A new group of entrepreneurs from South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi has been selected to take part in the first cohort of Le Shift Lab, a new incubation programme designed to support GreenTech and Digital Innovation startups with the potential to solve some of Africa’s biggest environmental and business challenges.
The initiative, led by the French Embassy in South Africa, aims to help early-stage businesses develop practical solutions that improve sustainability while creating economic opportunities. Over the coming months, the selected startups will receive tailored mentorship, expert-led workshops and access to the South African and French innovation ecosystems. The programme will conclude with a Demo Day in early 2027, where participants will present their businesses to investors, partners and industry stakeholders.
Le Shift Lab focuses on entrepreneurs developing technologies that combine sustainability with digital innovation. By bringing together green technology, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced data analytics, the programme seeks to help startups scale solutions that address climate change, improve resource management and strengthen Africa’s green economy.
Supporting innovation to solve climate and business challenges
The launch of Le Shift Lab comes at a time when governments, businesses and investors are placing greater emphasis on climate resilience and sustainable development. The programme is designed to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and commercial growth by giving entrepreneurs access to the knowledge, networks and resources needed to expand their businesses.
The initiative reflects the French Embassy’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs who are building solutions for cleaner energy, smarter agriculture, sustainable transport, waste management and digital infrastructure. Beyond helping individual businesses grow, the programme is expected to encourage collaboration between African and French innovation ecosystems while creating new opportunities for investment and long-term partnerships.
The first cohort brings together founders working across several industries, demonstrating how technology can be used to solve practical environmental and economic challenges.
Innocent Mandili of MI Technologies and Innovations is developing clean energy solutions by converting agricultural waste into renewable energy for households. The company’s work helps reduce deforestation while creating sustainable livelihoods and expanding access to affordable clean energy across African communities.
Bronwen Turner leads BL Turner Group PTY Ltd, a female-owned South African business based in KwaZulu-Natal that provides sustainable environmental solutions. The company supplies atmospheric water generators while also producing organic waste-to-liquid fertilizer to help improve environmental sustainability and respond to climate-related challenges.
Bafokeng Mofokeng, founder of BAMO Holdings, is building solutions for Africa’s growing circular economy. The company focuses on verifying and tracking electronic waste, helping businesses transform e-waste management from a regulatory obligation into measurable environmental and commercial value.
Rachel Kumwenda-Kaunda heads Drone Link, a business that uses drone technology and data analysis to help farmers monitor pests and crop diseases. By providing early warnings, the company helps farmers reduce crop losses, improve productivity and strengthen food security.
Tshepo Bhengu founded Muna, a platform that enables retailers to recover value from excess inventory through brand-safe resale solutions. Rather than operating as a traditional marketplace, the company provides infrastructure that allows businesses to manage deadstock while protecting brand reputation.
Michell Moswane leads Mishies Company, a South African clean technology enterprise focused on converting organic waste into renewable energy. Through anaerobic digesters, biocharcoal and biomass briquettes, the company supports a circular economy while reducing waste.
Letlotlo Motlhake, founder of Aeronautical Works – AeroDelivery, is using artificial intelligence-powered drone technology to improve logistics. The company delivers healthcare products, e-commerce goods and other essential supplies more efficiently to underserved communities across South Africa.
Startups building practical solutions for Africa’s future
Tumelo Mashita established Laeta Cool, a refrigeration-as-a-service startup that provides cold storage infrastructure for businesses selling temperature-sensitive products. The company addresses challenges created by unreliable electricity, limited financing and inadequate storage facilities.
Zama Zamisa leads Malesedi, a business focused on clean mobility. The company combines electric transport solutions with youth skills development and local innovation to promote economic inclusion while supporting the transition to greener transport systems.
Mamello Maliehe founded Amanzi Technologies and Solutions (Pty) Ltd, the company behind Amanzi X, a deep technology startup developing AI-powered infrastructure for African water utilities. Its technology helps detect pipeline leaks and reduce non-revenue water losses through advanced data analysis.
Alinafe Kaliwo is the founder of Mechro Limited, which is developing Munda AI, a soil intelligence platform that combines artificial intelligence, IoT and climate data. The platform provides smallholder farmers with data-driven recommendations that improve irrigation, increase productivity, restore soil health and conserve water.
Riyaad Howard heads eSwitch AI, a company providing an end-to-end energy management platform for electric vehicle fleets. Its technology integrates solar energy systems, charging infrastructure and fleet management tools, allowing organisations to monitor carbon emissions, energy use and electric vehicle operations through a single platform.
Tumisang Maramane founded Circular Build, a digital platform that connects surplus construction materials with buyers. By preventing usable materials from becoming waste, the company promotes affordability, transparency and sustainability within the construction sector.
Kamogelo Motshidi leads FLEETAINABLE, developed by The Itsile Group. The business has created a carbon intelligence platform that helps mining, logistics and energy companies accurately measure, manage and reduce emissions while improving operational performance.
The diversity of this inaugural cohort highlights the growing role that African entrepreneurs are playing in developing solutions that combine technology with sustainability. Through Le Shift Lab, these businesses will gain access to mentorship, technical expertise and international networks that can help accelerate their growth.
