The shifting landscape of investment in Africa was at the forefront of discussions during the Africa VC Forum, organised by the London Venture Capital Network (LVCN) on April 24, 2025, at 240 Blackfriars Road, London.
This half-day event brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and tech aficionados to examine the ever-changing African technology and venture capital scene. The forum aimed to promote meaningful connections and conversations on the opportunities, challenges, and key figures shaping the African startup ecosystem.
Several themes were explored, shedding light on the diverse conditions and dynamics investors face in Africa. A critical issue identified by panellists was the fragmented nature of the African market. Differences in culture, regulations, government policies, and market dynamics mean that a one-size-fits-all approach is often ineffective.
Felix Ochefu, Founder of Kahana, further pointed out that a lack of technical expertise among builders, particularly those who are inexperienced, can stifle development across the continent.
Samuel Ubido, Chairman of Techinnovate Group, noted that replicating solutions from Europe is challenging in Africa based on contextual environmental challenges, cultural mismatches, and varying levels of acceptability. Felix Ochefu, Founder of Kahana, stressed that lack of technical expertise among builders, particularly those who are inexperienced, can stifle development across the continent.
Despite these challenges, it was clear that Africa's market is ripe for investment. Investors were encouraged to look beyond the hurdles and search for the diamond in the rough. Niama El Bassunie, Managing Partner of the The Baobab Network, underscored that managing expectations is crucial, but commitment and resilience are paramount for investors keen on Africa.
Also, founders, were urged to deviate from a valuation-centric mindset and focus on delivering results with limited resources.
Gbite Oduneye, Managing Partner of ODBA, stressed that venture capitalists in Africa are now more interested in the background of founders and their path to profitability. As such, the focus has shifted from the product itself to tangible cash flow and business sustainability.
There is a clamour for Africa to look inward for capital. Several venture capitalists at the event noted the growing difficulty of raising external funds and stressed that the continent should focus on funding its own ideas and products. Local capital, they argued, is more attuned to the unique challenges and opportunities of the region, offering greater insight and influence to help businesses grow.
Linda Scott, the Namibian High Commissioner to the UK and NI, reinforced the need for local capitql, stressing that the Namibian government was open to technology investment as a means of stimulating the country's ecosystem.
The Africa VC Forum provided invaluable insights for all participants, furthering connections that will contribute to the growth of Africa’s tech ecosystem. LVCN’s continued support for this development is evident, as the forum successfully highlighted both the potential and the challenges of investing in Africa’s dynamic market.
