The fourth edition of the African Start-up Conference was held in Algiers in December 2025, bringing together African entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to discuss technological innovation and economic development. Organized as part of Algeria's strategy to position the country as a technological hub for the continent, the conference aims to foster exchanges, partnerships, and South-South cooperation. The 2025 edition was marked by the recognition of five Senegalese startups, selected from among some thirty applicants following a call for applications and a selection pitch at SALTIS Dakar by the Young Creators incubator. These startups were recognized for their innovative solutions with a strong societal and economic impact. Their travel, funded by the Algerian government, resulted in the signing of nine strategic Memoranda of Understanding, opening a new phase of inter-African collaboration.

Senegal's participation aligns with the national strategy for promoting technological entrepreneurship, a central pillar of economic policy supported by the Head of State. It has allowed Senegalese startups to gain visibility on the African stage, in synergy with Algeria's ambition to strengthen its technological appeal. The presence of the Senegalese delegation was highlighted by the Minister of Knowledge Economy and Startups, and by a side event organized by La Maison In Groupe, offering startups the opportunity to pitch their solutions to investors and institutional partners.

The work of the ASC 2025 confirmed the importance of strengthening regional financing and structuring mechanisms to support the expansion of startups. ArrawTech, led by Mamadou Dioum, is modernizing agri-food practices, while MatCompost, led by Khadidiatou Sall, is developing biofertilizers based on the circular economy, reducing dependence on imported inputs. Asaman Studios, led by Abdoulaye Bocar Dieng, and Quitus, led by Magatte Sylla, offer EdTech platforms that enhance access to basic knowledge and optimize communication between parents and educational institutions, thus contributing to human capital development.

The Senegalese delegation transformed its presence into concrete opportunities by signing nine strategic agreements. Asaman Studios established partnerships with Keybox, DZ Young Creators, and FluentEXdz, securing market access and distribution for their interactive educational offerings. ArrawTech collaborated with Moussaoui Industries and the IN-Cubator incubator to industrialize its equipment. MatCompost signed an agreement with DZ Young Creators for the experimentation and expansion of its production. Quitus secured partnerships with Creadev, DZ Young Creators, and Keybox for its business development and regional expansion. These agreements provide direct access to industrialization capabilities, distribution networks, and structured support, strengthening the competitiveness and reach of the Senegalese ecosystem.

The role of economic diplomacy, particularly the Senegalese Embassy in Algiers, will be crucial in transforming these agreements into operational collaborations and facilitating technology transfers. The success of these four startups demonstrates the maturity and relevance of Senegalese innovation, capable of responding homegrown to the continent's challenges. Congratulations to leaders Abdoulaye Bocar Dieng, Mamadou Dioum, Khadidiatou Sall, and Magatte Sylla for raising the flag of Senegalese entrepreneurial excellence. This tangible form of inter-African cooperation represents a major driver of future prosperity.