African Tech Innovation on the Rise: Tunisia Seeks to Catch Up
The dynamism of technological innovation in Africa is confirmed. In 2024, startups on the continent raised a total of $3.2 billion, divided between 457 equity operations (-3% compared to 2023) and 77 debt operations (+4%), according to Partech. Mega-transactions exceeding $100 million have progressed, reaching seven operations, up from four the previous year.
Although the sector continues to attract investor interest, investment amounts remain concentrated in four countries: Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya, which together capture 67% of invested capital. Tunisia, while present in the continental ranking, still lags far behind these dominant markets.
According to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025 published by StartupBlink, Tunisia ranks 7th in Africa and 82nd globally, gaining eight positions in one year. This progress testifies to a notable improvement, but the country remains distanced by more mature ecosystems like those of South Africa (52nd) and Kenya (58th).
At the city level, Tunis ranks 327th globally, far behind Lagos (76th), Nairobi (107th), or Casablanca (317th). This position reflects a growing ecosystem, but one still limited in terms of financing, infrastructure, and international visibility.
To strengthen its position on the African tech scene, Tunisia must intensify its efforts in terms of connectivity, entrepreneur support, financing, and business climate. The report also highlights the importance of joint mobilization by the public and private sectors, as well as the diaspora, to attract more investments and foster the emergence of innovative young companies capable of competing on a global scale.
