Kenyan Robotics Startup Joins Elite Tech Program in Africa

A Kenyan startup creating life-changing technology for people with disabilities has been selected for a prestigious program that could accelerate its impact across the continent.

Zerobionic, which develops assistive robotics to help people with disabilities live more independently, is one of just 10 startups chosen for Qualcomm's 2026 Make in Africa Mentorship Programme. The company competed against more than 1,200 applications from over 45 African countries.

The selection marks a significant milestone for Kenya's growing reputation as a technology innovation hub. Zerobionic joins startups from Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Namibia, and Zimbabwe working on solutions ranging from smart farming to clean water access.

Through the year-long program, Zerobionic will receive hands-on mentorship from industry experts, engineering consultations, and intellectual property training to help protect and commercialize their innovations. The support addresses a critical gap many African startups face when trying to scale breakthrough technologies.

At the program's conclusion, all participating companies will be eligible for a $5,000 stipend upon meeting program requirements. One startup will also receive a grant from Qualcomm's Social Impact Fund, providing crucial early-stage funding to bring their solution to market.

The program, now in its fourth year, is part of Qualcomm's Africa Innovation Platform and runs in partnership with the African Telecommunications Union. It focuses on supporting startups working with artificial intelligence, smart systems, and connected technologies that solve real-world problems.

The Ripple Effect: Zerobionic's selection highlights how African entrepreneurs are increasingly building solutions that address challenges unique to the continent while developing technologies that could benefit people worldwide. The assistive robotics field remains underserved globally, and innovations from Kenya could help millions of people with disabilities gain greater independence in their daily lives.

Wassim Chourbaji, senior Vice President at Qualcomm, noted that the quality of this year's applicants reflects the rapid maturation of Africa's innovation ecosystem. Startups across the continent are moving beyond concepts to create scalable, impactful solutions using advanced technologies.

The program provides more than just funding. Participants receive product design guidance, business coaching, and access to cutting-edge platforms that help them refine their prototypes and business models.

For Kenya, Zerobionic's achievement reinforces the country's position as a leading technology hub alongside its neighbors in East Africa's thriving startup scene.

One Kenyan company is proving that the next generation of assistive technology might just come from Africa.