Bye, Bye 2024, Veni-Vidi-Vici, From Sahara Ventures CEO’s Desk
Ladies, gentlemen, and innovation enthusiasts
As we close the chapter on 2024, we can’t help but marvel at the journey we’ve had at Sahara Ventures. It’s been a year of hard work, countless late nights, ambitious ideas, and moments of pure joy when things came together in ways only God could orchestrate. We’ve laughed, learned, and grown so much as a team, and now we want to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve accomplished — and give thanks to the incredible people who’ve made it all possible.
2024 in Numbers: Milestones That Matter
This year has been nothing short of extraordinary. We worked with 10 universities, helping them create vibrant innovation ecosystems that inspire the next generation of changemakers. We facilitated over $3 million in seed investments for startups, connecting bold ideas with capital to help them take flight. Across Africa, we supported 40+ incubators and accelerators, sharing knowledge and building capacity to nurture innovation hubs that impact communities.
Our team accelerated 50+ ventures, including EdTechs, Cleantechs, FinTechs, HealthTechs, and Agritechs — because no challenge is too big when you have technology on your side. Through 30+ ecosystem events, we engaged over 300 founders, giving them platforms to share ideas, find collaborators, and grow their dreams.
On the policy front, we influenced 5+ national innovation policies, ensuring that the regulatory environment supports the bold visions of entrepreneurs. We also delivered 200+ hours of capacity-building workshops, published 6 ecosystem reports and 2 white papers on innovation and AI, and established 8+ strategic partnerships with stakeholders near and far.
And, of course, there was Sahara Sparks 2024, where 500+ participants came together to explore this year’s theme, #PeopleSkillsFuture. It was a moment to celebrate what’s possible when innovation meets community.
Sahara Sparks 2024: Celebrating Connections
If there’s one thing that defines Sahara Sparks, it’s the magic of connection. This year’s event was no exception. With engaging discussions, expert panels, and inspiring keynotes, Sahara Sparks 2024 was a melting pot of ideas and creativity. Our deepest gratitude goes out to our clients, partners, and sponsors, whose unwavering belief in our vision made it all happen.
We’re especially thankful for the Tanzanian government’s continued support. You’ve been champions of the innovation ecosystem, and your efforts have created fertile ground for startups and entrepreneurs to thrive. Your partnership reminds us that innovation is a team sport, and we’re honoured to play alongside you.
Founders: The Heart of Our Work
This year, we had the privilege of working with over 300 founders, each with a unique story and vision. From the fearless EdTech entrepreneurs shaping the future of learning to the Cleantech pioneers tackling climate challenges, their resilience and creativity inspire us daily. It’s a humbling experience to see their ideas come to life, and we’re proud to have played a small role in their journeys.
Looking to 2025: A New Frontier
As we look ahead, 2025 is already brimming with possibility. Our focus will be on unlocking more capital to fuel innovation and digitizing our services to make entrepreneurship more accessible and efficient. We’re also setting our sights beyond Tanzania, exploring opportunities to expand our impact across borders.
It’s an exciting time to be part of the Sahara Ventures family. The world is moving fast, and we’re ready to move faster, all while staying grounded in our mission to build an inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable innovation ecosystem.
This year, we came, we saw, we conquered. We can’t wait for 2025.
Jumanne Mtambalike,
CEO, Sahara Ventures
