African start-ups pushed to build profitable entities before pursuing VC funds

PaySika competed in a pitch competition at the AfricArena 2025 Summit against nine other fintech start-ups.

Organisers say the event was a compelling celebration of West Africa's thriving fintech, mobility, and logistics ecosystem, with five start-ups emerging victorious.

According to the organisers, given Nigeria's track record as a breeding ground for Africa's unicorns, this is a unique opportunity to interact directly with tech talent.

Funti3r uses AI and blockchain technology to transform how global firms find top-tier talent.

The South African start-up uses technology, especially AI, to explore the potential of African medicinal plants for discovering new drugs.

Alexander Hizikias, co-founder and CEO of eQup, describes fintechs as a movement that is transforming people's lives through increased financial inclusion.

A total of 16 companies demonstrated their arsenal of capabilities at the event, including ideal pitching abilities, concise storytelling, pitch decks, and command of their numbers.

The company says it uses bees at the heart of the food chain in order to provide people with sustainable consumer products that are 100% natural.

Angola's tech entrepreneurs are stepping up efforts to highlight the country's growing technology sector.

OkHi intends to on-board large banks and fintechs within the next six months as it ramps up its attempts to be a significant driver of financial inclusion across Africa.

As the summit came to a close on Wednesday, nine winners from over 40 pitching start-ups were named Africa's most noticeable tech start-ups.