7 Startups Solving for Skin Problems, Sexual Wellness & Sustainability
Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape is a vibrant hub of innovation, with startups emerging to tackle some of the continent’s most pressing challenges. Our “Startups On Our Radar” series consistently spotlights these pioneering ventures, showcasing how local ingenuity drives transformative solutions. Following a previous edition featuring startups that shone at the competitive TC Battlefield stage at Moonshot 2025, we turn our attention to the next wave of innovators. This week, we delve into seven African startups spanning vital sectors like healthcare, waste management, culinary arts, and artificial intelligence. These sectors are particularly fertile grounds for addressing critical needs, including solutions for skin problems, advancements in sexual wellness, and crucial strides towards sustainability. While the full list of groundbreaking companies is extensive, we highlight one compelling example that illustrates the impactful potential of this innovation ecosystem.
Driving Sustainability: TrashCoin’s Innovative Waste-to-Wealth Model
Leading the charge in environmental sustainability is TrashCoin, an ingenious CleanTech startup from Nigeria. Co-founded by Wogu Nnodim Eliot and Phebe Ilesanmi, TrashCoin is revolutionizing waste management by empowering individuals and businesses to monetize their recyclable waste. This digital platform operates seamlessly through both a mobile application and a USSD code, bridging the gap between waste generators and a decentralized network of local collection agents. The barrier to entry for agents is remarkably low: anyone equipped with a modest storage space, a jumbo bag, a scale, and a smartphone can register. These agents can kickstart their operations by funding their digital wallet with an initial balance of ₦10,000, enabling them to begin collecting recyclable materials. TrashCoin doesn’t just manage waste; it fosters a circular economy, creating micro-entrepreneurship opportunities and turning environmental responsibility into economic value for communities across Nigeria.
The innovative spirit demonstrated by TrashCoin is a powerful testament to Africa’s potential to lead in sustainable development, healthcare solutions for prevalent skin problems and sexual wellness, and other critical areas. These African startups are not just building businesses; they are crafting impactful solutions that address local challenges with global relevance, improving lives and fostering economic growth. As these ventures continue to develop, they underscore the vital role of technology and entrepreneurship in shaping a more resilient and prosperous future for the continent. Keep an eye out for more dispatches on November 7, 2025, as we continue to track these game-changing innovations.
Keywords
Related Keywords: Skincare innovation startups, Sexual wellness startups, Sustainable beauty solutions, Ecofriendly personal care, Dermatology tech companies, Intimate health brands, Green wellness businesses, Clean beauty innovation, Wellness tech startups
