Start Up Watch: Three Nigerian Start Ups to Watch Out For‏

  1. EasyTaxi: Have you ever gotten stuck on the road and needed a cab? Have you ever been robbed because you got into an unmarked and unlicensed taxi? Then EasyTaxi is for you. This smartphone app allows users to get licensed taxis with just the click of a button. The startup seeks to ensure safe and efficient trips by improving on the current transportation challenges in densely populated Nigeria. EasyTaxi went a step further recently by partnering with Google to educate its drivers on the usage of Google maps so that they can plan their routes and avoid gridlocks. Founder: Bankole Cardoso www.easytaxi.com.ng 2. Tranzit: Tranzit is a free mobile and web application which provides transportation and delivery services. Transit app works like a middleman; it helps users to find places and events based on the user’s location, gives access to ‘safe’ services and helps the companies to have access to more passengers in the process. Founders: Rodney Jackson-Cole, Muyiwa Boris and Ugochi Nicole Ugbomeh www.tranzit.ng 3. Genii Games: Genii Games is interesting because of their chosen niche- the company owns ASA, which means culture. Asa is a range of mobile applications with African cultural content. With the western influence in Africa, from television and film content to language and fashion, the app is aimed at promoting and preserving the richness of the African culture. The company also runs a club, Asa club, which runs a short series of activity-based workshops for kids to learn, share and create all within the context of the African culture. The app is good for kids to learn their languages and folk tales. Founder: Adebayo Adegbembo www.geniigames.com