In a rapidly evolving digital era, Africa is emerging as a frontier of technological transformation. Few voices encapsulate this shift better than Kenya’s Wilfred Chege, Co-founder and CEO of Zendawa. A two-time founder with eight years of experience in venture building, He has dedicated his career to scaling startups and driving innovation in tech-driven businesses.
“My journey began when I was 16 years old under a company program run by JA Kenya. Ever since, I have continued to actively run my start-ups while mentoring other budding entrepreneurs,” Wilfred recalls.
This early exposure to the world of startups ignited a passion that has since driven him to build ventures that solve real-world problems.
His deep-rooted background in Business and IT, coupled with an unwavering commitment to impact-driven solutions, has positioned him as a formidable force in Africa’s startup ecosystem.
Bridging the Gaps: Africa’s Startup Challenges and Solutions
Despite its boundless potential, Africa’s startup landscape faces significant hurdles. “The most critical gaps include limited access to capital, fragmented infrastructure, and a challenging regulatory environment,” Wilfred explains. Early-stage funding remains a persistent bottleneck, while inefficiencies in logistics and financial services hinder scalability. These hurdles, however, are not insurmountable.
To navigate these challenges, Wilfred champions local investment, ecosystem collaborations, and innovation-friendly policies. He highlights the need for strategic partnerships with global tech leaders, emphasizing their role in accelerating growth by providing access to expertise and infrastructure.
“Many startups struggle with early-stage funding, while scaling is hampered by inefficiencies in logistics and financial services. To address this, we need more local investment, stronger ecosystem collaborations, and policies that support innovation. Strategic partnerships with global tech leaders can also accelerate growth by providing access to expertise and infrastructure,” he emphasizes.
What distinguishes thriving startups from struggling ventures? According to Wilfred, the answer lies in resilience, localized innovation, and strategic partnerships. “They adapt quickly to market realities, build solutions tailored to unique local challenges, and leverage partnerships for scale.” His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: focus on problem-solving, execution, and sustainability.
“A great idea is not enough—build a strong team, refine your business model, and iterate based on market feedback,” he advises.
Zendawa: Transforming Healthcare Through Tech
One of Wilfred’s most celebrated successes is Zendawa—a platform revolutionizing pharmaceutical accessibility and efficiency. “One of my biggest successes has been building a network of 820 pharmacies and serving 8,200+ monthly active users, making medicine more accessible,” he says.
This impact is further amplified by strategic partnerships, such as Microsoft for AI tools, and participation in initiatives like the IFC Connecting Africa’s Entrepreneurs study and the Visa Fintech Accelerator.
“I have also secured strategic partners such as Microsoft for AI tools. Being part of the IFC Connecting Africa’s Entrepreneurs study and selection for Visa Fintech Accelerator to drive financial inclusion for pharmacies through embedded finance are just but a few accomplishments I am most proud of,” Wilfred reflects.
This is not just about numbers; it’s about delivering essential medicines to those who need them most. “Our platform enables neighborhood pharmacies to sell online, ensuring last-mile delivery of essential medicines. AI-driven inventory management helps pharmacies optimize stock, reducing wastage and shortages. Additionally, embedded financial solutions, such as credit scoring, empower pharmacies with financing options,” he elaborates.
By digitizing operations, Zendawa bridges healthcare gaps, ensuring affordability and convenience for consumers.
The Game-Changers: Telepharmacy, AI, Blockchain, and Embedded Finance
Among Zendawa’s innovations, telepharmacy stands out as a potential game-changer. “Many patients struggle with limited access to qualified pharmacists, especially in rural areas. By integrating AI-powered consultations and remote prescription services, we can bridge this gap, ensuring patients receive timely and accurate medical advice,” Wilfred states. Beyond accessibility, telepharmacy alleviates congestion in physical pharmacies and hospitals, streamlining healthcare delivery across the continent.
“While all our innovations are impactful, telepharmacy holds the most potential for transforming healthcare in Africa,” Wilfred asserts. He understands the profound impact of limited access to qualified pharmacists, especially in rural areas.
Looking ahead, Wilfred identifies AI, blockchain, and embedded finance as pivotal drivers of sustainable development in Africa. “AI-powered solutions can optimize supply chains, improve diagnosis, and enhance business decision-making. Blockchain has the potential to ensure transparency in healthcare, agriculture, and finance. Embedded finance, like Zendawa’s credit-scoring model, enables underserved businesses to access funding.” These innovations are not just theoretical but are actively reshaping how African enterprises operate and expand.
The Role of Policy, Investment, and Collaboration
Innovation does not exist in a vacuum. Wilfred stresses the importance of a robust ecosystem where policy, investment, and collaboration work in tandem. “Governments must streamline regulations to ease business operations, while investors should focus on long-term value rather than short-term gains. Community-driven initiatives, like accelerators and mentorship programs, also play a vital role.” Zendawa’s own partnerships with industry leaders underscore how collaboration fuels scalable impact.
Furthermore, fostering innovation requires a supportive ecosystem. “Innovation thrives in an ecosystem where policy supports entrepreneurship, investors provide patient capital, and communities collaborate,” Wilfred highlights.
Having navigated the highs and lows of building a business in Africa, Wilfred shares invaluable insights. “Entrepreneurship in Africa requires adaptability, persistence, and strategic execution. One key lesson is that solving real problems matters more than chasing trends.” Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of operational efficiency in scaling ventures. “I’ve also learned that relationships—whether with partners, investors, or customers—are just as important as the business itself. My leadership style is shaped by these insights, emphasizing long-term vision, team empowerment, and data-driven decision-making.”
A Bold Vision for the Future
Where does Wilfred see African startups in the next decade? “Africa will produce several unicorns in healthcare, fintech, and AI-driven solutions over the next decade. As digital infrastructure improves and investment grows, startups will scale beyond local markets to global influence.”
As for his journey, Wilfred remains steadfast in his mission to scale Zendawa into a continental leader in AI-driven healthcare solutions. But his ambitions extend beyond personal success. “I aim to mentor the next generation of African founders, fostering an ecosystem where startups thrive and create lasting impact.”
Wilfred Chege’s work is more than just building a business; it’s about redefining Africa’s technological future. Through Zendawa, he is not only addressing critical healthcare challenges but also shaping a sustainable and scalable model for startup success. As Africa continues to rise as a tech powerhouse, innovators like him serve as the architects of a more inclusive, efficient, and transformative digital economy.
