12 women driving Africa’s venture capital market
From angel investors to venture partners, these women are influencing where capital flows in Africa’s startup ecosystem.
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Globally, women remain under-represented in the senior ranks of venture capital. Recent data shows that women hold roughly 15% of partner or decision‑making roles at VC firms worldwide, with only a fraction of firms led by women founders or majority-female partner teams. In the US, women now hold almost a fifth of top investment roles, including partner and managing partner roles. It’s a notable increase from a decade ago, but still far from parity.<br />
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In Africa, the picture is both challenging and promising. A 2023 survey of venture firms active on the continent found that approximately 40% of VC firms have at least one female partner, founder, or managing partner, rising to nearly 48% among Africa‑based firms.<br />
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As the proportion of women in senior decision‑making roles grows, so too does the importance of their influence on capital allocation and the strategic direction of the ecosystem. In celebration of Women’s Month, we celebrate the women at the helm — leaders whose work shapes investment flows and unlocks opportunities for founders across Africa’s startup landscape.<br />
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Yemi Keri<br />
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Yemi Keri is a prominent figure in Africa’s venture capital ecosystem, known for championing early-stage innovation and expanding opportunities for women investors. She is the co-founder of Rising Tide Africa and currently serves as president of the African Business Angel Network (ABAN), where she plays a leading role in strengthening angel investing across the continent. In 2025, she was recognised as Angel Investor of the Year at the ABAN Awards.<br />
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Keri is also the CEO of Heckerbella Limited. Her career spans technology, telecommunications, and public service. She previously served as Executive Director of ICT for the Edo State Government from 2009 to 2012 and later worked as General Manager at Ntel. <br />
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A trained accountant with a BSc from the University of Maiduguri, she also holds an MSc in Information Technology, as well as certifications from the Lagos Business School and the London Schoo...
