The top 12 finalists have been announced for the 2014 Anzisha Prize. The competition recognises and celebrates African entrepreneurs between the ages of 15 and 22 who are using business to solve problems in their communities. The top three winners will be announced on 23 September, and will win a share of the US$75,000 prize money.


Here is why these 12 young innovators deserve to be in the running.

Sam Kodo, 22, Togo – developing low-cost computers
Togolese Sam Kodo is the founder of LC-COM (Low-Cost Computer)/Infinite Loop, a company that produces low-cost personal computers for students. The miniature computers can fit into a pocket and plug into TVs or touchscreens to turn it into an internet enabled desktop PC. They are sold for a fraction of the price of other PCs in the market, and cost about half the amount to produce. The company employs six people and has sold 45 computers in Togo since February.
Kodo created his first robot at the age of eight, and by 19 he caught the attention of the international media for his robots which could interact with humans, recognise faces and objects, speak, execute orders and even play football! A few years ago Kodo also created his first smartphone.

Jeffrey Mulaudzi, 22, South Africa – conducting lifestyle tours in a Johannesburg township
During the height of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, 18-year-old Jeffrey Mulaudzi saw an opportunity to provide bicycle tours of Alexandra, a Johannesburg township, the place where he was born and raised. He founded Mulaudzi Bicycle Tours, a lifestyle tour of Alexandra that also engages members of the community by telling their stories and enveloping them into the business.

Many of his customers are tourists who want to experience township life, and Mulaudzi says his tours immediately create business for other entrepreneurs in the community.
Today his tours are growing in popularity, and TripAdvisor currently ranks them in the top five activities in Johannesburg.

For further details/source: http://businessafricans..com/2015/02/meet-africas-top-young-entrepreneurs.html