The JA Africa Company of the Year (ACOY) competition brings together some of the brightest young entrepreneurs from across the continent. These student-led companies are not only building businesses but also taking ACT: Action for Climate Transformation through innovations that tackle environmental, social, and economic challenges in their communities.
From green manufacturing and circular economy solutions to climate-smart agriculture and renewable energy, these teams represent Africa’s next generation of problem-solvers.
Below are the companies heading to Abuja, Nigeria, this December to represent their nations at ACOY 2025.
Kwakhanya PlantIQ – Eswatini
A solar-powered, AI-enabled irrigation system supporting climate-smart agriculture by conserving water and improving crop yields.
XeroLabs – Ghana
Transforms harmful carbon soot from vehicle exhaust into high-quality ink, turning pollution into a sustainable product line.
Plantura – Mauritius
A plant-based air purification system enhanced with smart sensors, housed in a 3D-printed, eco-friendly casing for cleaner indoor environments.
SmartGenix – Nigeria
SmartGenix has developed a precision agriculture drone designed to reduce costs, save time and labour, and enhance climate action through sustainable, efficient farming practices.
AgroHaven – Rwanda
An IoT-powered aeroponics solution that grows vegetables without soil while simultaneously purifying indoor air, tackling food insecurity and environmental health.
Green Earth – South Africa
Creators of the Solar Pouch, a portable 3D-printed solar charger advancing clean energy adoption and affordable renewable power access.
Renewablock – Uganda
Transforms plastic waste into durable construction blocks and agricultural by-products, promoting recycling, reducing pollution, and supporting green construction.
Support Africa’s Young Innovators
These teams are redefining what youth-led innovation looks like across Africa, with bold ideas rooted in purpose, resilience, and climate-conscious impact.
As they prepare for ACOY 2025, you can support their journey:
Watch their commercials on YouTube and vote for your favourite by viewing, liking, and commenting. Every engagement counts toward the Public Choice Award and helps amplify the vision of Africa’s future leaders.
Meet the young innovators powering ACT, Action for Climate Transformation, at this year’s Africa Company of the Year Competition.
From precision agriculture drones to solar tech, waste recycling, and AI-driven irrigation, these student companies are solving real problems across the continent.
