If you’re passionate about artificial intelligence and natural language processing and you want to push the boundaries of audio classification technology, we invite you to participate in this competition.

Participants in this competition will develop machine learning models capable of accurately classifying audio recordings of basic directional commands spoken in Ewè (“up,” “down,” “stop,” “go,” “left,” “right,” “yes,” and “no.”)  The solutions created in this challenge will be used in a navigation voice assistant for visually impaired individuals who speak Ewè. 

Navigating public spaces is a significant challenge for visually impaired individuals globally. Being able to interpret and respond to spoken directions supports the safety and independence of these individuals. With 5 million speakers in mainly Ghana, Togo, and Benin, Ewè is an important language in West Africa. However, like many African languages, it remains underrepresented in natural language processing and speech recognition technologies. The Ewè audio classification challenge not only addresses a pressing social issue but also highlights the importance of linguistic diversity in AI development.

Challenge details:

– Dataset: Participants will receive access to a carefully curated dataset of Ewè audio samples.

– Task: Build models that can accurately classify Ewè audio clips into categories. 

– Evaluation: Models will be judged based on classification accuracy.

Prizes: 

• 1st place: $500
• 2nd place: $300
• 3rd place: $200

How to get involved:

1. Register: Visit the Zindi website to sign up and form your team.

2. Access resources: Download the Ewè audio dataset.

3. Develop: Build and train your audio classification models.

4. Submit: Upload your final model and results for evaluation before the closing date on the 29th of September.

5. Attend: Join us for the awards ceremony and knowledge-sharing sessions at the Moonshot by Techcabal conference, on the 9th of October.

Who should participate in the Ewè audio classification challenge?

We welcome participants from all backgrounds, including:

• Data scientists and machine learning engineers
• Linguists and language technology specialists
• Computer science students and researchers
• AI enthusiasts with a passion for language preservation

Why participate?

By participating in this challenge you will be;

• Harnessing the power of technology for social good.
• Contributing to the preservation and digitisation of an important African language.
• Gaining hands-on experience working with languages and audio data.
• Showcasing your skills to potential employers and collaborators in the AI industry.
• Networking with fellow participants and experts in the field.

The TechCabal Ewè audio classification challenge is a step towards a more inclusive digital future. The models and insights developed during this competition will facilitate the creation of language learning tools and support the evolution of speech recognition technology.

Join us on this exciting journey to harness the power of AI for linguistic diversity and cultural preservation.

Moonshot by TechCabal is TechCabal’s flagship annual event that convenes audacious players in the African tech ecosystem to share ideas and celebrate innovation. As a sponsor, 54 Collective will help shape the conference agenda, fostering critical discussions on technology’s future and its impact on African businesses.

54 Collective is a venture capital firm supporting early-stage African startups across various sectors. The firm manages a $40 million fund aimed at backing 105 venture-bankable startups over five years.

54 Collective’s investment strategy includes:

• Up to $250,000 in early-stage startups, with board representation
• Non-dilutive capital of up to $150,000 for startups
• An additional $150,000 non-dilutive capital for women founders

With a portfolio exceeding 70 African startups, 54 Collective’s Moonshot sponsorship reaffirms its commitment to empowering African entrepreneurs and fostering continental business growth and prosperity.

Register for the 2024 Moonshot by TechCabal conference here and join us in shaping Africa’s technological and commercial future.

Established in 2019 by Uzoma Dozie, Sparkle MFB is dedicated to democratising access to financial solutions for both personal and business needs. The bank is bullish on empowering Nigerians by providing them with tools for business growth and wealth creation. In less than five years, Sparkle has emerged as a leading fintech innovator by introducing a diverse portfolio of consumer and business products, powered by cutting-edge technology and exceptional user experiences.

For personal banking, Sparkle provides products including savings, bill payments, and money transfers. The bank also recently launched Sparkle Loans, a small-interest loan product. Sparkle business provides inventory and invoice management, a payment gateway, tax advisory, payroll, and employee management solutions for businesses. These robust offerings are made possible through strategic partnerships with industry leaders including Visa, Microsoft, and PwC Nigeria.

With $3.1M raised so far, over 260,000 customers, and $420+ million transactions processed, the bank has solidified its status as a trusted platform for secure and accessible financial services. 

Speaking on this partnership, Olanrewaju Odunowo head of TechCabal Insights says, “Sparkle’s support for Moonshot as a platinum sponsor is very much appreciated. Uzoma Dozie is one of our country’s leading banking industry pioneers. What he and his team have done at Sparkle wrapping tech around core banking products, is genuinely a generational shift in how Nigerians move money for both business or personal use. Sparkle’s wealth of experience in both technology and banking will power impactful conversations throughout the conference. We couldn’t be more excited to have them on board.”

Commenting further, Queeneth Igbokwe, marketing and communications lead at Sparkle said, “We are excited to partner with TechCabal to host one of Africa’s largest events bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and investors in tech. Moonshot aligns perfectly with Sparkle’s mission to redefine commerce in Nigeria by seamlessly integrating financial services, business and lifestyle solutions to enable individuals and SMEs to realise their full potential. At Sparkle, we are more than just a bank; we leverage data, technology, and the values of trust and transparency to democratise access to information and build impactful solutions. Through this partnership, we look forward to driving pivotal discussions that will shape Africa’s financial and technological future.” 

This partnership represents a significant milestone for both institutions. By sponsoring Moonshot, Sparkle underscores its commitment to fostering financial inclusion and economic growth on the continent.

Join us at Moonshot by TechCabal on the 9th – 10th of October, 2024 and take part in shaping Africa’s financial and technological future.

Scheduled for October 9-10, 2024, at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, the event aims to unite over 3,500 of Africa’s brightest tech minds to provide audacious solutions to the continent’s most pressing challenges.

Moonshot 2.0 will focus on critical themes around fintech, commerce, the creator economy, renewable energy, climate change, tech policy, AI, and cloud infrastructure. 

“We’re thrilled to partner with Raenest for Moonshot 2024,” said Tomiwa Aladekomo, CEO of TechCabal. “Moonshot is more than just a conference; it’s a platform where Africa’s innovators, business leaders, and entrepreneurs converge to network, collaborate, and exchange ideas that will shape the future of the continent and beyond. We’re excited to partner with one of the innovative organizations shaping the future of financial services on the continent.”

Founded in 2022 by Richard Oyome, Sodruldeen Mustapha, and Victor Alade, Raenest has been at the heart of helping African businesses manage global expenses and receive funds efficiently, resolving problems around contracting, invoicing and payments. Users can own US checking accounts, transfer money to over 50 countries, create up to 20 currency-based wallets, and manage spending with virtual cards, effectively streamlining global financial operations for remote African workers and startups.

Raenest also runs Geegpay, a growing digital platform for workers in the African gig economy. It ensures that creators, freelancers, and knowledge workers can be compensated for their services without worrying about the restrictions that come with cross-border payments.

“Partnering with TechCabal for Moonshot 2.0 is an exciting opportunity for Raenest to further our mission of empowering African talent and businesses on a global scale through access to international finance,” said Victor Alade, CEO of Raenest. “We believe this collaboration will not only drive the conversation about the digital economy but also highlight the innovative solutions African tech companies are bringing to the world. We’re eager to showcase how our global multicurrency platform facilitates seamless global payments for Africans, and we’re confident that Moonshot 2.0 will be a catalyst for transformative change across the continent.”

Moonshot 2.0 promises to be epochal, featuring panel discussions, workshops, pitching competitions and networking opportunities. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, investors, and innovators from across the continent.

Join us for this landmark event by securing your tickets now and being part of shaping the future of technology and payments in Africa.

Sabi is a major infrastructure provider in B2B commerce for goods and services on the continent with a simple vision of providing a solutions-oriented approach to solving commercial challenges. Since its launch in 2020, it has become a critical player in the global supply chain with a unique focus on logistics, sustainability and compliance, and financial services, ensuring that the sourcing and distribution of goods across markets are as seamless as possible. 

Founded by Ademola Adesina (President) and Anu Adasolum (CEO), Sabi hit $1bn in gross market value (GMV) in 2023 with a valuation of about $300m. It has also raised over $60m in funding for its operations, adopting an asset-light strategy that prioritises agility, managing complexities, and scalability for effective resource management. 

Primarily headquartered in Nigeria with a presence in South Africa, it has made inroads into Senegal and Tanzania, boasting over 250,000 registered users in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), agriculture, and minerals sectors. 

We’re excited by Sabi’s renewed partnership with TechCabal as it highlights its earnest commitment to excellence. Join us for this landmark event on October 9-10, 2024, at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos, Nigeria. Secure your tickets now and be part of shaping the future of technology and commerce in Africa.

LMUN is a leading platform for youth engagement in international affairs. Established in 2016, it has grown to become one of the most respected Model UN conferences in Africa, attracting delegates from across the continent and beyond. The conference brings together young leaders and aspiring diplomats to discuss and propose solutions to global issues to foster diplomacy, cooperation, and understanding.

Key Highlights of LMUN 2024

1. Theme: This year’s theme, “Youth at the Forefront: Catalyzing Global Change through Active Participation,” focuses on the pivotal role of youth in driving global change through active involvement and leadership.

2. Committee Sessions: Delegates will engage in rigorous debates and negotiations in various committees, including the General Assembly, Security Council, and other specialized agencies. Topics will range from climate change to global health, reflecting current international challenges and prospects.

3. LMUN Idea Fair: Delegates who register for the conference can apply to the Idea Fair competition to win an N300,000 grant to fund their project-based solutions for challenges related to SDGs 1, 3, and 8. On the second day of the conference, delegates will present their solutions to the conference attendees and a panel of judges.

4. Workshops and Training: The conference will offer a series of workshops inviting prominent speakers from diverse fields, including international relations, diplomacy, and development. These experts will share insights and inspire delegates to think critically and act effectively.

5. Networking Opportunities: Participants will have the opportunity to connect with peers, mentors, and professionals from various backgrounds, fostering lasting relationships and expanding their global networks.

6. Pledge Drive: LMUN is partnering with Isrina Schools, an initiative with a mission to offer underprivileged children access to quality basic education at no or heavily subsidized rates. They are inviting members of the society to sponsor the conference and, in turn, change lives. 

“For us, LMUN is about empowering young people to become more confident and socially conscious. Our goal is for every participant to leave this conference with the conviction that they can make a meaningful impact on the world,” said Treasure Okure, the Secretary General of the 2024 Conference.

Participants can register for LMUN 2024 through the official website. The registration fee includes access to all conference sessions, materials, feeding, and social events. Flexible payment options, including installment plans, are available to ensure that as many students as possible can participate.

By engaging with the world and its issues from a problem-solving perspective, the conference aims to contribute in raising a generation of young leaders dedicated to shaping the world they want to see. 

For more information on LMUN, please visit their website or contact info@lmun.ng or asg1@lmun.ng. 

Stay connected with LMUN online:

• Website: https://lmun.ng/ 
• Twitter: https://x.com/lmun_ng 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lmun_ng/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lagos-model-united-nations 

Lagos, August 12, 2024 — Ecobank, the pan-African Bank, has announced that its first-ever Fintech Challenge semifinal event will be held in Lagos, Nigeria. Scheduled for Wednesday, August 14, the hybrid event will take place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) Lagos.

The 2024 “Ecobank Fintech Challenge had over 1,550 applications from 70 countries from which only 40 semi-finalists were shortlisted. After reviewing their applications, a jury has selected the top finalists who will be announced at the semi-final event. They will compete in the Grand Finale for a $50,000 prize and a spot in the Ecobank Fintech Fellowship program which would provide a major boost for their innovations.

Ecobank Fintech Fellows have access to numerous opportunities through collaborations with Ecobank and its partners, potentially including an opportunity to integrate their solutions with Ecobank, opening doors to potential product launches within Ecobank’s expansive 35-country Pan-African network. Selected fintechs may become Pan-African service partners within the Bank’s ecosystem. Fellows receive exclusive access to Ecobank’s cutting-edge APIs, enabling them to test and develop their products for the Pan-African market, and they also have priority access to Ecobank’s Venture Capital partners for funding exploration.

Djiba Diallo, Senior Fintech Advisor, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) remarked “I am impressed by the quality of this year’s applications. I recognize the African talents and innovations. I also congratulate the semi-finalists and look forward to an interesting semi-final event in Lagos, Nigeria where we will announce the top finalists.”

Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director/Regional Executive of Ecobank Nigeria said he is glad that Nigerian affiliate was hosting the semi-finals, *announcing an inspiring and thought-provoking panel of discussion with the Nigerian fintech community as a prelude to the hybrid event*.

According to him, “Hosting this year’s Fintech Challenge semifinal is a great honour for us. We are thrilled to welcome prominent fintech players from across the continent and are particularly proud of the strong participation from Nigerian fintechs. Their efforts contribute to Africa’s financial integration and economic growth. We invite Nigerian fintechs to take advantage of the panel discussions, while also using the opportunity to network and explore partnership opportunities that will support their growth”.

The Ecobank Fintech Challenge, designed in partnership with international advisory firm Konfidants, is supported by a range of partners including Huawei, Proparco, TechCabal, BlueSpace, Afrilabs, Africa Fintech Network, MEST Africa, Naija Startups, Expand in Africa, and Founders Africa. 

LemFi is a leading financial technology platform revolutionising how people move their money globally. LemFi serves over 1 million customers in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada through its innovative products and services. Currently, LemFi supports international payments to over 20 countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe. 

LemFi is set to enter the Latin American diaspora market following recent expansions, starting with Brazil and Mexico.

Thousands of Latin Americans venture to North America and Europe every year for different living opportunities. One persistent challenge for these individuals is accessing reliable, fast, cost-effective financial services, a problem LemFi is already solving.

This leading region for global remittances, sees Mexico as the top recipient, with Brazil just a little behind. LemFi solves this problem through the LemFi mobile app; within minutes of signing up, customers can send money to their home countries at the best exchange rates, directly to the recipient in various payout methods and at zero transaction fee.

“Since our inception in 2020, we have been committed to reshaping how people move their money internationally,” says Rebeca Wignall, LemFi’s General Counsel.

“Our expansion to serve the Latin American diaspora underscores our global growth ambitions and our desire to be the choice remittance platform for everyone, everywhere”, she concludes.

With a recent launch in the United States, a US$33 Million Series A raise, recent expansions to China, India, and Pakistan, and planned expansions to other diverse markets, LemFi has proven to have the team, resources, and strategies to deliver on the promise of reliability, cost-effectiveness, and value, helping the Latin American diaspora be more financially connected to home.

LemFi invites everyone who needs to stay in touch with their homes in Mexico, Brazil, and beyond to experience innovative products and services through its Mobile App, which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store, the Apple App Store, or the website.

LemFi will continue to expand to diverse markets and innovate, delivering easy-to-use and cost-effective ways to move money safely across the globe.

To learn more about LemFi, visit the website at www.lemfi.com, for enquiries, reach out to legal@lemfi.com.

About LemFi

LemFi is the preferred international payment app for everyone. Send money to India, China, Pakistan, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and 16 other countries. Receive and manage your money without stress. 

For more information, please visit: https://www.lemfi.com/ 

As the cryptocurrency landscape evolves, BlockDAG emerges as a promising new player. Touted as the leading crypto presale coin, BlockDAG is poised to become a pivotal part of the future for savvy investors. Join us as we trace the remarkable path of Bitcoin’s early backers and consider BlockDAG’s potential to mimic these success stories.

Bitcoin Success Story: From $1,000 to $25 Million  

Back in 2013, when Bitcoin was a burgeoning digital currency trading at a mere $12 per coin, a university dropout from New York recognized its potential. Investing his $1,000 in savings into Bitcoin, this audacious step, driven by his belief in cryptocurrency’s future impact, quickly proved lucrative. Despite skepticism from peers, he foresaw a disruptive technology set to transform finance.

Over the following eight years, as Bitcoin’s value soared to a peak of $64,000 in 2021, this steadfast investor maintained his hold on 400 Bitcoins. His initial investment expanded to an astonishing $25 million, enabling him to secure his financial future, delve into new ventures, back startups, and grow his crypto holdings.

His experience underscores the transformative potential of early investments in groundbreaking technologies, a lesson he eagerly shares with prospective investors considering BlockDAG.

BlockDAG: The Crypto with a 30,000x ROI Forecast  

BlockDAG is rapidly emerging as a standout cryptocurrency, gaining significant traction within the digital currency community. Its distinctive approach to security, scalability, and decentralization successfully tackles the blockchain trilemma, setting it apart from others. BlockDAG’s remarkable presale achievements are highlighted by its collection of $57.6 million in funds, with the coin’s value soaring from $0.001 in its initial batch to $0.014 in the 19th batch, demonstrating robust confidence from early investors.

The strategic planning behind BlockDAG’s growth is evident as it has delivered a 1300% increase in coin value during its presale stages. Future projections estimate the coin’s price could reach $30 by 2030, transforming a $1,000 investment today into more than $2 million, which equates to a potential 30,000x return on investment. To date, BlockDAG has sold 12 billion coins, indicating substantial community support and faith in its future.

Industry specialists are positive about its trajectory, predicting that BlockDAG’s value could climb to $30 by 2030. This forecast points to a promising investment landscape, suggesting that getting involved with BlockDAG early on could result in significant financial gains. As momentum builds, BlockDAG offers an enticing opportunity for those aiming to capitalize on what could be the next major breakthrough in the cryptocurrency market, much like Bitcoin’s profound impact on a New York university dropout who became a millionaire.

Conclusion: The Case for Investing in BlockDAG  

The journey of a university dropout turned crypto millionaire illuminates the power of early investment and the vision to spot budding opportunities. As BlockDAG gains traction and acclaim as the future of cryptocurrency, it offers an unprecedented chance for investors to achieve and perhaps surpass the success of Bitcoin.

With cutting-edge technology, a well-devised growth strategy, and solid community backing, BlockDAG is distinguished as the prime cryptocurrency for investors eager to capitalize on upcoming opportunities. Investing in BlockDAG today could secure significant returns in the future, presenting a valuable addition to any cryptocurrency portfolio.

Join BlockDAG Presale Now:

Website: https://blockdag.network

Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network

Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial

Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu

TechCircle in collaboration with SgGrow, SgVerse and FreakOut Holdings has announced the 15 finalists for the fourth edition of Pitch2Win. Pitch2Win is an annual competition that identifies and showcases the most promising early-stage startups and founders. “Pitch2Win aims to not only address the funding and mentorship gaps but also empower startups whose innovative business solutions have the potential to shape the future of technology in Africa,” Oo Nwoye, Founder of TechCircle said. 

Scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria on the 12th of June 2024, the 15 finalists will compete for a prize of $10,000 equity-free funding and an all-expense-paid trip to IVS2024 Kyoto – Japan’s largest startup conference. 

The Pitch2Win4 finalists are:

1. 10mg Pharma 

10mg Pharma uses AI to foster a chronic pain-free Africa, offering discounted meds and a data-driven KYC system that allows healthcare providers to access collateral-free, low-interest loans, reaching underserved communities. It was founded in 2022 by Christian Nwachukwu and Odianosen-Joy Peter

2. Acceede 

Acceedeis a flexible payment platform for schools founded in 2022 by Timilehin Adeoye and Emmanuel Adeboje

3. Apisentry Solutions 

Apisentry Solutions is a unified and advanced AI powered API security solution that is the first to consolidate different security products into one solution, and using AI modeling, can detect non-signature based vulnerabilities. It was founded in 2023 by Sylvia Onwukwe and Emmanuel Ezehiwele

4. Beezop 

Beezop, founded in 2021 by Charles Dairo, Marieanne Atim and Hope Uwa, automates employee training and management.

5. Bunce 

Bunce is a data driven engagement platform enabling businesses to grow what is most important – revenue and customer retention. It was founded in 2021 by Paul Ayuk and Oluwadamilola Soladoye

6. Edusko 

Edusko is a one-stop solution that matches African students with the right k-12 private schools and helps finance their education affordably. It was founded in 2021 by Jide Ayegbusi and Peace Oluwatade 

7. Eight Medical 

Eight Medical is a network of pre-hospital care professionals that provide urgent and emergency care when it matters most. It was founded in 2021 by Ibukun Tunde-Oni

8. Fullgap

Fullgap is a business management tool for small businesses. It was founded in 2023 by Victor Fatanmi and Bolaji Fawole

9. Mida Africa 

Mida Africa is an AI-powered ethical debt collection for Africa, founded in 2023 by Adija Uzodinma, Okeroghene Egbi and Mayowa Anibaba

10. Pave HQ 

Lanre Ogundipe and Oluwasoji Sanyaolu are the founders of Pave HQ, a digital learning and career ecosystem. It was founded in 2022.

11. Preggify 

Preggify is a 24-hour doctor-led care for pregnant women founded in 2022 by Ifunanya  Igweze and Temitayo Daniel

12. Regxta 

Regxta is an inclusive digital platform that offers quick and easy access to financial services for unbanked individuals and micro-businesses in rural and peri-urban communities across Africa. It was founded in 2021 by Rukayat Bello, Afis Bello, and Moses Obika

13. Sendstack 

Sendstack provides businesses with digital tools that automates logistics workflows, manage multiple delivery partners & optimize communication processes to fulfill more demand efficiently. It was founded in 2021 by Ifeoma Nwobu and Emeka Mba-Kalu

14. Sync!

Sync! is a teamwork management tool for ambitious entrepreneurs who want to take ambiguity out of the workplace and replace it with a synergy. It was founded in 2021 by Princess Edokpayi and Kristin Wilson

15. Trade Lenda

Founded in 2021 by Adeshina Adewumi and Oluwatosin Ayodele, Trade Lenda is a digital financial services providing credit to online and offline MSMEs in the supply value chain sector in Nigeria. 

“This year’s evaluation and selection process was exceptionally rigorous. From over 1,000 applications received, the team faced the challenging task of selecting these finalists from an impressive pool of innovative and high-quality entries.” Dr Odiong Akpan, Pitch2Win Program Director and Managing Partner at Ubulu Africa.

Pitch2Win4 – June 12, 2024

This year, Pitch2Win is set to bring together more than 200 innovators, startup founders, investors, regulators, and distinguished Nigerian and international guests. In addition to the pitch competition, Pitch2Win features inspiring keynote speeches, expert panel discussions, fireside chats and more.

For the $10,000 prize money and an all-expense-paid trip to IVS2024 Kyoto, Japan, the finalists will pitch their solutions and be evaluated by a panel of judges comprising investors, industry experts, and leading tech founders.

About Techcircle

Techcircle provides advisory, consultancy, and support services to African startup founders, corporate organizations, government agencies and foreign investors. The firm also facilitates value-driven relationships amongst these communities through ecosystem-wide events, programs and tours.

Techcircle has provided innovation management services and executed ecosystem programs for ARM Labs, Facebook, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Google, Microsoft, NCDMB NOGTECH, Startups Nigeria, UK Nigeria Tech Hub, Y-Combinator etc. 

About SgGrow

SgGrow is a premier accelerator & investment firm based in Singapore that believes in contributing to Singapore and global societies through investment and acceleration activities for startups.

About SgVerse

SgVerse is a premier Singapore-based web 3.0 incubator and accelerator for startups which also invests in promising web 3.0 projects

About FreakOut Holdings

FreakOut Holdings, founded by Yuzuru Honda in October 2010 is Asia’s first and Japan’s largest demand-side platform (DSP) for real-time bidding (RTB) on digital advertising, and growing as a marketing technology company in the Asian market. Yuzuru manages the company’s fast-growing business in 10 countries around the world.

Follow Techcircle:

Twitter (X) Linkedin Facebook Instagram

Contact Information:

For more information or sponsorship, send an email to hello@techcircle.ng