Alex Mativo is a Kenyan entrepreneur and tech-innovator who’s making waves across Africa with creative solutions for real problems. Born in Nairobi and raised in Athi River, he studied software engineering at African Leadership University. From a young age, he noticed a growing problem: mountains of electronic waste piling up in his community. Instead of ignoring it, he decided to act, and that decision launched his journey toward building businesses that combine technology, sustainability, and social impact.
In 2014, at just 19 years old, Alex founded E-LAB, a startup that transforms harmful e-waste like old phones, computers, and other electronics into useful, creative products: jewellery, shoes, furniture, and interior décor. Over the years, E-LAB’s work has helped reclaim thousands of tons of electronic waste across Africa, turning environmental hazards into sustainable materials and supporting local artisans.
Alex didn’t stop there. He expanded into market data and retail analytics with Duck, a data-driven startup that helps brands and small businesses make smarter decisions. Duck delivers real-time insights on product performance, demand, distribution coverage, and market trends, giving African companies the tools to adapt and thrive in a fast-changing economy. Because of his creativity, impact, and bold vision, Alex Mativo was recognised on the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list in 2024 and awarded the Queen’s Young Leaders Award.
Alex’s story shows that African problems can be turned into global-scale solutions when young people combine purpose, design thinking, and technology. He proves that the continent’s wastes, data gaps, and market challenges are not burdens; they’re opportunities waiting for innovators brave enough to act.