African founders in the diaspora are making remarkable strides in the global tech and startup ecosystem. By leveraging their international exposure and deep understanding of Africa’s unique market challenges, they are building scalable solutions that attract significant global investment. Here are six standout African founders who have raised over $100 million in funding, redefining what it means to innovate for impact.
1. Olugbenga Agboola (Nigeria) – Flutterwave
Olugbenga “GB” Agboola, co-founder and CEO of Flutterwave, has transformed Africa’s fintech landscape by simplifying cross-border payments. Founded in 2016, the company has raised over $470 million, reaching a valuation of over $3 billion at its peak. Flutterwave’s platform enables global merchants to transact seamlessly across Africa, serving as a cornerstone for digital trade on the continent.
2. Tunde Kehinde (Nigeria) – Lidya
A serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Lidya, Tunde Kehinde has raised more than $13 million in equity and debt funding to provide small businesses in emerging markets with access to working capital. Before Lidya, Kehinde co-founded Jumia Nigeria and Africa Courier Express (ACE), both of which attracted multi-million-dollar investments. Collectively, his ventures have drawn well over $100 million in funding.
3. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (Nigeria) – Andela, Flutterwave
Iyinoluwa “E” Aboyeji is one of Africa’s most influential tech entrepreneurs. As co-founder of Andela and Flutterwave, Aboyeji has been involved in ventures that together have raised more than $600 million. Andela connects African software developers to global companies, while Flutterwave revolutionizes digital payments.
4. Ham Serunjogi (Uganda) – Chipper Cash
Ugandan-born Ham Serunjogi, co-founder and CEO of Chipper Cash, has raised over $300 million from investors including FTX and SVB Capital. The company provides fee-free cross-border payments across Africa and the U.S., empowering millions of users in the global remittance market.
5. Tayo Oviosu (Nigeria) – Paga
Founder and CEO of Paga, Tayo Oviosu has secured over $50 million in funding to expand his mobile payments company, connecting the unbanked to digital financial services. His influence extends across Africa’s fintech sector, making him one of the continent’s most respected innovators.
6. Adetayo Bamiduro and Chinedu Azodoh (Nigeria) – MAX
Co-founders of Metro Africa Xpress (MAX), Bamiduro and Azodoh have raised over $105 million to scale electric mobility and logistics solutions across Africa. Their mission-driven startup promotes clean transportation while empowering thousands of drivers and delivery agents.
These visionary founders exemplify the power of the African diaspora — blending global experience with a passion for solving Africa’s toughest challenges through innovation and impact.
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