Builders of Africa Podcast

Unlock the secret to transforming Africa’s healthcare supply chain from scattershot to reliable, scalable, and trust-driven.Ahmed Yahia, founder of SURGiA, reveals how a personal story about fake medical supplies ignited a mission to empower hospitals in remote regions with digital infrastructure, financing, and quality assurance — and it’s only the beginning. This episode dives deep into the gritty realities of building trust in regulated markets.You'll discover a simple yet powerful framework for navigating compliance, verification, and stakeholder relationships in healthcare supply chains. Ahmed shares concrete strategies for verifying suppliers globally, establishing direct manufacturer ties, and maintaining quality amid complex logistics. We break down the crucial role of operational automation from day one — why startups often fail to scale operationally, and how to embed scalable processes early, from inventory to supply chain forecasting. Plus, how to blend online and offline channels to build trust with healthcare providers who still rely on physical presence and relationships.Most importantly, Ahmed’s honest lessons about fundraising — raising to expand, not just to survive — will challenge your assumptions about growth and sustainability in healthtech.Whether you're entering healthcare or building a B2B platform in Africa, this episode is packed with clear, real-world lessons.Follow Ahmed at https://surgia.co/ or connect on LinkedIn for ongoing insights. Ready to move from concept to reliable healthcare infrastructure? Hit play now.

Most entrepreneurs in Africa try to grow by doing more of what already works. Sabrina Yegela took a different route, and it’s paying off.From Tanzania, she’s building a plant-based lifestyle brand that combines traditional know-how with practical innovation. She’s not just running a farm; she’s turning farm outputs into real products, and building community-driven stays that bring in steady income.The wild part? She built it without outside funding. Along the way, she’s had to deal with water scarcity, regulations, and the uphill battle of earning trust in a market where many people doubt local brands.In this episode, we get into:- How Sabrina is turning crops into higher-value products — from skincare to snacks to experiences- What it really takes to keep building when water is limited (and why tools like hydroponics matter)- How she built credibility with organic, certified products — and why that trust compounds- How she got her first customers through community, word-of-mouth, and content (without big marketing budgets)- Why sharing the journey publicly — wins, mistakes, and all — can build loyalty faster than “perfect” brandingAfrica’s entrepreneurial potential is often stifled by lack of support, infrastructure, and regional trust. Sabrina’s story proves that with grit and strategic authenticity, you can defy the odds; creating ripple effects that uplift communities and redefine local brands.If you're an African builder—whether in agribusiness, hospitality, or consumer goods—this episode is your blueprint for impactful, sustainable growth grounded in purpose. Tap into Sabrina’s transparent journey, and get inspired to carve your own path forward, because Africa’s future depends on entrepreneurs like you.Follow Sabrina:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thebantuvegan/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinayegela/Follow Obafela:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/obafelakilla/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/obafelakilla/Follow Builders of Africa:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/buildafrica_okTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@buildafrica_okExplore More:◼ Discover Bantu Vegan - https://www.bantuvegan.com/◼ More Builders of Africa - https://www.obafelakilla.com/boaStart thinking beyond just product—think legacy, community, and resilience. Now's the time to build boldly and intentionally.

In this insightful session, Maryam Bello shares her journey of navigating the complex world of innovation in Africa. She discusses the stereotypes and challenges faced by entrepreneurs and highlights the importance of building genuine credibility. Maryam reveals how overcoming obstacles and focusing on authentic progress can unlock funding and partnerships. As a climate and public health innovator, Maryam shares her journey from launching Telika AI to empowering founders without a voice at the top.She explains:◼ How her upbringing shaped her resilience and drive◼ The importance of authenticity in building trust◼ Why overcoming stereotypes is crucial for African entrepreneurs◼ How Telika AI is changing the game for founders◼ The role of integrity and vision in choosing co-founders00:00 Intro01:15 The Unexpected Challenges of Building in Africa03:45 Overcoming Stereotypes in Entrepreneurship06:30 The Real Signals of Credibility Investors Seek09:00 How Maryam's Upbringing Shaped Her Drive12:15 The Importance of Authenticity in Building Trust15:00 How Telika AI Empowers Founders18:30 Choosing Co-Founders with Integrity and Vision21:00 The Future of Innovation in AfricaFollow Maryam:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bellomaryam_/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryam-bello-602b53164/Follow Obafela:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/obafelakilla/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/obafelakilla/Follow Builders of Africa:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/buildafrica_okTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@buildafrica_okExplore More:◼ Discover Telika AI - http://telika.ai/