Marrakech is the center of attention as Laitify, DokitaEyes, and NourriMoi prepare to represent Togo at GITEX Africa 2025, the largest technology fair on the continent. These startups were chosen during the GITEX Africa Roadshow in Lomé, where ten Togolese startups showcased their innovations to a panel of experts on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
The selection process was challenging. Over the course of two hours, the finalists presented their projects to a jury led by Nvalaye Kourouma, Chief Digital Officer of Ecobank, alongside Jonas Daou, President of the Association of Large Enterprises of Togo (AGET). Ultimately, Laitify secured the top position, followed closely by DokitaEyes and NourriMoi, all of whom will travel to Morocco for the three-day event scheduled from April 14 to 16, 2025, in Marrakech.
Innovative Solutions for Development
Laitify emerged as the standout winner of the competition, pledging to transform dairy production management. Through its connected platform, it enables farmers to monitor cow health, track real-time milk production, and manage inventory effectively. This innovation has the potential to significantly impact the Togolese dairy sector.
DokitaEyes is dedicated to advancing digital health. Its mobile application empowers patients to digitize and centralize their medical records, streamlining care management and monitoring. Meanwhile, NourriMoi addresses the issue of food waste by collecting surplus food from supermarkets, restaurants, and producers to redistribute it to those in need. This initiative tackles both social and environmental challenges.
TogoTech Takes Charge of Startup Selection
This year marks a new development, as TogoTech has taken the lead in selecting Togolese startups for GITEX Africa. The organization, which currently encompasses 12 local startups, has succeeded the Togo Digital Agency (ATD) in this role.
The selection process was rigorous, with 50 applications submitted, resulting in 10 finalists and 3 selected. Laitify will receive comprehensive support, while DokitaEyes and NourriMoi will benefit from partial assistance.
Looking beyond GITEX, TogoTech, set to launch its activities in March, aims to serve as a catalyst for the local ecosystem, fostering collaboration among entrepreneurs on shared challenges such as labor law, taxation, and relationships with large corporations and public institutions. A key goal for TogoTech is to advocate for public authorities to expedite the implementation of the Startup Act, a legal framework that has been slow to materialize but would enhance the business environment for Togolese startups. Additionally, TogoTech is in talks with partners like Amazon and Microsoft to organize technology days and technical workshops.
A Ticket to the International
For Edem Adjamagbo, GITEX Africa represents more than a mere trade exhibition; it serves as a platform for launching new initiatives. Last year, the participation from Togo proved to be advantageous. For instance, Semoa, the startup founded by Edem Adjamagbo, secured a partnership with Attijariwafa Bank, which subsequently led to in-depth discussions with the Société Ivoirienne de Banque (SIB), the Ivorian branch of the Cherifian group, regarding the implementation of a QR code-based digital payment system.
This year, the stakes remain equally high. In the face of intensifying regional competition, Laitify, DokitaEyes, and NourriMoi are tasked with showcasing Togolese innovation, attracting international investors and partners, and, importantly, learning from global best practices in innovation.
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However, for this venture to succeed, securing funding is essential. While TogoTech and ATD are contributing their efforts, the financial requirements are still considerable. There is a call to action for institutions and donors to support additional Togolese startups in seizing this valuable opportunity.
