Kenyan fintech startup Kwara selected for Japan-led Ninja Accelerator Programme
Digital banking platform and fintech company Kwara has been selected for the first cohort of the Ninja Accelerator programme in Kenya.
Growth Africa announced that out of 178 applicants, Kwara was one of the five startups selected to partake in the first-ever JICA Ninja Accelerator. The accelerator is aimed at connecting Kenyan startups to Japan. After tailor-made coaching by Japanese corporates, investors, and partners, the startups partake in a Global Road Show in Tokyo and Silicon Valley in 2022.
“We look forward to building strong strategic partnerships with Japan-based corporations and investors. This will be an important Launchpad for our ASEAN and Africa expansion. We are optimistic about exchanging ideas, technical expertise, and culture so we can build a global, profitable business together.” Cynthia Wandia, Kwara’s CEO, said.
The program is powered by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in partnership with Double Feather Partners (DFP), Deloitte Tohmatsu Venture Support (DTVS), Deloitte Tohmatsu Financial Advisory (DTFA) and GrowthAfrica, and further supported by 500 Startups.
It was launched in Kenya back in February. Startups joining the programme are through a three-month, tailored, intensive program, offering a unique blend of Japanese and African expertise, local knowledge, and access to a pool of Japanese, African and global mentors and investors.
