At the heart of Côte d’Ivoire, the cradle of a new technological era, resides Soro Karim, a visionary and bold entrepreneur behind a revolutionary technological advancement: the first computer entirely manufactured in Côte d’Ivoire. As the founder of Innov Invest, Soro Karim embodies the spirit of African innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in technology across the continent.
Born in Abidjan, Soro Karim has always been passionate about science and technology. After studying computer engineering at Félix Houphouët-Boigny University, he decided to leverage his knowledge for an ambitious project: locally developing a computer that meets international standards while integrating components and software tailored to the specific needs of West Africa.
In 2010, with initial support from local investors and a group of talented researchers, Soro Karim founded Innov Invest. The goal was clear: to create a technology company capable of competing in the global market while contributing to the economic and technological development of Côte d’Ivoire and Africa at large.
The early years were marked by significant technical and financial challenges. However, with determination and perseverance, Soro Karim and his team overcame these obstacles. They focused their efforts on designing a computer entirely manufactured locally, taking into account the region’s climate, energy realities, and the specific needs of African users.
Our computers are innovative and eco-friendly, tailored to African realities
In 2015, Innov Invest proudly unveiled the result of years of research and development: the first 100% made in Côte d’Ivoire computer. « Our computers have unique features, » he explains. « Our ‘Made in Côte d’Ivoire’ computers are innovative and eco-friendly, tailored to African realities. » These computers are economically and ecologically adapted to Africa, featuring bilingual keyboards, African patterns, and up to 14 hours of battery life. The soon-to-be-launched solar-powered prototype offers a solution suited to African climate needs.
The product, designed 90% locally, is 60% cheaper and has found a market not only locally but also internationally, notably in London and Ghana, despite demand outpacing supply. « To increase production, funding is needed to scale from the current capacity of 50 to 200-300 computers per month. »
For Soro Karim, this achievement represents not only a commercial success but also a symbol of hope and opportunity for an entire generation of young Africans aspiring to engage in science and technology. Convinced that innovation is the key to Africa’s economic autonomy, he continues to push the limits of local technology while encouraging other entrepreneurs to follow in his footsteps.
