The Evolution of Startup Funding in Africa: Navigating New Realities (Part V) - Rina Hicks In recent years, the dynamics of raising capital for startups in Africa have undergone a significant transformation, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pre-2020, the continent, particularly emerging economies, was deemed highly attractive for investors due to the promise of substantial returns. With interest rates in developed markets at historic lows, Africa presented an opportunity to yield impressive returns on investment, often exceeding 10%. However, the onset of COVID-19 led to unprecedented challenges. Governments globally responded with economic stimuli, injecting money into their economies to counter the effects of lockdowns and business closures. While this kept economies afloat, it also resulted in an oversupply of money, triggering inflation in many countries. To curb rising inflation, central banks raised interest rates, signaling a shift from years of near-zero rates. This change had a profound impact on emerging markets, starting with challenges faced by economies like Sri Lanka. Investors, once drawn to Africa for high returns, became more cautious. The crisis of exits emerged, with concerns about political instability, economic decisions, currency fluctuations, and significant debt burdens. The era where startups could easily secure funding based on potential alone came to an end. The environment shifted, making it more challenging to raise capital. Investors now demand viability and a demonstrated ability to navigate the complexities of a changing economic landscape. The days of easy capital for African startups are behind us, and the current climate requires entrepreneurs to showcase not just potential but a solid and sustainable business model to attract investment. ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGB1Lz0EMtA

Thank you for your support by helping us create content. MPESA TILL (BUY GOODS) - 5236949 PAYPAL - Njau.richard@gmail.com CARD PAYMENTS - https://checkout.mookhpay.com/cta SEND WAVE - (+254) 0728-595-022 Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE - http://bit.ly/SubscribeToCTA Ms. Mary Wangari currently holds the esteemed position of Group Executive Director at Equity Group Holdings Plc. Prior to her elevation to this role in 2018, she distinguished herself as the Group Company Secretary and Corporate & Strategy Director at Equity Bank from 2007 to 2017. In 2004, Ms. Wangari commenced her tenure at Equity Group as the Company Secretary and Secretary to the board, progressing to the role of Director of Strategy in 2007, a position she occupied until assuming the pivotal role of Group Executive Director, overseeing subsidiaries. Under Ms. Wangari's strategic leadership, the Equity Group has expanded its footprint to include seven banking subsidiaries across Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, Tanzania, DR Congo, and Ethiopia. In addition to these banking entities, the group boasts subsidiaries in insurance, investment banking, and fintech. Ms. Wangari has played a key role in steering the organization towards impactful social investments, resulting in a substantial increase in customer numbers to over 16.1 million by the close of 2021. Initiatives spearheaded by her include the modernization of agriculture through agribusiness activities, microbusiness enhancement through financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and fostering inclusion through social payments. A distinguished member of the Women Corporate Directors Kenya Chapter Association, Ms. Wangari is actively engaged in an association that empowers women with the requisite skills to ascend to visionary leadership roles. She serves as a Non-Executive Director on the Boards of Finserve Africa Limited, Equity Group Foundation, Equity Investment Bank Limited, Equity Insurance Agency Limited, Equity Bank (Uganda) Limited, Equity Bank Rwanda, Equity Bank (Tanzania) Limited, and Equity Banque Commerciale du Congo. Furthermore, she assumes an Executive Director role on the Boards of Equity Bank Limited (Kenya) and Equity Group Holdings Plc. In addition to her corporate responsibilities, Ms. Wangari holds key external positions, including Trustee for Equity Bank Ltd - ESOP. She is also a member of the International Commission of Jurists (Kenya Section) and Institute of Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya (ICPSK), Law Society Of Kenya. Ms. Wangari's multifaceted engagement extends to membership in Women Corporate Directors, showcasing her commitment to professional development and leadership excellence. #cta101 Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE - https://lnkd.in/dCW29ryK Thank you for your support by helping us create content. MPESA TILL (BUY GOODS) - 5236949 PAYPAL - Njau.richard@gmail.com CARD PAYMENTS - https://checkout.mookhpay.com/cta SEND WAVE - (+254) 0728-595-022 Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE - http://bit.ly/SubscribeToCTA ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxgQtgR50Cc