Two Kenyan firms, Apexloads and Shamba Records, are among fifteen African startups selected to join the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa Class 9 program. Under the program, the startups will secure essential support, mentorship, and funding.

These innovative startups, hailing from Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa, are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to address significant challenges across diverse sectors, including fintech, agritech, healthtech, and professional services.

The selection follows a highly competitive application process that began in April 2025, drawing nearly 1,500 applications from across the continent. This cohort underscores Google’s deep commitment to fostering Africa’s vibrant tech ecosystem and supporting startups in their growth journey.

“African startups are at the forefront of solving critical challenges across the continent, and their work with AI is truly transformative,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google.

Apexloads is a Kenyan firm offering logistics Software-as-a-Service, connecting African freight brokers, forwarders, and transporters to move cargo faster with verified partners.

According to Apexloads Founder and Chief Executive Officer Charles Thuo, the accelerator is key in propelling the firm in its expansion drive as it eyes entry in Zambia and Rwanda. The firm currently has operations in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

“The resources help us bring on board the talent we need to serve our customers and grow our user base. We’ll be able to engage more with users and iterate faster, and we push to standardize and streamline the logistics industry in Africa,” said Thuo.

On the other hand, Shamba Records is a Kenyan AI-powered platform that empowers at least 50,000 African farmers with smart credit, market access, and climate-resilient, data-driven agriculture.

“This program reflects our belief that AI can be transformative when shaped by those who understand the context deeply. We are incredibly excited to support these founders who are building for impact and helping to shape an inclusive AI ecosystem across Africa,” Aiyegbusi added.

Participants will receive dedicated technical mentorship from experienced Google engineers and industry experts, up to Ksh 45.2 million ($350,000) in Google Cloud credits , and strategic support in AI implementation, product leadership, and business growth. They will also gain access to a global network of investors, partners, and collaborators, amplifying their reach and impact, Google said.

The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa Class 9 cohort includes: