Why MENA, not Africa, led emerging-market venture growth in 2025
- African startups raised $3.24 billion by the end of 2025, a 44.6% year-on-year increase.
- MENA raised $3.80 billion across 688 deals, a 74% year-on-year increase in funding.
- Tunisia amended its financial law to allow residents to open foreign currency bank accounts, facilitating international transactions.
The growth of venture capital in Africa and MENA highlights the potential of these emerging markets, but the disparity in deal activity suggests that while funding is increasing, structural challenges remain. Policymakers must continue to foster environments that support early-stage startups to ensure sustainable growth in the tech ecosystem.
