25 Years of Impact: Reflecting on UVU Africa’s Journey and Vision for the Future

Originally established in 1999 as the Cape IT Initiative and Bandwidth Barn, UVU Africa has grown from a local endeavour into a Pan-African powerhouse that’s supporting entrepreneurs in 16 African countries, with a physical presence in five cities across two countries. 

The early years saw UVU Africa pioneering and becoming Africa’s first tech incubator. “We were young, and we were emerging out of isolation from the apartheid era, it was an optimistic time during the late 90s. The world was racing ahead, and we wanted to become global citizens,” reflects Raven Naidoo, one of the founding members of UVU Africa and a current member of the board. 

The early architects’ vision laid a strong foundation for this non-profit and impact-driven organisation to become a beacon of hope and progress, setting a precedent for tech-driven development in Africa.  As UVU Africa celebrates 25 years of impact, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the transformative impact it has had on people’s lives. 

25 Years of Impact: Reflecting on UVU Africa’s Journey and Vision for the Future 1
During UVU Africa’s 25 Years of Impact celebrations, Marietjie Engelbrecht, Group Chief of Staff, moderated an engaging panel discussion. Founding members Raven Naidoo and Joshin Raghubar, alongside Ian Merrington, UVU Africa Group CEO, shared insights into the organisation’s journey—reflecting on its origins, milestones achieved, and the vision for the future.

 

The Impact: Transforming Lives, Shaping Futures

UVU Africa’s milestones speak volumes about its impact. Over R1 billion in funding to benefit learners and SMMEs has been secured and delivered since inception. In the past five years alone, UVU Africa directed R56 million in grant funding to SMMEs and leveraged an additional R300 million in matched funding, achieving an impressive ratio of R1.50 for every Rand of original funding. 

“A couple of months back, we launched our Bioeconomy Hub in Kigali, Rwanda and we’ve already attracted R35 million worth of investment into biotechnology. I think this is phenomenal because we must go out there and find funding and we all know how tough the current economy is,” said Ian Merrington, UVU Africa’s Group CEO. 

The impact of UVU Africa’s work is evident in the countless success stories from learners and entrepreneurs whose lives were changed. From closing educational gaps with innovative digital tools to supporting female-founded startups, UVU Africa’s initiatives are driving meaningful change.  

The Transition: Expanding Horizons, Amplifying Impact 

UVU Africa leverages cluster theory to accelerate the growth of technology sectors, paving sustainable pathways to meaningful careers and entrepreneurial success within digital economies. By prioritising critical enablers such as infrastructure, workforce development, access to capital, and entrepreneurial support, UVU Africa fosters an interconnected ecosystem where innovation flourishes. This transformative impact is achieved through five specialised enabling interventions:

  • CAPACITI was born out of a commitment to inclusive growth in South Africa’s digital economy. This enabling intervention was established in 2010 to create opportunities for young, underutilised talent and connect them with industry-driven pathways. 
  • UVU Bio was established as a specialised incubator to support biotech start-ups and SMMEs across the continent. By launching Africa’s first specialised open-access laboratory, UVU Bio has created a platform that combines critical infrastructure with access to world-class expertise, tailored incubation programmes, and skills development. 
  • Injini is a non-profit dedicated to improving educational outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa. Founded in 2017 by UVU Africa, it is the continent’s only EdTech-focused accelerator. Through its programs, research, events and advisory services, Injini supports EdTech entrepreneurs, fosters innovation, and drives collaboration to enhance education’s quality, accessibility, and relevance. 
  • Launched in 2006, UVU Accelerate has become a key driver of innovation and economic growth across Africa, providing tailored support for entrepreneurs and tech start-ups poised for scale. Recognising entrepreneurs as a cornerstone of economic development, UVU Accelerate enables businesses to achieve sustainable growth and create meaningful impact. 
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Through these enabling interventions, UVU Africa is empowering businesses and individuals to succeed in an ever-changing landscape.

The Future: Scaling for Continental Transformation
Over the years, UVU Africa has consistently delivered, and is poised for even greater achievements in the next 25 years. By 2050, one in four people on the planet will be African and UVU Africa plans to scale its proven playbook across 10 African cities within the next decade. This will set the stage for transformative impact that will shape the continent’s future. 

The story of UVU Africa is one of transformation, inspiration, and boundless possibilities. With 25 years of impact behind it and a bold vision for the future, the organisation is ready to lead Africa into an era of unprecedented growth and innovation. 

Watch the highlights from our 25 Anniversary Event below.

Fiona Tabraham

Fiona Tabraham is a strategic workforce development expert with a career founded on a resolute commitment to inclusivity, talent nurturing, and societal impact. Chief Executive of CAPACITI Digital Career Accelerator, Fiona’s passion for equity has charted pathways across numerous organisations, guiding bespoke Talent Initiatives, Future Leadership Development Programs, and transformative Career Pathway Development. Her tenure at Network Rail bore inclusive talent strategies, STEM advocacy, and innovative Graduate, Apprentice, and Internship initiatives. A trusted partner to a number of governmental, corporate and impact driven entities, Fiona empowers individuals and organisations, fostering diverse recruitment practices and innovative talent strategies. Fiona’s impact transcends the tech sector, positioning her as a leading voice for inclusive digital career initiatives.