AfriLabs, recognized as the most extensive network of technology and innovation centers across Africa, has recently announced a significant expansion. The network has welcomed 18 new hubs, thereby extending its reach to a total of 496 hubs situated in 261 cities spanning 53 African countries.
As an organization, AfriLabs is dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship on the continent. It achieves this by creating a collaborative environment that connects technology hubs, startups, investors, and other pivotal players within the innovation ecosystem.
With the latest induction of 18 members, AfriLabs has not only increased the size of its network to 496 but has also reinforced its influence across all African regions. This expansion includes the network’s inaugural hub in Stellenbosch, South Africa – the SU LaunchLab.
Additionally, Southern Africa’s innovation landscape is further enriched with the inclusion of ScaleUp Namibia, OceanHub Africa in Cape Town, and the Graca Machel Trust’s Women Creating Wealth initiative in Johannesburg.
North Africa sees the establishment of DigiArtLivingLab (DALL) in Tunis and Nabeul, Tunisia, as well as Connect’Innov and The Dot in Tunis, the latter being the largest digital hub in the region and partnered with the Tunisian government. Egypt is also welcoming new members with PTS Investments Holdings and Aria Ventures, both located in Cairo.
In West Africa, the network grows with the addition of Mswitch in Abuja, Nigeria. East Africa welcomes several new hubs, including AFRICA TECH SPACE in Nakuru, Kenya; Owl Innovation Labs in Nairobi, Kenya; RLabs Tanzania in Iringa, Tanzania; and AfriFORTIFIED HUB in Kisumu, Kenya.
Central Africa is not left behind, as it greets four new hubs: Ovation and KIVUTECH in Kinshasa and Bukavu, DRC, respectively; Revival Innovation Hub in Bua, Cameroon; and DIAMBILAY BUSINESS CENTER in Lubumbashi, DR Congo.
Mayssa Mrabet, the Director of Community at AfriLabs, expressed her enthusiasm about the network’s growth:
We are truly inspired by the remarkable growth of our network, which showcases Africa’s boundless potential and innovation. Each new hub enriches our community with unique perspectives and opportunities, and we are particularly excited to expand our presence into new regions and cities, including the vibrant city of Stellenbosch in South Africa. Together, we are not just expanding – we are shaping a dynamic and resilient ecosystem that will catalyze transformative change across the continent.
This expansion is a testament to AfriLabs’ commitment to nurturing a dynamic and robust innovation ecosystem that is set to drive transformative change throughout Africa.
