By combining their expertise and resources, the founding partners will provide training, mentoring, and funding opportunities to young African entrepreneurs. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and seed capital funding, participants will be equipped to develop innovative green businesses that tackle environmental challenges.
The initiative will initially focus on Kenya and leverage the partners' connections with government, private sector, and youth networks. It will provide a green-focused curriculum, engage expert trainers, facilitate mentorship connections, and offer seed capital funding.
Tony O. Elumelu, founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, emphasizes the importance of empowering young Africans to address the climate crisis through entrepreneurship. The goal is to create sustainable businesses and generate green jobs, ensuring that the next generation is not left behind in the transition to a green economy.
The pilot waste management project in Kenya, supported by IKEA Foundation, will train and economically empower 1,000 youth with new or existing green businesses. Similar pilots will take place in Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal, and Morocco, training at least 1,600 young people, providing over $1 million in seed funding, and creating at least 8,000 jobs.
Per Heggenes, CEO of IKEA Foundation, highlights the urgent need to address job scarcity and finite resources by creating green jobs and sustainable practices. By transforming waste into value and developing viable green jobs, young Africans can contribute to sustainable economic growth within planetary boundaries.
Kevin Frey, CEO of Generation Unlimited, emphasizes the potential of young African agripreneurs to drive an agricultural boom. Through skills development, mentorship, and seed funding, these youth can create sustainable economic growth in Africa and beyond.
This strategic partnership aims to create lasting environmental impact and sustainable job opportunities for African youth. By empowering young entrepreneurs and addressing pressing environmental challenges, the BeGreen Africa initiative is set to make a meaningful difference in Africa's future.
