AGL, a major logistics player in Africa, is determined to be at the forefront of initiatives that propel the continent forward. Recognizing technology as a key driver of growth, they created Yiri to align with the Ivorian government’s vision of a thriving digital economy.
Officially opened in June 2024, Yiri serves as a launchpad for innovation among AGL employees, customers, universities, and African startups. Cisse expresses her gratitude to all who participated in the center’s inauguration.
Yiri was designed to address the digital transformation shaping our world. By equipping young Africans with the tools they need to thrive in this evolving landscape, Yiri aims to foster entrepreneurship across Africa, encourage the adoption of emerging technologies, spark job creation, and cultivate local talent
Yiri is much more than just a physical space. It’s a hub designed to accelerate progress and transform Africa. The center features office areas, meeting rooms, flexible training spaces, a conference hall, and a relaxation area – all conducive to brainstorming and prototyping innovative digital projects.
Yiri offers three programs to cultivate a vibrant innovation ecosystem: opening innovation program targeting startups developing technological solutions in sectors relevant to AGL’s operations (logistics, transport, digital, etc.), raising public awareness about innovation and entrepreneurship, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among AGL employees.
The center will also host themed workshops, pitch competitions, conferences, innovation challenges, job fairs, and open days. These initiatives position Yiri as a central player in driving digital transformation within Côte d’Ivoire and across Africa.
Yiri’s various spaces are named after prominent African figures who serve as role models for aspiring entrepreneurs. These include Fabrice Sawegnon (communications and entrepreneurship), Didier Drogba (sports and philanthropy), Regis Bamba (fintech), Rebecca Enonchong (tech entrepreneur), and Francis Kere (architecture).
AGL recognizes that the innovation sector thrives on collaboration. For this reason, they actively involved key players in the Ivorian innovation ecosystem, particularly young local entrepreneurs united under the umbrella of “Côte d’Ivoire Innovation 20” (CI20). AGL and CI20 co-created the project, defining its programs and goals. A formal agreement signed in May 2024 solidified this partnership, granting Yiri access to CI20’s network, expertise, and experience to support young entrepreneurs. In return, AGL offers CI20 members and startups privileged access to markets in AGL’s 49 countries of operation.
As a prelude to Yiri’s opening, AGL co-organized a hackathon focused on environmental innovation for young Ivorian entrepreneurs. The “Pangaea X” hackathon attracted over 300 participants who formed teams to develop sustainable solutions. The winning team, “Ivoire Straw,” impressed the jury with their plan to create biodegradable packaging from rice straw. This team will represent Côte d’Ivoire at the European finals of the Pangaea X hackathon.
Yiri is now operational and actively seeking applications for its first startup support program, “Accelerate.” This program will provide expert coaching, training, and themed events to accelerate the growth of a select group of young entrepreneurs. Yiri promises to be a driving force in empowering African innovation and transforming the continent’s digital landscape.
WN/as/APA