The African Telecommunications Union (ATU) is advocating for harmonized spectrum management policies, regional standards, and open data practices across Africa. The organization emphasizes that true technological and economic progress can only be achieved through collective support from governments, universities, investors, and the broader industry.

John Omo, ATU’s Secretary General, made this statement during the announcement of Qualcomm Technologies Incorporated’s third annual Make in Africa (QMIA) Startup Mentorship Program at the virtual Make in Africa Finale 2025. Omo stressed that innovation is crucial for Africa’s future and that the ongoing efforts to harmonize regional standards are essential to fostering that innovation.

“We are working to harmonize spectrum management policies, regional standards, and open data practices, but we know that true progress relies on large-scale support. That’s why we call on governments, universities, investors, and industry to support these initiatives – and any endeavor that places African ingenuity at the forefront,” Omo remarked.

Elizabeth Migwalla, Vice President of International Government Affairs at Qualcomm Technologies, echoed Omo’s sentiments, emphasizing the role of innovative, tech-driven solutions in driving Africa’s social and economic transformation. She expressed her satisfaction with the ingenuity demonstrated by this year’s cohort of startups.

“This year’s cohort has demonstrated incredible ingenuity, transforming complex challenges into scalable, tech-driven solutions that will drive social and economic impact across the continent,” Migwalla noted.

The 2025 Qualcomm Make in Africa program provided support to 10 innovative startups from Nigeria, Kenya, Tunisia, Benin, and Senegal, all of which are leveraging technology to address key issues in healthcare, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and mobility. Over 400 applications were received from 19 African countries, showcasing remarkable talent and entrepreneurial spirit across the continent.

Farmer Lifeline, a startup from Kenya, was announced as the winner of the 2025 Wireless Reach Social Impact Fund for its impactful use of wireless technology to address agricultural challenges. The company’s small, solar-powered devices help farmers monitor their fields for pests and diseases, significantly improving crop yields and food security.

Spotlight on the Startups

The 2025 Qualcomm Make in Africa program supported a diverse range of startups, including:

• Aframend (Nigeria): Uses AI to explore African medicinal plants for drug discovery.
• AmalXR (Tunisia): Provides AI-powered virtual rehabilitation sessions for patients.
• Archeos (Benin): Automates fish farming with solar-powered sensors.
• ClimatrixAI (Nigeria): Uses AI to forecast weather and flood risks at a street level.
• Ecobees (Tunisia): Develops smart beehive monitors to protect bees and crops.
• Edulytics (Senegal): Utilizes AI in ultrasound devices for early detection of liver disease.
• Farmer Lifeline (Kenya): Provides solar-powered devices to scan fields for pests and diseases.
• Pollen Patrollers (Kenya): A women-led agritech startup using AI to protect bee colonies.
• Solar Freeze (Kenya): Offers solar-powered cold storage to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.
• Pixii Motors (Tunisia): Designs electric scooters with interchangeable smart batteries for urban mobility.

The Impact of Qualcomm’s Support

Qualcomm’s Make in Africa program provides crucial support to startups by offering equity-free mentorship, business coaching, engineering consultations, and intellectual property guidance. Through initiatives like L2Pro Africa, Qualcomm ensures that African founders have the resources they need to transform their innovative ideas into sustainable, market-ready solutions.

Erica Ciaraldi, Vice President of Wireless Reach, praised Farmer Lifeline for its dedication to agricultural resilience, highlighting the company’s potential to scale its impact across the continent and beyond.

“Farmer Lifeline stood out with its innovative small solar-powered devices that scan fields to detect pests and diseases. Their visionary approach is driving meaningful change for smallholder farmers and inspiring others across Africa,” Ciaraldi said.

Looking Ahead: Qualcomm Make in Africa 2026

Building on the success of previous years, Qualcomm is excited to launch the fourth edition of the Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Program in 2026, which will continue to support and accelerate the growth of tech-driven startups across Africa.

Conclusion

As the ATU continues its efforts to harmonize spectrum management policies, Qualcomm’s commitment to fostering innovation in Africa is demonstrated through its support of startups driving real change. With the growing success of initiatives like the Make in Africa program, it’s clear that Africa is poised to lead the world in tech innovation, provided it continues to receive the necessary support and collaboration from all sectors.