New York City - July 17, 2024  

The United Nations Development Programme and the timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation unveiled the premiere cohort of fintech startups at the launch of the timbuktoo Fintech Hub in Lagos, Nigeria. These innovative startups, chosen from over 800 applicants across 40 African countries, represent a diverse range of fintech solutions addressing critical development challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The selected startups span various sectors, including financial inclusion, agriculture, healthcare, education, clean energy, and climate action. Their innovative solutions aim to tackle pressing issues such as poverty reduction, economic growth, and reduced inequalities across the continent. These innovations are solution driven enterprises with alignment to the Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 1 - No Poverty, SDG 2 - Zero Hunger, SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4 - Quality Education, SDG - 5 Gender equality, SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities, SDG 13 - Climate Action, SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals.

Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Guardian of the timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, at the launch of pan-African Fintech Hub emphasized the transformative power of innovation during the unveiling ceremony. "In the last 5 years in Nigeria, we have seen dramatic proof of the power of innovation. It is this energy, this spirit of innovation, that will power the Africa of our dreams".