Jambo

Jambo is a project developing a Web3 app to educate, provide banking services, and entertain users in emerging markets. It aims to build mobile infrastructure to promote financial inclusion and digital literacy where traditional banking and educational resources are limited.^[1]^[2]^[3]

Overview

Jambo, founded in 2021 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. Jambo aims to create a large Web3 mobile infrastructure network to integrate markets onto blockchain, enabling global digital economy participation.

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

Guided by the belief that "where there’s a phone, there’s a job", this initiative aims to empower individuals in emerging regions by leveraging mobile connectivity to integrate them into the global digital economy. 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]^[14]^[15]^[16]

History

2021/2022

Jambo, established in 2021 by James and Alice Zhang, aimed to advance its platform and reach. That year, it secured $7.5 million in a seed token round. In 2022, it raised $30 million in a Series A token round, initiated JamboAcademy in over ten countries across Africa and Latin America, and enrolled over 200 community leaders through the JamboAmbassadors program.^[23]^[24]^[25]

2023

In 2023, Jambo aimed to advance its product offerings and market reach. The company completed the MVP of the JamboPhone and invested in establishing its initial production line. It also released the JamboApp on Google Play. Moreover, Jambo introduced JamboTalent, including JamboSports, with the Jambo Basketball Team participating in the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). Lastly, the company initiated the Jambo Partnerships program to foster collaborations.^[26]^[3]

2024

In 2024, Jambo introduced the JamboPhone in January, selling approximately 440,000 units by year-end. The company aimed to enhance its presence by signing over 50 top-tier partners and expanding its network to include 700+ business development group chats for JamboPhone and JamboPlay partners.

To meet demand, Jambo scaled its production line to over 200,000 units per month and activated over 1,800,000 wallets. The company initiated token distribution campaigns and featured the JamboPhone at various events and in podcasts.^[3]

JamboPhone

Released on January 11, 2024, the JamboPhone is a collaboration between Aptos Foundation and Jambo, intended to improve access to digital technologies in emerging markets. Priced at $99 and available in over 120 countries, it serves as an entry point to Web3 technology.
It's key features include:

Processor: T606
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB
Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD
Camera: Dual-lens setup
Operating System: Android 13
Battery Capacity: 4900mAh

The device includes pre-installed apps such as Petra and Jambo App, offering users access to decentralized finance, gaming, and educational content.^[5]^[7]^[11]^[12]^[17]
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JamboApp

The JamboApp, launched in September 2023, is a Web3 platform integrated into the JamboPhone, designed to empower users in emerging markets. It offers decentralized finance, gaming, and educational content services, aiming to foster community and enhance digital engagement across Africa. The app provides personalized experiences through smart recommendations, encouraging growth in 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]
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JamboPlay

JamboPlay offers users access to a range of digital gaming experiences, including casual games and immersive adventures. Users can engage in daily check-ins, participate in partner application tasks, and undertake quest-based activities to earn rewards. The platform aims to cater to diverse gaming preferences and interests through its mobile gaming options.^[3]^[7]
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JamboWallet

JamboWallet functions as a gateway to the decentralized world, facilitating user connectivity, transactions, and digital asset management. Emphasizing security and ease of use, the platform incorporates advanced security features to protect user data and earnings. Users can conveniently claim rewards directly through the wallet, which aims to offer a secure and streamlined environment for exploring and engaging with digital assets.^[3]^[7]^[8]
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Funding

In 2021, Jambo raised $7.5 million in a Seed token round, with participation from Coinbase Ventures, Delphi Digital, Tiger Global, and various notable angels in the industry. In May 2022, the company concluded a $30 million Series A funding round led by Paradigm, marking their first investment in Africa. Other investors included Delphi Digital and Pantera Capital. These funds have supported product development and facilitated Jambo's expansion across Africa, including team growth and office openings in 15 countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.^[13]^[6]^[18]