eWAKA Co-Founder and CEO Selected as 2026 Cartier Women's Initiative Fellow

Electric Mobility Pioneer Honored for African Impact

Céleste Tchetgen Vogel, co-founder and CEO of eWAKA, has been selected as a 2026 Cartier Women's Initiative Fellow, recognizing her leadership in electrifying Africa's mobility sector. The prestigious fellowship honors women entrepreneurs driving innovation and social impact across the continent.

eWAKA's Mission: Clean Mobility for Africa

eWAKA is building Africa's next-generation electric mobility platform, currently operating in Kenya and Rwanda with expansion plans for Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The company addresses the critical need for sustainable transportation solutions across the continent.

Vogel's vision focuses on providing clean, affordable electric vehicles to riders who need reliable transportation to earn a living. "We're giving riders clean vehicles they can own and a better way to earn," Vogel stated, highlighting the dual impact on environmental sustainability and economic empowerment.

From Finance to Entrepreneurship

Originally from Cameroon, Vogel brings extensive experience from senior legal and executive roles at Credit Suisse, ABB, and Swiss Re before co-founding eWAKA in 2021. Her background in finance and corporate leadership provided the foundation for building a sustainable startup in the mobility space.

The Cartier Women's Initiative Fellowship provides eWAKA with additional resources and mentorship to accelerate growth and impact. The fellowship recognizes not just business success, but also the potential for scalable social change through entrepreneurship.

Impact on African Mobility

Africa's transportation sector faces unique challenges, including limited access to clean energy and high transportation costs. eWAKA's electric mobility solutions address these issues by providing affordable, sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuel vehicles.

The company's electric vehicles reduce carbon emissions while lowering operating costs for riders. This dual benefit creates positive environmental and economic outcomes for communities across East Africa where eWAKA currently operates.

Libya Connection and Regional Expansion

While eWAKA's current operations focus on East Africa, the model has significant potential for North African markets like Libya. The company's approach to providing clean, affordable electric mobility aligns with regional sustainability goals and economic development initiatives.

Vogel's recognition as a Cartier Women's Initiative Fellow brings international attention to eWAKA's innovative approach. The fellowship includes funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities that could accelerate expansion into new markets across the continent.

"This fellowship validates our approach and opens doors to partnerships that can amplify our impact," Vogel noted. The recognition also highlights the growing role of African women entrepreneurs in driving technological innovation and sustainable development.

Future Outlook

With plans to expand into Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, eWAKA is positioning itself as a key player in Africa's electric mobility revolution. The Cartier Women's Initiative Fellowship provides crucial support for scaling operations and reaching more riders in need.

Vogel's journey from corporate finance to clean energy entrepreneurship exemplifies the innovation happening across Africa. Her work with eWAKA demonstrates how technology and sustainability can create economic opportunities while addressing environmental challenges.

The 2026 Cartier Women's Initiative Fellowship recognizes not just business achievement, but the potential for transformative impact across the continent. Vogel's selection as a fellow places eWAKA among the most promising startups driving positive change in Africa's mobility sector.

— Libya Press / News Desk