Africa’s Tech and Creative Ecosystem Enters a New Era of Innovation
As these groundbreaking developments unfold, a clear narrative emerges: Africa’s technology and creative sectors are accelerating toward a future defined by digital transformation, inclusion, and entrepreneurial empowerment.
Kofa’s $8 million funding round to scale battery swapping technology signals a leap forward in sustainable energy solutions, addressing critical infrastructure gaps while powering a greener West Africa. This investment not only strengthens the clean energy landscape but also exemplifies the growing appetite for innovative climate-tech ventures on the continent.
Meanwhile, Tendo Technologies’ acquisition of Shopa marks a strategic consolidation that promises to redefine retail supply chains. By merging offline distribution with digital platforms, this move is set to unlock new economic opportunities for informal retailers, strengthening Africa’s backbone of commerce and catalyzing small business growth across borders.
On the cultural front, Kesha’s launch of Smash, a LinkedIn-inspired platform for music professionals, highlights the rising global influence of Africa’s creative economy. By offering a digital space for artists to connect, collaborate, and retain control over their work, Smash could become a vital tool for African musicians eager to break into international markets on their own terms.
Together, these stories showcase how innovation—whether in energy, retail, or creative industries—is increasingly driven by a vision that centers African talent, entrepreneurs, and communities. As these ventures continue to develop, Blacksolvent remains committed to spotlighting the people and technologies shaping Africa’s next chapter.
Ghana’s Kofa Raises $8.1M to Expand Battery Swapping Network and Drive Africa’s Clean Energy Shift
ACCRA, GHANA — In a major push toward clean, accessible energy across the continent, Ghana-based clean-tech startup Kofa has secured $8.1 million in pre-Series A funding to scale its innovative battery-swapping infrastructure. The move is set to significantly expand the company’s footprint across West and East Africa, supporting a wider transition to electric mobility and decentralized power access.
The funding round includes $3.25 million in equity, $4.3 million in debt, and $590,000 in grants. Key backers include E3 Capital and Injaro Investment Advisors, who co-led the round. Additional support came from the Shell Foundation, the UK government’s Transforming Energy Access (TEA) initiative, and a pool of seasoned European angel investors with ties to the global battery industry.
Powering Urban Africa Through Technology
Founded in 2021, Kofa focuses on providing swappable battery systems—compact power units designed to support electric motorcycles, small business operations, and household electricity in regions where access to stable power remains a challenge.
At the heart of the expansion is Kofa’s Kore2 “Swap & Go” system, which enables users to quickly exchange used batteries for fully charged ones at automated stations. The system drastically reduces downtime compared to traditional charging methods and has proven especially useful for delivery riders, microbusinesses, and entrepreneurs who need reliable and mobile energy.
The new Kore2 battery offers a 2.3 kWh capacity, marking a 28% improvement over the Kore1 version. A single unit can power small appliances for up to 15 hours, operate power tools for up to 4 hours, or support electric motorcycles like the TAILG Jidi for up to 100 kilometers on a full charge.
Accelerated Expansion and Infrastructure Growth
Currently operating 12 swap stations in Accra, Kofa plans to scale up to 80 stations by the end of 2024, increasing monthly swap capacity from 20,000 to over 100,000. Some of these hubs are solar-powered, aligning with the startup’s goal to integrate renewable energy into its network.
Kofa’s partnerships with development-focused organizations like Mercy Corps Ventures and Wangara Green Ventures have further solidified its reputation as a viable solution for clean energy and mobility in Africa’s urban hubs.
Climate, Cost, and Economic Benefits
Kofa’s battery swapping solution is 30% more affordable than petrol-powered alternatives, presenting not only an environmental solution but an economic one as well. The startup estimates it will help avert over 2,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually—largely driven by the adoption of electric motorcycles and renewable-powered stations.
For Africa’s growing cities—where energy costs are rising and fuel access remains unreliable—Kofa’s system represents a scalable, cost-effective path toward energy equity and environmental sustainability.
Africa’s Clean Energy Future
With this latest capital injection, Kofa is now positioned to lead a continental clean energy transformation, connecting thousands of users to affordable, on-demand power. As the company expands beyond Ghana into new African markets, its impact is expected to multiply—reshaping how cities power their transport, businesses, and everyday life.
Tendo Acquires Shopa to Unify Africa’s Retail Networks and Digitize Informal Trade
ACCRA, GHANA — In a bold strategic move to reshape retail operations across the continent, Ghana-based retail-tech platform Tendo Technologies has acquired commerce solutions startup Shopa in a combined cash and stock deal. This landmark acquisition is set to bridge the gap between Africa’s informal retail networks and its rapidly growing digital commerce ecosystem.
The deal will see Shopa rebranded as Tendo Retail, a new unit within Tendo Technologies focused on equipping traditional retailers with smarter distribution tools, broader product access, and real-time digital integration with suppliers.
Digitizing the Backbone of African Commerce
Founded in 2021, Shopa built its reputation by streamlining distribution for over 3,000 informal retailers in Ghana, using a digital platform to connect small shops with major suppliers. Now, as Tendo Retail, the company will scale these capabilities across West Africa and beyond.
Frank Addae, Shopa’s CEO and co-founder, will lead the Tendo Retail division, bringing his deep experience in last-mile retail logistics and digital FMCG distribution into Tendo’s wider strategy.
Tendo’s Growing Power in Retail-Tech
Tendo, also launched in 2021, empowers individuals to start online businesses without upfront inventory costs. Its network of over 10,000 resellers in Ghana and Nigeria supports more than 42,000 customers, offering a wide product portfolio including fashion, electronics, beauty, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs).
The acquisition significantly enhances Tendo’s supply chain infrastructure, especially in the FMCG sector, which already makes up over 30% of its sales volume. By integrating Shopa’s logistics expertise and ground-level retail presence, Tendo aims to provide faster product access, more consistent inventory, and lower prices for both its resellers and end-users.
Building a Unified Retail Ecosystem
The union of Tendo and Shopa—two startups backed by the Catalyst Fund Inclusive Digital Commerce Accelerator—signals a powerful shift toward unified commerce in Africa. The goal: to digitize every layer of the supply chain, from warehouses and manufacturers to roadside kiosks and mobile resellers.
Felix Manford, Tendo’s CEO, described the acquisition as a pivotal moment in Africa’s retail transformation. “We’re building a platform that breaks down supply barriers and empowers every kind of entrepreneur—online or offline. Tendo Retail is the next evolution in that journey.”
Frank Addae added, “This move allows us to take our mission continent-wide. Together, we’ll create a seamless pipeline from manufacturers to informal retailers, giving them the tools they need to thrive in a digital-first world.”
What Comes Next
With Shopa now under the Tendo umbrella, the company is poised to expand into more African markets, introduce new services tailored to informal retailers, and strengthen its logistics and warehousing capabilities.
As Tendo Technologies scales its operations, Blacksolvent will continue reporting on how this acquisition impacts small business growth, local economies, and the digitization of Africa’s retail supply chains.
Kesha Launches ‘Smash’—A LinkedIn-Inspired Platform for Music Professionals, Seeks Seed Funding
ACCRA, GHANA — In a bold move to revolutionize the music industry’s networking landscape, pop icon Kesha has unveiled plans for her latest venture: Smash, a LinkedIn-style platform tailored specifically for music professionals. Currently in the seed funding phase, Smash aims to bridge the gap between artists, producers, and industry stakeholders, fostering a collaborative and equitable environment for creative growth.
Empowering Artists Through Technology
Smash is envisioned as a hybrid platform combining the professional networking features of LinkedIn with the service marketplace dynamics of Fiverr. It seeks to provide a dedicated space where musicians can connect, collaborate, and offer services without the traditional gatekeeping barriers that have long plagued the industry. Kesha’s vision is to create a community-driven ecosystem where creators retain full rights to their work and have direct access to opportunities.
“I want a place where artists and music makers of any kind can have community, they can collaborate, they can hire each other and retain all the rights to everything they create,” Kesha stated in a recent interview. “There’s no gatekeeping of contacts.”
A New Chapter in Kesha’s Career
This venture marks a significant shift in Kesha’s career trajectory, transitioning from a chart-topping artist to a tech entrepreneur. Following her emancipation from previous contractual constraints, Kesha has been vocal about the need for systemic change within the music industry. Smash represents her commitment to fostering an environment where artists have autonomy and access to resources that were previously out of reach.
The platform is currently in development, with a website available for email sign-ups. Kesha and her team are actively seeking seed funding to bring Smash to fruition, aiming to launch a beta version in the coming months.
Implications for Africa’s Music Scene
While Smash is a global initiative, its potential impact on Africa’s burgeoning music industry is noteworthy. With a rich tapestry of musical talent and a rapidly growing digital infrastructure, African artists stand to benefit immensely from a platform that democratizes access to industry networks and resources. By eliminating traditional barriers, Smash could empower a new generation of African musicians to showcase their talents on a global stage.
Looking Ahead
As Kesha embarks on this entrepreneurial journey, the music industry watches with anticipation. Smash has the potential to redefine how artists connect and collaborate, fostering a more inclusive and equitable creative ecosystem. For African artists and industry professionals, this platform could serve as a catalyst for innovation and growth, aligning with the continent’s dynamic cultural landscape.
Blacksolvent News will continue to monitor developments surrounding Smash and its implications for Africa’s music industry.
