Africa’s consumer market is shifting rapidly. And at the center of that shift are entrepreneurs who are rethinking the products people rely on every single day, food, beauty, homecare, and personal essentials.
They are cutting waste, improving quality, and building brands that truly understand the modern African shopper. Their work is not loud, but it’s changing how millions live, spend, and experience daily comfort.
Here are the top 5 African entrepreneurs leading this change:
— Mabel Suglo (Ghana): Founder of Eco‑Shoes / Dignified Wear, Suglo turns discarded car tyres into durable footwear and accessories. Her business empowers people with disabilities by providing meaningful employment while tackling environmental waste.
— Thato Kgatlhanye (South Africa): Co‑founder of Rethaka (Repurpose Schoolbags), Kgatlhanye created schoolbags from recycled plastic that charge via solar panels — giving children light to study after dark and reducing reliance on dangerous kerosene.
— Adejoke Lasisi (Nigeria): Founder and CEO of Planet 3R / Jokelinks Weaving School, Lasisi weaves fashion products from textile waste, turning discarded materials into stylish, usable items and promoting circular design.
— Ciiru Waithaka (Kenya): Founder of FunKidz, Waithaka produces sustainable, locally-made school furniture using recycled timber, showing how everyday infrastructure like desks and chairs can be eco‑friendly and empowering.
— Nnaemeka Ikegwuonu (Nigeria): Founder of ColdHubs, Ikegwuonu provides solar-powered, low-cost cold storage to smallholder farmers. This extends the life of perishable goods, reduces food waste, and makes fresh produce more reliably available in local markets.
These entrepreneurs prove that innovation isn’t just about high-tech gadgets, it can start with the basics. By rethinking everyday products, they’re making life better and more sustainable for millions.
Listing is based on African entrepreneurs who design or manufacture everyday consumer products with a clear social or environmental mission. Criteria included measurable impact, innovation, and active contribution as of 2025.
Image Credit: Reuters
