Prime Highlights
- Qhala partnered with Mistral AI to launch startup support programs in Nairobi.
- Zerobionic introduced robots that help improve communication for people with hearing disabilities.
Key Facts
- Qhala is a Nairobi-based technology company focused on digital and AI development.
- Women-led technology companies in Africa receive less than five percent of total venture capital funding.
Background
Africa Forward, which recently took place in Nairobi, was an indicator of the rise of the leadership of women in technology across Africa. The gathering was participated in by technology experts, entrepreneurs, and engineers who came together to discuss possible solutions to the issues facing the world at large using AI and robotics technology.
The meeting was jointly organized by the government of Kenya and France and provided women with a platform where they could discuss technology ventures. The leading stars were Shikoh Gitau, CEO of Qhala and Norah Kimathi, co-founder of robotics startup Zerobionic. They were well received by their projects in solving social and economic problems using technology.
One of the big news stories to emerge from the summit has been the deal between Qhala and AI firm Mistral AI. The partnership involves an accelerator program and an incubator in Nairobi, Kenya, to back up start-ups in East Africa. The project will offer technical assistance, mentorship and access to technology tools for small enterprises.
The summit also showcased Zerobionic’s efforts in the field of humanoid robots fabricated using recycled plastic materials. The robots can speak from various languages into sign language or into speech from sign language. The technology targets enhancing communication support for hearing disabled people and enhancing access to education.
Although there have been improvements, women entrepreneurs also shared issues in the tech industry. According to data collected from the industry, African women-led tech start-ups were receiving only a tiny portion of the funding.
This summit was reflective of a growing trend within the technology industry in Africa, where more and more women were steering innovation efforts in different sectors of the economy.
