UNICEF Backs Six African Startups Revolutionizing Women's Health Tech
UNICEF Femtech Ventures has launched its first cohort of tech startups focused on women’s and girls’ health. The initiative, backed by Sweden and Temasek Foundation, supports entrepreneurs tackling challenges like maternal care, gender-based violence, and financial inclusion. A second call for applications will open later this year. The programme received over 1,100 applications from 85 countries, with more than half coming from Africa. Six African startups were selected: Dotoh (Benin), SafeRide by Esheria (Kenya), HLlama by Umbaji (Togo), Feel by Luna (Tunisia), DawaMom by Dawa Health (Kenya), and YouthShield by Kairos (Burkina Faso). Each will receive up to $100,000 in equity-free funding and a year of technical support.
The startups use AI, data science, and blockchain to improve maternal health, safe transport, and financial access. UNICEF’s Office of Innovation is now seeking more partners to expand funding for frontier tech founders in emerging markets.
Progress updates will be shared in the fourth quarter, alongside the opening of the next application round. The initiative aims to reach millions of women and girls, particularly in South Africa, where sexual and reproductive health remains a key focus. UNICEF Femtech Ventures is moving from documenting equity gaps to actively funding solutions. The selected startups will develop technologies to address critical health and safety issues. Further expansion is planned as the programme seeks new investors and prepares for its next phase.
