New A2i member makes water conservation easy and logical Upcoming Event: Unlocking Investment Potential in Southern Africa For members: A2i General Assembly 2025 African Women in Europe Summit in Copenhagen Meet Lisbeth Sylvestre, the founder of our new A2i member, ecoBeta: Water conservation made easy and logicalWhile water scarcity intensifies around the world, one small Danish company is quietly making a big difference, starting with something as everyday as a toilet. We sat down with Lisbeth Sylvestre, director, founder, and owner of ecoBeta, to talk about the flaws of the standard dual-flush toilet, her company's simple yet effective technology, and how their solutions are already helping communities across Africa. Lisbeth, let’s start with the basics. Why should we care about how a toilet flushes? “It might seem trivial,” Lisbeth Sylvestre says, “but a leaking toilet is one of the most wasteful things in a building. People often don’t realize it’s happening, but if a toilet runs continuously, it can waste 400 to 500 liters of clean drinking water in just 24 hours.” According to Lisbeth Sylvestre, the problem lies with the dual-button flush systems that have become standard in much of the world. “They rely on complicated flush valves with many small plastic parts. These parts easily collect dirt and limescale, which can cause the system to malfunction. Also, people often press both buttons at once—or press them too hard—causing the mechanism to jam and the water to run non-stop.” And you’re active in Africa, too? Lisbeth Sylvestre nods: “Yes, and it’s an important part of what we do. We’re already operating in Ivory Coast, Egypt, and South Africa—and we’re expanding. Our technology is particularly well suited for schools, hospitals, and public institutions in regions where water is scarce and the infrastructure is under pressure.” ecoBeta works with NGOs, local governments, and public sector institutions to install their systems and train local technicians. “Our goal isn’t just to save water—it’s also to create jobs and build local capacity,” Lisbeth Sylvestre says. “We’re opening eco-responsible shops, launching awareness campaigns in schools, and helping institutions reduce both their water usage and maintenance costs.” ecoBeta has outlined a clear three-year development plan for further African engagement. The focus is on high-need countries such as Ghana, Senegal, Kenya, Benin, and Burkina Faso, where urban growth and climate pressure are straining water infrastructure. “We’re seeing strong interest from governments and NGOs, especially because our products are low-maintenance and durable,” Lisbeth Sylvestre explains. What’s next for ecoBeta? “We want to continue scaling, but we’ll do it smartly,” Lisbeth Sylvestre says. “We believe in long-term partnerships, and we want to grow sustainably. The more toilets we convert, the more water we save—and the more impact we create.” As the world faces increasing climate pressure, ecoBeta’s humble, high-impact technology could help turn the tide—one flush at a time. Click here to read the full interview. Pre-event to our General Assembly and the Nordic Africa Foreign Minister’s Meeting in Zimbabwe: Whether you are an established business or an investor looking for new frontiers, this event is your gateway to Southern Africa's thriving markets. Join us for an exclusive opportunity to explore untapped Southern African investment opportunities in key sectors such as green innovation, agriculture, health, tourism, and tech. What: A half-day event organized by Afrika Consultancy in collaboration with Access2innovation and EIFO, aiming to leverage the upcoming Nordic Africa Foreign Minister's Meeting (NAUM) in Zimbabwe in October 2025. Who: The event, hosted by Afrika Consultancy in partnership with Access2innovation (A2i) and EIFO. Content:
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When: June 12, 8:30-12:30 Where: EIFO, Haifagade 3, 2150, Nordhavn, Copenhagen, Denmark More info: Contact events@afrikaconsultancy.com Register: https://afrikaconsultancy.com/registration-form/ For members: Welcome to Access2innovation General Assembly 2025, June 12, 1-3 PM. You can join us in Copenhagen: EIFO – Haifagade 3, 2150 Nordhavn, Copenhagen, or Aalborg: GrowAal – C.A. Olesens Gade 4, 9000 Aalborg (1. floor office). The General Assembly is mainly for strategic members of A2i. Network members are also welcome to attend, but they are not able to vote. Registration & Lunch 13:00-13:30 Click here to register for the A2i General Assembly. OBS: Double your investment and come to both the General Assembly and the ‘Unlocking Investment Potential in Southern Africa & Strengthening Nordic-Southern Africa Business Partnerships’ event on the 12th of June. Please use the separate registration links for each event. All are welcome! June 7th: African Women in Europe Summit 2025 in CopenhagenTheme: The Strategic Role of the African Diaspora in AfCFTA Integration The African Women in Europe (AWE) Summit is a biennial event that brings together African women, men, and youth from across Europe. This year’s summit will take place in Denmark, and all AWE members, supporters, and friends are warmly invited to participate. Under the theme “The Strategic Role of the African Diaspora in AfCFTA Integration,” the summit will honor and celebrate individuals in the Diaspora actively involved in implementing AfCFTA. This recognition will span multiple sectors, highlighting the invaluable contributions of women, men, and youth in advancing Africa’s trade and economic integration both locally and globally. |
The Danish platform for innovative, sustainable, commercial solutions to the emerging African markets. See more at www.access2innovation.com
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