A few weeks ago, Sompo Holdings, a Japanese insurance company announced a partnership with Nairobi-based BitPesa. The company never gave any financial details of the partnership. However, according to Cointelegraph and Bitcoin News, an investment was made. Additionally, Nigeria-based healthtech startup SonoCare raised funding from US-based investor, Gray Matters Capital. That and more in today's brief.
Standard Bank launches new mobile virtual network operator
The MVNO will allow the bank to provide cellular and data services, though that will be through Cell C’s network. Among the services available includes the ability for Standard Bank customers to convert bank charges into airtime or data. MyBroadband.
Kenya’s FreshBox pioneers solar-powered refrigeration in East Africa
Although a similar service is already being offered by ColdHubs in Nigeria, FreshBox is carving out its own niche in Kenya. Its flagship unit is a solar-powered, walk-in cold room that can hold over 2100kg of fruits and vegetables, and can reach temperatures below freezing point. Disrupt Africa.
SonoCare Secures Funding From Gray Matters Capital’s coLABS Funds
The on-demand mobile diagnostic imaging startup SonoCare secured funding to the tune of $250,000. The investment is made through the gender lens portfolio, GMC coLabs of the US-based investor, Gray Matters Capital. Weetracker.
Sompo Holdings Acquires 10% Stake in Kenyan Cryptocurrency Exchange Bitpesa
The Tokyo-listed insurer, which reported sales of 192.78 billion yen ($1.7 billion) for October, did not disclose the terms of the deal. However, Japanese-language media outlets have valued the transaction at roughly 570 million yen, without citing sources. Bitcoin News.