Five sustainable companies to watch in 2024

As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, eco-friendly African companies are developing innovative ways to transform a number of sectors and help make local communities more sustainable. Connecting Africa has compiled a list of five sustainable companies that are making an impact in 2024.

These five green ICT companies are not only addressing critical environmental challenges but also driving economic growth and fostering inclusive development. From revolutionizing waste management and promoting digital inclusion, to pioneering renewable energy solutions these companies exemplify the resilience of African entrepreneurship.

1. Sun King

Sun King is a pay-as-you-go solar energy solutions company that focuses on delivering clean, reliable, and affordable energy to off-grid households. The company's products, include solar lanterns and home systems and have reached over 1.5 million people in Tanzania. Its efforts have significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions and saved customers substantial amounts of money.

To ensure that its products are accessible to even the most remote areas in the East African country, Sun King has partnered with local organizations and employs a large network of sales agents.

2. M-Kopa

Connected asset financing platform M-Kopa provides underbanked communities on the African continent with access to essential products, including smartphones, electric motorbikes, and digital financial services. Founded in 2010 by Nick Hughes, Chad Larson, and Jesse Moore, the company was commercially launched in 2012, using digital micropayments combined with GSM connectivity to make life-enhancing assets more accessible.

M-Kopa has provided sustainable fridges to underserved communities. (Source: M-Kopa)

Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, M-Kopa operates in several African countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa. The company has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental impact. For example, M-Kopa has provided solar home systems to more than 1 million customers, which has helped offset 2.1 million tons of CO2.

3. Hemp Solutions

Hemp Solutions is a green ICT startup that specializes in industrial hemp processing.

Based in South Africa, the startup works with local farmers to source hemp and produce raw materials like hemp fiber, hemp hurd and hemp seeds.

The company produces eco-friendly products such as hemp-based building materials, textiles and biofuels, which help reduce the carbon footprint and promote a circular economy.

Hemp Solutions utilizes innovative processing methods and advanced agricultural techniques to produce high-quality hemp products.

The company's approach through its digital platform leverages technology to enhance sustainability.

4. Kobo360

Nigerian green ICT startup Kobo360 is a tech-enabled digital logistics platform that connects cargo owners with truck owners. Founded in 2017 by Obi Ozor and Ife Oyedele II, the startup provides transport, clearing and forwarding, and warehousing services.

Kobo360 provides transport, clearing and forwarding, and warehousing services. (Source: Kobo360)

Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Kobo360 uses a digital platform to match cargo owners with available trucks, optimizing routes and reducing delays. The company also provides real-time tracking and visibility of shipments, ensuring transparency and efficiency.

The firm focuses on creating a streamlined delivery process that reduces delays and unnecessary trips, further cutting down on carbon emissions.

5. Bboxx

Founded by Mansoor Hamayun, Chris Baker-Brian, and Laurent Van Houcke, Bboxx is a utility company that provides affordable, reliable, and clean electricity and other utility services to underserved communities across Africa. Established in 2011, the company uses its solar home systems and other innovative products to unlock potential by offering sustainable energy solutions.

The company uses a combination of solar technology and digital platforms to deliver energy access. Furthermore, it offers pay-as-you-go solar home systems that customers can afford through small, regular payments.

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The Bboxx Pulse platform leverages remote monitoring and the Internet of Things (IoT) technology to ensure reliable service.

These trailblazers are harnessing the power of technology to address some of Africa's most pressing challenges, from energy poverty to inefficient logistics.

*Top image source: Image by senivpetro on Freepik.

— Matshepo Sehloho, Associate Editor, Connecting Africa