( AGL) - On 21 November, Yiri by AGL (the innovation centre of the Africa Global Logistics - AGL group) and Digital Africa (a subsidiary of Proparco, AFD Group) organised the first edition of the Accelerate X Fuzé Challenge in Kigali: a new call for projects designed to identify and support innovative start-ups in the transport and logistics sector in East Africa.

A strategic partnership to accelerate African innovation

The collaboration between Yiri and Digital Africa originated at VivaTech, Europe's largest innovation fair, where the two organizations identified a common vision: to accelerate the emergence of start-ups capable of sustainably transforming African value chains.

Thanks to Yiri's expertise in entrepreneurial support and the financing and technical support capacity of Digital Africa (AFD Group/Proparco), the two entities have joined forces to create a joint initiative: the Accelerate X Fuzé Challenge.

12 startups selected

To inaugurate this partnership, a first edition of the challenge dedicated to startups from East Africa (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi and DRC) was launched. With more than 100 applicants, it is clear that the call for applications for this edition in Kigali aroused great interest.

Following a rigorous selection process, based on innovation potential, logistical and industrial relevance as well as commercial traction, 12 startups were chosen to participate in the pitch day organized at the Norrsken House in Kigali. These companies, from various sectors ranging from cold chain to cross-border trade financing, including electric road transport solutions, were selected for their ability to provide concrete answers to the continent's challenges.

From the announcement of the winners, expected by the end of January, the selected startups will join a comprehensive six-month support program. This path will include personalized mentoring from industry experts, one-on-one coaching sessions, as well as the co-development of a pilot project with AGL, paving the way for real partnerships and new business opportunities. They will also benefit from privileged access to a pan-African network of entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders.

And for some of them, co-financing from Digital Africa and AGL.

Heading for West Africa in 2026

The partnership between Yiri and Digital Africa does not stop there! A second edition of the challenge is planned for February 2026 in Abidjan, this time open to West African startups.

About AGL (Africa Global Logistics)

AGL is the trusted logistics operator in Africa, offering logistics, port, maritime and rail solutions. With 23,000 employees in 50 countries, AGL draws on its developed expertise to provide tailor-made and innovative services to its African and international clients. Sensitivity: Internal AGL's ambition is to make a lasting contribution to Africa's transformation. AGL is also present in Haiti, East Timor and Indonesia.