Goma: A City on the Rise

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. The country's GDP grew by 8.6% in 2022, and it is expected to grow by 8% in 2023. This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including:

• A young and growing population
• A rising middle class
• Increased investment in infrastructure
• Growing demand for natural resources

In Eastern Congo, there lies a city of striking beauty and contrasts: Goma. Nestled between the active volcano Nyiragongo and the tranquil Lake Kivu, Goma is a place of both fragility and resilience. The volcano, which is home to a lava lake, is a constant reminder of the city's vulnerability to natural disasters. However, the lake provides a source of life and sustenance for the city's residents.

The city of Goma is home to a number of talented entrepreneurs who are working on innovative businesses. Talented entrepreneurs like Chris Ayale and Christian Mugisho are flying the flag of the country high around the world. Altech Group was ranked fourth on the Financial Times' list of Africa's Fastest Growing Companies 2023. Nuru, a renewable energy provider, is close to closing a $60 million funding round, with a larger round expected to follow later this year.

The city is home to a number of universities and colleges, including ULPGL, ISG UCS, and others. These institutions are producing a steady stream of skilled and educated workers. Goma is also home to a number of the nation's leading incubators such as Kivu Entrepreneurs, and Un Jour Nouveau Hub, which are providing support to startups.

Goma is a market with tremendous potential for growth. With a population of over 2 million people, Goma is the economic hub of the North Kivu province. It is also the 20th fastest-growing city worldwide. Goma is a major transportation hub with an international airport, and it is connected to other major cities in the region by road and air.

Based on these factors, we believe that Goma is a city with significant potential for venture capitalists. Investors who are looking to invest in early-stage businesses that are addressing the needs of the local and regional markets are almost certainly welcome. The opportunities in agriculture, mobility, healthcare, education, technology, and tourism are tremendous.

These sectors have the potential to grow rapidly and create significant value for investors. A commitment to working with entrepreneurs to help them build successful businesses will result in tremendous benefits for investors, entrepreneurs, and the whole population.

Providing support and guidance to help entrepreneurs overcome the challenges of doing business in a conflict-ridden region, such as providing access to capital, markets, and expertise, as well as helping them navigate the regulatory environment and build relationships with government officials and other stakeholders, will result in an enormous social and financial return for anyone willing to invest in the city.

If you are a venture capitalist looking for an opportunity to invest in a growing market with a strong demand for new businesses and services, then Goma is a city that you should consider.

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