How is startup funding evolving in Africa and the Middle East in Week 35, 2025?

This week in the Middle East and Africa, startup funding activities showcased the region’s resilience and growth. Despite a dip to $70.6 million from last week’s $157 million, the diversity of investments reflects strong investor confidence. Leading the way, UAE’s Holo secured $22 million to enhance digital mortgage solutions across the GCC. In fintech, Maalexi obtained a $20 million shariah-compliant credit facility to bolster food security in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Riyadh’s Zetta Technologies expanded with a $12 million Series A, while Cointel raised $7.4 million to advance AI-driven crypto education tools. In Africa, Ghana’s Complete Farmer received $5 million to support smallholder farming, and Kenya’s Poa Internet gained $4 million to increase broadband access. Additionally, Saudi’s Sheba Joy and South Africa’s StraTech are expanding in gaming and fintech, respectively. Despite fluctuating totals, the startup ecosystem in these regions demonstrates its depth and determination to progress.