Jambo is a project creating a Web3 app to educate, bank, and entertain users in Africa. It aims to be the continent's leading Web3 user portal with its "learn, play, earn" model, linking Africa to global applications seeking market entry.^[1][2][3]

Overview

Jambo, founded in 2022 by James and Alice Zhang from the Democratic Republic of Congo, aims to introduce Web3 technology to Africa. The company is developing a super app intended to provide banking, entertainment, and educational services. It seeks to become Africa's primary Web3 user portal with its "learn, play, earn" model, connecting the continent with global Web3 projects.

“We hope to become the super app of Africa, similarly to what WeChat has done in China in the last decade" - James Zhang

Focusing on Africa's young and rapidly growing internet population, Jambo's pan-African app aspires to unify Web3 users across diverse communities. JamboAcademy aims to offer Web3 education through workshops and tutorials in various languages, addressing employment gaps by aligning education with market needs. Additionally, Jambo, in collaboration with the Aptos Foundation, introduced the JamboPhone, an affordable smartphone to enhance digital access in Africa and beyond.^{[1][2][3][4][5][6]}

JamboAcademy

Launched on November 29, 2022, JamboAcademy originally introduced a 10-week learn-to-earn program intended to educate and onboard the next wave of web users across Africa. Later this turned into a program that aimed to facilitate access to web3 games and reduce the barrier to entry for users in Africa through training and education offered in various languages, including English, Swahili, French, and local dialects.

By organizing online and in-person workshops and tutorials, JamboAcademy seeks to empower the local community and contribute to the economic prosperity of Africa's youth by providing tailored educational initiatives in the field of web3 technologies.^[10][4]

"Jambo Academy is super important for us as our first flagship project coming into Africa with education" - James Zhang^[9]

JamboApp

Launched in September 2023, the JamboApp aims to redefine digital engagement in Africa by providing a platform for earning, discovering, and connecting. It seeks to foster a sense of community, bringing together users from diverse backgrounds to share experiences and collaborate. The app offers personalized experiences through smart recommendations, aligning with users' interests and encouraging personal and professional growth across various fields such as art, technology, and fashion.^[3][7][8]

JamboEarn

JamboEarn offers users the opportunity to convert their time into income through gamified quests. The platform aims to streamline the earning process by consolidating various opportunities under one digital platform. Users can easily manage their earnings, track their progress, and cash out, ensuring a straightforward and convenient experience.^[3][7][8]

JamboPlay

JamboPlay offers users access to a variety of digital gaming experiences, ranging from casual games to immersive adventures. The platform aims to provide a diverse array of mobile gaming options, catering to different preferences and interests.^[3][7]

JamboWallet

JamboWallet serves as a gateway to the decentralized world, enabling users to connect, transact, and manage their digital assets effortlessly. The platform aims to prioritize security and user-friendliness, offering state-of-the-art security features to safeguard user data and earnings. JamboWallet intends to provide a seamless and secure environment for users to explore and engage with digital assets securely.^[3][7][8]

Jambo Phone

Launched in February 2024, the JamboPhone is a joint effort between Aptos Foundation and Jambo, with the goal of facilitating access to the digital economy in emerging markets. Priced at $99 and available in over 40 countries, it aims to serve as an affordable entry point to Web3 technology. Integrated with pre-installed applications like Petra and the Jambo App, it offers access to decentralized finance, gaming, and tailored educational content.

Featuring a standard design and powered by a T606 processor with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, the JamboPhone aims to provide a user-friendly experience. Its 6.5" IPS LCD display enhances visual entertainment, while the dual-lens camera setup allows users to capture moments efficiently. With the JamboApp and ecosystem partners preinstalled, users can begin accessing rewards immediately upon activation.^{[5][7][11][12]}

Funding

In May 2022, Jambo concluded a $30 million Series A funding round, led by Paradigm, with its first investment in Africa, and including investors such as Delphi Digital and Pantera Capital. This investment is intended to support product development and expand Jambo's reach across Africa.

The funds have facilitated team expansion and office openings in 15 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.^[13][6]