Latest news with #JackMaFoundation
Zawya
09-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Resilience – The Journey of a Determined Entrepreneur Alexander Odhiambo's Path to Success in Africa's Business Heroes Competition
In entrepreneurship, resilience usually makes the difference between winning and losing. Alexander Odhiambo, who co-founded and leads Solutech Limited, exemplifies this spirit. His experience in the Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) ( Prize competition shows the resolve that drives successful business owners. Alexander tried twice to reach the Top 10 group. His persistence finally paid off when he claimed the 2nd Runner-Up spot in the 2024 Grand Finale, winning US$150,000. ABH is the Jack Ma Foundation's flagship philanthropic program in Africa to support entrepreneurs. Its mission is to spotlight and grow local talent who are creating a positive impact in their communities and beyond and to inspire a movement of African entrepreneurship. Over ten years, the program will recognize 100 African entrepreneurs and provide grant funding, training programs and broader support for the African entrepreneurial ecosystem. Lessons from Alexander's ABH Journey Alexander's ABH journey teaches us about not giving up. Many business owners might quit after one failure, but he saw each experience as a chance to learn. His initial attempts got him to the Top 50 and then the Top 20, but he didn't let these stops hold him back. Instead, he improved his business plan and how he spoke about it, and he became a much stronger and more determined leader. He delivered motivational talks in Kigali, Rwanda, and later in Cairo, Egypt. He took every "no" as a lesson, trying again each year with new energy and determination. When he stood on the big stage at the 2024 ABH finale, it proved he was right – not just about his business but about believing in keeping at it and always getting better. Commenting on his achievement, Alexander says, "Resilience is not just about trying again – it's about learning, adapting and growing stronger with every challenge. My journey with ABH has proven that perseverance and continuous improvement are the true keys to success." A Career Built on Resilience Alexander's resilience didn't start with ABH. His entrepreneurial path began years earlier with several ventures that put his ability to handle challenges to the test. As a new university graduate, he tried out different business ideas, and each experience shaped his view on what it takes to succeed. To him, resilience isn't about trying again; it's about adapting, learning, and seeing failures as stepping stones instead of setbacks. His take on failure is straightforward: Every mistake teaches you something, and every challenge gives you a chance to grow. This outlook has helped him turn challenges into opportunities for growth, shaping him into the business leader he is today. Solutech Limited: Growing Through Determination At the core of Alexander's journey is Solutech Limited, a company he co-founded with the dream of transforming enterprise software solutions in Africa. Back in 2014, the rapid growth of Kenyan manufacturers and distributors highlighted some serious challenges - like a lack of field visibility, operational hiccups and poor decision-making. These issues meant that many companies were struggling to grow, often seeing little to no progress, and facing low employee productivity. Recognising this gap in the market, the founders of Solutech - Alexander Odhiambo, Mutie Mule, Rayyidh Bayusuf and Jinal Savla - set out to make a difference. They formed an all-in-one SFA software, known as Solutech SAT, designed to support small, medium and large manufacturing and distribution companies, as well as sales and marketing agencies across Africa. Resilience has been a key ingredient in the company's success story. From building partnerships to scaling operations and fine-tuning its product offerings, perseverance has finally paid off. The US$150,000 prize from ABH will elevate Solutech into its next growth phase, enabling the company to broaden its reach, upgrade its technology and further strengthen its position in the market. Alexander's Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs Looking back on his journey, Alexander shares some valuable insights for fellow entrepreneurs: Firstly, perseverance is essential. Remember, success doesn't happen overnight. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, see them as chances to learn and grow. Secondly, every experience is a learning opportunity. Whether you face a failed pitch or a business deal that didn't go your way, there's always something valuable to take away from it. Also, make the most of platforms like ABH. They aren't about securing funding; they also provide helpful networking opportunities, mentorship and exposure that can help take your business to new heights. Build a solid team, because no entrepreneur achieves success in isolation. Having the right people around you can make a world of difference. Finally, don't underestimate the power of networking and mentorship. The right connections can unlock doors that sheer persistence might not be able to. 2025 ABH Applications Are Now Open African entrepreneurs who want to enter the 2025 edition of the competition and stand a chance to win a share of US$1.5 million can do so at Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa's Business Heroes (ABH).
Zawya
08-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Morocco's First Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Top Three Finalist is Pioneering Water and Sanitation Solutions
In a remarkable milestone for Morocco, Dr. Salma Bougarrani has made history by becoming the first female Moroccan entrepreneur to reach the Top three finalists in the esteemed Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition. Finishing as the 1st Runner-Up. Dr. Bougarrani, the co-Founder and CEO behind Green Watech ( is not just pushing sanitation forward for the rural communities; she's also blazing a trail for women entrepreneurs in an industry where females are often not noticed or heard from. Her inspiring leadership, technical knowledge and commitment to making a difference have seen her rise as a business leader in the water and sanitation industry. The recognition from ABH, the Jack Ma Foundation's flagship philanthropic program in Africa, aligns with its mission to spotlight and support local talent like Dr. Bougarrani, who are driving positive change in their communities. Over a decade, the program aims to honor 100 African entrepreneurs while providing grant funding, training and broader ecosystem support to foster African entrepreneurship. Dr. Bougarrani's journey into the world of water and sanitation began with her firsthand observations of untreated wastewater wreaking havoc in Moroccan villages. Witnessing these difficulties sparked her passion for creating sustainable solutions, leading her to leave the world of academia and pursue a career in entrepreneurship. In 2018, she formed Green Watech to give rural communities access to reasonably priced and energy-efficient sanitation systems. She holds a PhD in Advanced Water Treatment Processes from Med V University and Leipzig University. Impacting Lives Through Sustainable Innovation At the centre of Green Watech's innovation is a groundbreaking soil-based filtration system, which provides the means to treat wastewater for agricultural irrigation. Unlike expensive, energy-hungry technologies, this system is all about being low-maintenance, budget-friendly, and sustainable – perfect for rural communities that often struggle with limited infrastructure. By cutting down the need for fresh water by as much as 70%, Green Watech is transforming the water management landscape in Morocco. Since its inception, Green Watech has changed the lives of over 30,000 people in 17 Moroccan villages and farms. The company has cleaned more than 200 million litres of wastewater, which helps with water shortages and makes farms more productive. Thanks to Green Watech's participatory model, local communities actively participate in the process. Villagers are taught how to set up, maintain, and grow sanitation systems through training programs, which promote resilience and sustainability in the long run. Green Watech's soil-based filter system also cuts down on the need to use fresh water for crops. It offers a long-lasting, cheap, and easy-to-keep-up answer for people in rural areas. The company plans to grow beyond Morocco in the future. It aims to reach North Africa and other places during the year. Breaking Down Barriers as an ABH Trailblazer Dr. Bougarrani's recognition as the first Moroccan entrepreneur to be placed among the top three finalists in the ABH competition is significant. Her success defies cultural expectations and gender norms in a field where male entrepreneurs predominate. Her accomplishment serves as a role model for aspiring female entrepreneurs throughout Africa and highlights her technical expertise and leadership abilities. Her work in sustainable water management has gained her worldwide recognition. She has received top honours, including the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Grand Prize. The Future of Green Wateche Dr. Bougarrani plans to put the $150,000 prize back into Green Watech to help it reach more African communities in need. She has an ambitious goal to reach 1 million end-users by 2030. Her career is an outstanding example of how someone with a strong will and passion can break walls, challenge stereotypes and uplift entire communities. 2025 ABH Applications Are Now Open African entrepreneurs who want to enter the 2025 edition of the competition and stand a chance to win a share of US$1.5 million can do so at Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa's Business Heroes (ABH).
Zawya
31-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Africa's Business Heroes Launches 2025 Call for Applications, Building on Unprecedented Momentum
Following the success of its 6th Summit and Grand Finale held in Kigali, Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) ( – the Jack Ma Foundation's flagship philanthropic initiative in Africa – is proud to announce the launch of its 2025 Call for Applications. This year, ABH is building on its momentum to deepen its impact across the continent by actively encouraging applications from typically underrepresented regions in entrepreneurship competitions, including Francophone and Central Africa. In 2024, ABH saw a historic level of diversity: 39% of applicants were women , with 60% of the Top 10 finalists being female entrepreneurs. , with being female entrepreneurs. For the first time, a Top 10 finalist hailed from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – a powerful milestone for Central Africa. – a powerful milestone for Central Africa. And in another first, a Francophone entrepreneur – Henri Ousmane Gueye from Senegal – won the Grand Prize, marking a major moment for Francophone Africa. Now in its 7th edition, ABH continues its mission to spotlight and support exceptional African entrepreneurs who are creating positive impact in their communities. Why Apply? Unmatched Benefits for African Entrepreneurs Winning a spot among the ABH finalists unlocks the resources and support needed to elevate a business. The Top 10 finalists share $1.5 million in grant funding, with the grand prize winner receiving $300,000, the first runner-up $250,000, and the second runner-up $150,000. The remaining finalists each secure $100,000, plus an additional $100,000 for global immersion training. Beyond funding, ABH finalists gain unparalleled media exposure and access to an exclusive network of Africa's top business leaders, investors and fellow entrepreneurs. This community enables high-level networking and collaboration as well as mentorship and strategic insights to help scale their ventures. Throughout the competition, they also receive valuable feedback from seasoned professionals, strengthening their business acumen, storytelling and long-term growth trajectory. A Testament to Resilience and Perseverance ABH Managing Director for Africa, Zahra Baitie-Boateng, emphasized the resilience needed to succeed in entrepreneurship, highlighting two standout examples from the 2024 competition. 'Henri Ousmane Gueye from Senegal won the Grand Prize on his third attempt, and Alexander Odhiambo from Kenya, our second runner-up, applied twice before reaching the Top 10. Their journeys are a powerful reminder that success at ABH isn't just about taking home the prize. It's about resilience - the courage to keep showing up, to learn, to grow and to keep believing in your vision even when the odds are tough. That's the true spirit of entrepreneurship, and exactly what ABH celebrates." Eligibility Criteria ABH welcomes applications from entrepreneurs across all sectors and African countries. To qualify, applicants must be the founder or co-founder of a business that is registered, headquartered, and primarily operating in Africa. They must be African citizens or direct descendants and have at least three years of revenue with proven market traction. Application Process The ABH competition offers valuable learning opportunities at every stage. Judges rigorously review applications in the first round, selecting the Top 50 based on merit. These finalists then face in-depth interviews with seasoned business leaders, who assess their potential and narrow the pool to the Top 20. Following due diligence on the Top 20, they are announced and advance to the Semi-Final, where they pitch in person to a distinguished panel. Judges then select the Top 10, who compete in the Grand Finale's live pitch competition to determine the winners of the $1.5 million grant funding. How to Apply Entrepreneurs eager to seize this opportunity can begin their journey by registering ( an ABH account and confirming their eligibility. The application requires them to articulate their personal vision, business model and future plans, alongside submitting a reference and a video introduction. Aspiring business leaders across Africa are invited to take this bold step toward funding, mentorship and unparalleled exposure. For more information and to apply, visit Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa's Business Heroes (ABH). For more information contact: info@ +250792575614 About Africa's Business Heroes: The Africa's Business Heroes prize competition is the flagship philanthropic initiative spearheaded by the Jack Ma Foundation aimed at supporting and inspiring the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors who are building a more sustainable and inclusive economy for the future of the continent. Over a 10-year period, ABH will recognize 100 African entrepreneurs and commit to allocating grant funding, training programs, and support for the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Each year, the ABH prize competition and show features 10 Finalists as they pitch their business to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money. Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba Group and the Jack Ma Foundation, created the prize after he made his first trip to Africa in 2017 and was inspired by the energy and entrepreneurial potential of the young people he met with there.
Zawya
17-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Grand Prize Winner Crowned at the Sixth Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Summit and Grand Finale, Marking a Landmark Year for African Entrepreneurship
The Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition ( a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, has announced the grand prize winner of its sixth annual competition, along with the first and second runners-up, at the latest ABH Summit and Grand Finale. The ABH Summit and Grand Finale in Kigali, Rwanda, celebrated the Top 10 finalists, selected from nearly 20,000 applicants to compete for a share of the $1.5 million prize. Under the theme 'AI – African Innovation, Insight and Impact,' they pitched their businesses to a live audience and a distinguished judging panel, including Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali and Ibukun Awosika, Founder of the Chair Centre, who were joined by Fred Swaniker, Founder and CEO of Sand Technologies. The event culminated in the awards ceremony, where the winners were unveiled. The top three Africa's Business Heroes for 2024 are: 1st – winning US$300,000 – Henri Ousmane Gueye, Co-founder&CEO, EYONE ( (Senegal) 2nd – winning US$250,000 – Dr. Salma Bougarrani, Co-Founder&CEO, GREEN WATECH ( (Morocco) 3rd – winning US$150,000 – Alexander Odhiambo, Founder&CEO, Solutech Limited ( (Kenya) Commenting on the win, Henri Ousmane Gueye said, 'I am very proud to be announced as the winner of the 2024 ABH Prize Competition. This achievement is the result of a lot of hard work, and I am incredibly proud of my team. It's a significant milestone for us, and it serves as an encouragement for us to keep working towards solving the problem our innovation addresses. It motivates us to continue tackling the big challenges our country faces.' ABH Managing Director - Africa, Zahra Baitie-Boateng highlighted the debut of ABi, ABH's AI co-host, at this year's Summit and Grand Finale, noting its role in providing insights, sparking discussions and enhancing connections. She emphasized the ingenuity of the Top 10 finalists, whose impact showcases entrepreneurship's power to address Africa's challenges. 'Congratulations to Henri and all our finalists! As we celebrate their success, we're excited to launch the 2025 call for applications and continue empowering Africa's next business leaders.' ABH announced that Rwanda will host the Summit and Grand Finale for the next four years, reinforcing its role as a hub for entrepreneurship. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Rwanda Convention Bureau (RCB) were recognized as key partners, with Bank of Kigali also supporting the event. A Summit of Entrepreneurial Insights and Thought Leadership The two-day ABH Summit and Grand Finale brought together 1,606 participants, showcasing thought leadership and top entrepreneurial talent. Discussions explored how entrepreneurship addresses Africa's key challenges in healthcare, agriculture and education. The event featured live podcast recordings, a debate, TED-style ABHx talks, a financing masterclass and interactive experiences like the ABH Heroes' Circle business 'roast' and Networking in the Dark, a blindfolded networking session. With over 50 distinguished speakers from 15 countries, the lineup included Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board; Nick Hu, Executive Director of Health Innovation at Sand Technologies; Dr. Brenda Kateera, Country Director at the Clinton Health Access Initiative; Nathalie Munyampenda, CEO of Kepler; and Hasan Haider, Founder&Managing Partner at PlusVC and ABH Semi-Final judge. In her opening keynote, ABH Grand Finale judge Ibukun Awosika emphasized 'African Intelligence' as key to shaping the continent's entrepreneurial future. She highlighted purpose-driven leadership, lived experiences and local ingenuity in driving impactful solutions. 'Africa's future will be shaped by those who see challenges as opportunities and take action,' she stated. The 2025 ABH Call for Applications The event closed with the official launch of the 2025 call for applications, inviting African entrepreneurs to apply for the next edition of the competition and stand their chance to win a share of $1.5 million USD. Full details for interested applicants can be found at: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa's Business Heroes (ABH).
