Why We Believe in African Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurship is rapidly transforming Africa, emerging as both a powerful force for innovation and a driving engine of economic growth. The continent is witnessing an unprecedented surge in entrepreneurial activity, reshaping industries and unlocking new opportunities. 

At Oxano Capital, we believe in the potential of African entrepreneurs for several key reasons: 

Demographic favor 

As of March 24, 2025, Africa's population stands at approximately 1.5 billion, with a median age of just 19.3 years4, according to Worldometer’s analysis of the latest United Nations data. By 2050, this number is projected to soar to 2.5 billion, with more than half of the population under the age of 25.5 While this demographic shift presents significant challenges in job creation and economic development, it also unlocks immense opportunities. With the right support, Africa’s youth can harness their creativity and innovation to drive sustainable solutions, transforming these challenges into avenues for growth and prosperity. 

Informal sector / untapped market opportunity  

Nearly 83% of employment in Africa and 85% in Sub-Saharan Africa is informal, providing opportunities for a significant portion of the continent's young job seekers. Historically, policy narratives in Africa often overlooked informal economies or even viewed them as a threat to formal sectors. However, this shift has opened up a unique opportunity for Africa's youth to showcase their creativity, leading to a rise in entrepreneurial ventures across the continent. As more young people venture into business, the informal sector is becoming a vibrant hub for innovation and growth. 

Untapped Resource  

Africa's abundant natural resources, including 30% of the world's mineral reserves, 8% of global natural gas reserves, and 7.5% of the world's oil reserves, present significant investment opportunities. Additionally, the continent's renewable energy sector is rapidly expanding, with the potential to generate 10 terawatts of solar power—more than double the current global energy demand. Investing in these sectors not only offers substantial financial returns but also drives sustainable development, positioning Africa as a key player in the global energy transition.6 

Supportive Environment  

A strong and supportive ecosystem is essential for driving entrepreneurship and innovation. Recognizing this, African governments and international organizations have implemented initiatives such as tax incentives, funding access, and the creation of innovation hubs and incubators to empower startups. The growing presence of venture capital firms and angel investors further strengthens the ecosystem, providing crucial financial support to help promising businesses scale and thrive. 

Cultural and Creative Industries 

Africa's diverse cultural heritage and thriving creative industries serve as a catalyst for entrepreneurship. From music and art to fashion and film, the continent's rich traditions inspire innovative business ventures. By tapping into these unique cultural assets, entrepreneurs can develop products and services that appeal to both local and global markets. With growing international recognition of African creativity, this sector presents immense opportunities for economic growth and global influence 

At Oxano Capital, our belief in African entrepreneurs goes beyond providing capital, we invest in their vision, resilience, and capacity to drive meaningful change. By supporting them, we are not just funding businesses; we are actively shaping the future of the continent.