Sahara Group Foundation reaffirms support for African entrepreneurs with MADAA reloaded
By Yunus Yusuf
L-R, Tolulope Odubela, Technology Lead, Asharami Innovations; Bethel Obioma, Head, Corporate Communications Sahara Group; Chidilim Menakaya, Director, Sahara Group Foundation and Tolu Fadipe, General Counsel/Head Legal Sahara Group during Sahara Group Foundation’s Making A Difference Around Africa Reloaded Event in Lagos
The Sahara Group Foundation has unveiled MADAA reloaded, a revitalised version of its flagship initiative, Making A Difference Around Africa (MADAA), reaffirming its commitment to empowering African entrepreneurs with access to markets, technology, and expert business support.
Speaking at an event in Lagos, Chidilim Menakaya, Director of the Sahara Group Foundation, emphasized the program’s goal to drive inclusive development across the continent.
“Through the MADAA initiative, we aim to connect entrepreneurs with opportunities that will grow their businesses and ultimately unlock Africa’s potential for inclusive development,” she said.
MADAA Reloaded is a key component of the Foundation’s bold and innovative EXTRApreneurship model.
The program targets visionary entrepreneurs leveraging local and natural resources to solve everyday challenges.
With a strong focus on sustainability, it seeks to empower businesses that not only succeed commercially but also contribute to environmental preservation across Africa.
“During our initial application cycle, we discovered a remarkable depth of entrepreneurial talent across the continent,” Menakaya noted.
“While the interest was inspiring, it became clear that expanding our reach and refining our criteria would help us connect with even more changemakers capable of transforming their communities. MADAA Reloaded is our renewed promise to do just that.”
The enhanced initiative offers participants access to mentorship, business advisory services, funding opportunities, and vital exposure to thrive in a competitive market. Applications for MADAA Reloaded are open until May 31, 2025.
Shortlisting will begin in June, with the program set to launch in the third quarter of the year.
Post-program, participants will benefit from continued support through other Sahara Group Foundation initiatives such as the Sahara Impact Fund (SIF), which provides additional capital and growth support.
By linking entrepreneurs with investors, business leaders, and strategic partners, MADAA creates a pathway for scalable impact and long-term sustainability.
With MADAA Reloaded, the Sahara Group Foundation reaffirms its dedication to building resilient communities by empowering EXTRApreneurs—bold, purpose-driven individuals committed to transforming their lives and shaping Africa’s future.
