Transforming HR & payroll management in Africa

SeamlessHR, a leading technology company focusing on human resource and payroll management, recently announced a significant milestone with the closing of a $9 million Series A extension funding round. This additional funding brings the total investment in the company to $25 million, signifying a strong vote of confidence from investors in the company's mission to transform workforce management across Africa. Emmanuel Okeleji, the CEO of SeamlessHR, shared insights in an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa about the impact of this funding, the company's expansion plans, and the broader economic and social implications of technology in the region. The new funding injection is a testament to the value proposition that SeamlessHR offers to businesses across the continent. Okeleji highlighted the strategic importance of this investment, especially amidst the challenging fundraising landscape in the technology sector. He expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized that the capital would be instrumental in scaling the company's operations and enhancing its service offerings. With a growing client base of nearly 2,000 companies and close to 300,000 users spanning 20 African countries, SeamlessHR aims to further expand its reach and introduce innovative financial services integrated with payroll solutions for low-income earners in Nigeria and Kenya. The investors behind this funding round, including Helios and the Gates Foundation, bring not only financial resources but also strategic alignment with SeamlessHR's mission. The Gates Foundation's focus on empowering low-income individuals with responsible credit resonates with SeamlessHR's vision to leverage technology for social good. Helios, a prominent investor in Africa, led the round through its venture capital arm, further boosting the company's credibility and growth trajectory. Okeleji emphasized the significance of having global investors endorse and support the company's work, propelling it towards future success. In discussing the role of technology in workforce management, Okeleji underscored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in streamlining HR processes. SeamlessHR's software suite empowers businesses to efficiently manage various aspects of human resources, from recruitment to performance evaluation and payroll administration. By incorporating AI-driven functionalities, the company aims to enhance productivity and provide African organizations with cutting-edge tools to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market landscape. Moreover, as SeamlessHR expands its footprint in the public sector, Okeleji emphasized the importance of regulatory frameworks and collaborations with government entities. By developing tailored technology solutions for the public sector, the company aims to address critical challenges faced by government institutions across Africa. Looking ahead to market projections for 2025, SeamlessHR remains optimistic about growth opportunities in Nigeria, East Africa, and new markets such as South Africa, Zambia, and Botswana. In addressing the urgent need for investments in human capital development, Okeleji highlighted the pivotal role of training and upskilling initiatives in unlocking Africa's workforce potential. With a burgeoning youth population and the imperative to bridge the skills gap, he called for a concerted effort to align educational curricula with the demands of the future economy. By investing in comprehensive skilling programs that cater to a diverse range of workforce segments, African governments can drive sustainable human capital development and boost the continent's productivity on a global scale. As SeamlessHR continues its mission to revolutionize HR and payroll management in Africa, the company stands at the forefront of innovation, poised to drive positive economic and social impact across the continent. With a strong foundation of investor support, a commitment to leveraging technology for societal good, and a strategic vision for expansion, SeamlessHR is primed to shape the future of workforce management in Africa.