Eighteen companies across fintech, mobility, energy, healthtech and property are now being closely watched by investors, following a year in which equity funding for African unicorns fell to its lowest level since 2020 and IPO discussions largely stalled. Fintech remains the deepest pipeline for potential unicorns. M-Kopa stands out after raising about $166 million in a Series F round in 2025 and posting its first-ever profit, strengthening its case for a $1 billion-plus valuation. Read also:  Eighteen companies across fintech, mobility, energy, healthtech and property are now being closely watched by investors, following a year in which equity funding for African unicorns fell to its lowest level since 2020 and IPO discussions largely stalled. Fintech remains the deepest pipeline for potential unicorns. M-Kopa stands out after raising about $166 million in a Series F round in 2025 and posting its first-ever profit, strengthening its case for a $1 billion-plus valuation. Read also: