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to progress in leadership and business roles?How does Leading Ladies Africa effectively leverage technology and digital platforms to reach and engage with its audience?You have a focus on lower-income women and the unbanked. How does Leading Ladies Africa address these challenges or barriers they face in accessing funding and macro-economic support? How does Leading Ladies Africa measure and track progress towards achieving its goals? And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Developing a Networking Platform to Bridge the Gap Between Investors and Game-Changing Entrepreneurs in Africa with Gerrad Olisa-Ashar? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Francesca  on LinkedIn at Francesca Uriri, and Twitter @LeadingLadiesAFSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #81 with Gerrad Olisa-Ashar, the visionary Co-Founder of Diaspora Investment Partners Africa. Join us as we delve into the remarkable story behind this groundbreaking networking platform that is revolutionising the landscape of African entrepreneurship and sustainable development.Gerrad Olisa-Ashar, an inspiring entrepreneur and thought leader, shares his personal journey and the pivotal experiences that led to the inception of Diaspora Investment Partners Africa. Discover how Gerrad's passion for empowering African communities and creating lasting positive impact sparked the idea of a platform that bridges the gap between private investors and innovative entrepreneurs on the continent. What We Discuss With GerrardHow do you plan to facilitate the connection between private investors in the diaspora and entrepreneurs in Africa?What challenges do Africans in the diaspora encounter when attempting to invest back home in Africa?What role does the African diaspora currently play, or have the potential to play, in supporting and investing in African businesses through your platform?Are there any unique challenges specific to Africa that you encounter when attempting to invest the funds raised in African markets?How do you effectively navigate the distinct cultural and regulatory landscapes across various African countries while facilitating investments and partnerships?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Empowering African Markets: The Impactful CrossBoundary Approach to Purposeful Investing with Nneka Chime? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Gerrard  on LinkedIn at Gerrad Olisa-AsharSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #80 with Nneka Chime, who is a Partner at CrossBoundary and has a profound interest in utilising technology, innovation, and investments to foster a more equitable and sustainable world.CrossBoundary is a mission-driven investment firm dedicated to harnessing the potential of capital for sustainable growth and robust returns in underserved markets.With a transaction-centred approach to underserved markets, CrossBoundary offers investment advisory services, boasting specialised expertise in unlocking investment opportunities across all sectors in emerging and underserved markets. Their diverse clientele for advisory services includes governments, development finance institutions, private equity firms, Fortune 100 companies, and research institutions.What We Discuss With NnekaWhat is CrossBoundary's transaction-centered approach to underserved markets, and how does it differ from traditional investment models?Can you provide examples of successful investment projects by CrossBoundary in African markets, and how they have led to sustainable growth and strong returns?What challenges does CrossBoundary encounter while operating in African markets, and how does the company overcome them to achieve its investment objectives?As CrossBoundary is located in Nigeria, how has the series of challenges faced by the Nigerian economy in 2023, such as the Naira redesign and change of government, affected the company's operations?How does CrossBoundary align its investments with sustainable development goals (SDGs) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles?And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss Unlocking Billions of Dollars: Capital Reallocation and Asset Recovery in Africa with Amaechi Nsofor? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Nneka  on LinkedIn at Nneka Chime, and Twitter @CrossBoundary Support the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk

Episode #79 Amaechi Nsofor, who is a partner and Head of Africa, Insolvency, and Asset Recovery at Grant Thornton, and his multi-award-winning and renowned team have pioneered the use of insolvency powers to facilitate litigation and trace and recover misappropriated assets. Grant Thornton is a firm with a global network that employs 58,000 people in 135 countries. They combine global scale with local insight and understanding to give clients the assurance, tax, and advisory services they need to realise their ambitions. What We Discuss With AmaechiCan you explain the concept of capital reallocation and how it can positively impact industries and markets across Africa?What are some of the key challenges currently hindering effective capital reallocation in African economies, and how can these be addressed?How can the unlocking of billions of dollars of cash at the sovereign and state levels contribute to sustainable development and economic growth in Africa? How can governments and policymakers encourage and facilitate capital reallocation in Africa? Are there any specific policy measures that you recommend?What are some of the potential risks and pitfalls associated with capital reallocation, and how can they be mitigated? And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: Unlocking Africa show notesDid you miss my previous episode where I discuss From Africa to the World: How Five African Women are Shaping Industries in the Diaspora with 5 Off The Cuff Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser on LinkedIn at TerserAdamu, and Twitter @TerserAdamuConnect with Amaechi  on LinkedIn at Amaechi Nsofor, and Twitter @GrantThorntonUKSupport the showReady to tap into the exciting opportunities of African markets? Uncover a wealth of invaluable tips to elevate your success to new heights! There's no need to delay – venture over to the ETK Group website today. Explore how we can empower and guide you in seamlessly entering and thriving across diverse African markets and sectors. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.uk