As we enter another year, the Kenyan startup scene is looking vibrant and dynamic. With a renewed focus on innovation, many young entrepreneurs have set their sights on groundbreaking ideas that are poised to revolutionize the industry. In this article, we take a closer look at the top five Kenyan startups to watch out for in 2021.
1. Twiga Foods
Twiga Foods is undoubtedly one of the most exciting startups in Kenya. With a vision to transform the food supply chain in Africa, the company leverages technology to connect farmers and vendors. Using Twiga’s digital platform, farmers can sell their produce directly to vendors, eliminating the traditional middlemen. This model has not only helped farmers earn a better income, but it has also made fresh produce more affordable to consumers. With an impressive track record and a recent funding round of $30 million, we can expect Twiga to continue its rapid growth in 2021.
2. Tanda
Tanda is a mobile app that allows users to save and borrow money through their mobile phones. This startup has been gaining popularity among Kenyans, particularly those who find it difficult to access traditional banks. Tanda’s digital platform provides an easy and secure way for users to save and access credit, making it an invaluable tool for many people. With over $1.5 million in funding, Tanda is poised to grow even more in 2021.
3. Apollo Agriculture
Apollo Agriculture is on a mission to empower small-scale farmers in Kenya. By providing access to finance, quality farming inputs, and advisory services, the startup is helping farmers increase their yields and improve their livelihoods. Apollo Agriculture has received widespread recognition, including being named one of the winners of the prestigious WRI Ross Prize for Sustainable Cities in 2020. With over $6 million in funding, Apollo Agriculture is set to make an even bigger impact in 2021.
4. Ilara Health
Ilara Health is tackling one of the biggest challenges facing the Kenyan healthcare industry – access to diagnostic services. The startup provides affordable and reliable diagnostic equipment to clinics and health centers across Kenya. This not only improves the quality of healthcare, but it also saves lives by providing early diagnosis and treatment. With a recent funding round of $3.75 million, Ilara Health is poised to expand its operations and reach more people in 2021.
5. Lynk
Lynk is a platform that connects skilled workers with customers who need their services. With an impressive range of services, from plumbing to home repairs, Lynk has become a go-to platform for Kenyans seeking reliable and affordable home services. The startup has raised over $6.5 million in funding and has plans to expand its operations beyond Kenya. With its unique business model, Lynk is well-positioned to grow in 2021.
In conclusion, the Kenyan startup scene is a hotbed of innovation, and these top five startups are leading the way. Through their groundbreaking ideas and commitment to leveraging technology to solve real-world problems, they are making a significant impact in the industry. We can expect these startups to continue growing and making a difference in 2021 and beyond.
