The ACIC has unveiled the 10 outstanding youth-led startups selected as finalists for the 2025 edition, spotlighting Africa’s boldest innovators advancing climate-smart, sustainable, and circular economy solutions across the continent.

Now in its fourth year, the Challenge continues to empower young entrepreneurs tackling Africa’s toughest environmental challenges, from plastic waste to food loss, energy access, and biodiversity protection through creativity, technology, and community leadership.

The finalists were chosen from 35 startups across 20 countries and will advance to the Final Pitch Event in Kampala, Uganda, on November 29, 2025, where they will compete for seed funding, mentorship, and investor partnerships to scale their impact.

 

The 2025 Finalists: Transforming Local Challenges into Climate Opportunities

Below are the 10 remarkable startups leading the charge for a climate-resilient and sustainable Africa.

Eastern Freshaura (Ghana)

Eastern Freshaura upcycles agricultural waste into natural coatings that extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by up to 14 days, helping farmers reduce losses, increase profits, and cut emissions from food waste.

EcoFibre (Cameroon)

EcoFibre is redefining Cameroon’s circular economy by transforming banana waste into biodegradable paper and packaging. By replacing single-use plastics and reducing deforestation, the startup pioneers a locally sourced, sustainable alternative to imported packaging materials.

Greentech Bioenergy (Sierra Leone)

Turning agricultural residues into clean bioenergy and biochar, Greentech Bioenergy is reducing CO₂ emissions, improving soil fertility, and creating sustainable rural energy alternatives.

Helton Traders Limited (Uganda)

By recycling over 12,000 kilograms of plastic waste into durable construction materials, Helton Traders Limited is transforming Uganda’s plastic problem into climate-smart infrastructure. Their paving blocks and tiles support cleaner cities and a circular economy.

Jafife (Morocco)

With smart solar dryers that reduce post-harvest food losses, Jafife is helping farmers preserve crops, cut emissions, and increase incomes. Their technology is strengthening food security while building climate resilience in rural areas.

Pollen Patrollers (Kenya)

Pollen Patrollers empower beekeepers with digital tools and training to enhance pollination and boost agricultural yields. With over 3,000 active users, their innovation is safeguarding biodiversity while strengthening food security.

Rôbalôtô (Togo)

Through smart recycling systems in schools, Rôbalôtô is tackling plastic pollution at the source. By combining digital innovation with youth engagement, the initiative turns waste into educational tools and solar-powered products, fostering climate-conscious communities.

Sebio (Madagascar)

Sebio is reviving traditional plant-based materials by producing biodegradable sanitary pads from cypérus and banana fibers. This innovation promotes women’s health, combats plastic pollution, and champions sustainable consumption habits.

Trashcoin (Nigeria)

With over 2.5 million kilograms already diverted from landfills, Trashcoin is reimagining waste collection through gamified recycling. This innovation allows users to earn digital rewards for collecting plastics while creating green jobs and reducing emissions from open burning.

Zuripacks (Kenya)

Zuripacks is replacing plastic packaging with sustainable, plant-based alternatives, helping reduce pollution, conserve resources, and build climate resilience in flood-prone urban areas.

 

Empowering Africa’s Next Generation of Climate Entrepreneurs

Each of these startups embodies the mission of ACIC to nurture youth-driven, community-centered innovation that delivers tangible solutions for a sustainable Africa.

Through mentorship, technical support, and international exposure, ACIC equips young entrepreneurs to move beyond ideas, building scalable enterprises that tackle real environmental challenges while creating green jobs and sustainable livelihoods.

The ACIC 2025 Final Pitch Event in Kampala will be a celebration of these innovations and the incredible potential of Africa’s youth to lead climate action from the ground up. Join us as we spotlight the future of Africa’s green economy.