African founders set for Cape Town at GEC+Africa 2026

After making stops in nine African countries, the Road to GEC+Africa is heading to its final destination. South Africa will host the last Regional Bootcamp and Pitch Competition before GEC+Africa 2026 opens at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on 16 and 17 September. The roadshow has travelled through Botswana, Uganda, Namibia, Algeria, Ghana, Nigeria, Egypt, Kenya and Tanzania. Along the way, startups have pitched their businesses, met investors and connected with other founders ahead of the main congress.

Startups tackling everyday business challenges

The regional competitions have featured businesses from logistics, fintech, agriculture, healthcare and climate technology. Although they operate in different sectors, many are solving practical challenges faced by businesses and communities. One example is Ghana-based Swiftway Shippers, founded by Abubakar Sadick Fuseini. The company has developed a digital logistics platform for freight, customs clearance and shipment tracking. Its services help SMEs and online retailers move goods across borders more efficiently. In Uganda, Helton Traders Limited, founded by Munyasa Hellen, has taken a different approach. The business turns discarded plastic bottles into sewing thread for local manufacturers. It reduces waste while creating a commercially useful product. These businesses reflect a broader trend seen throughout the roadshow. Many startups are solving local problems while preparing to expand into new African markets.

Growth needs more than funding

Funding remains one of the biggest hurdles for African startups. However, many founders say access to customers, partners and experienced mentors is equally important. Events such as GEC+Africa bring founders together with investors, corporate decision-makers, policymakers and development organisations. Those conversations often lead to partnerships that continue long after the competition ends. As more startups expand across borders, those networks are becoming increasingly valuable.

South African founders get the final opportunity

Applications are now open for South Africa’s Regional Bootcamp and Pitch Competition. It is the last qualifying event before the September congress. The programme gives founders an opportunity to present their businesses, receive feedback from industry experts and meet potential investors. Successful participants will also join entrepreneurs from across the continent in Cape Town. More than 2,000 delegates from over 43 African countries are expected to attend GEC+Africa 2026. The two day programme includes keynote sessions, panel discussions, startup showcases, investor meetings and networking events. Discussions will focus on entrepreneurship, innovation and business growth across Africa. For startups, the congress offers access to investors and potential business partners. Investors and corporate delegates will have the opportunity to meet businesses operating in some of Africa’s fastest growing sectors. With the regional roadshow coming to an end, attention now turns to Cape Town. Entrepreneurs from across the continent will gather there to discuss the next stage of Africa’s startup ecosystem.