**12 Women Leading Africa's Venture Capital Market** As we celebrate Women's Month, it's essential to acknowledge the significant contributions of women to Africa's venture capital ecosystem. Despite the challenges they face, women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in the sector, shaping investment decisions and unlocking opportunities for entrepreneurs across the continent. Globally, women hold only about 15% of partner or decision-making roles at venture capital firms. However, in Africa, the picture is more promising. A recent survey found that approximately 40% of venture capital firms on the continent have at least one female partner, founder, or managing partner. This is a notable increase from a decade ago and a testament to the growing influence of women in the industry. One of the women at the forefront of this movement is Yemi Keri, a prominent figure in Africa's venture capital ecosystem. As the co-founder of Rising Tide Africa and president of the African Business Angel Network (ABAN), Keri is a champion of early-stage innovation and a strong advocate for women investors. Her experience spans technology, telecommunications, and public service, and she has received recognition for her work as an angel investor. Keri's career is a testament to the diverse skills and expertise that women bring to the table. As a trained accountant with a BSc from the University of Maiduguri, she has also pursued advanced degrees in information technology and business management. Her experience in leadership roles, including her time as Executive Director of ICT for the Edo State Government, has equipped her with the skills to navigate complex business environments and drive growth. Other women leading the way in Africa's venture capital market include: * Olamide Olusanya, a partner at Ventures Platform Fund, who has invested in startups across the continent. * Nneoma Nwogu, the founder of The Innovation Hub, a Lagos-based incubator that supports early-stage startups. * Nimi Akinkugbe, a partner at GreenTec Capital Partners, a venture capital firm that invests in sustainable energy and agriculture startups. * Kola Aina, the managing partner of EchoVC, a venture capital firm that invests in technology and finance startups. These women, along with Yemi Keri, are breaking down barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse venture capital ecosystem in Africa. As their influence grows, so too do the opportunities for entrepreneurs and startups across the continent.