May 15, 5:00 – 6:00 PM (UTC)
The Offline Work Required to Build an Online Startup in Africa" highlights the essential groundwork—networking, market research, logistics, trust-building, and local partnerships—needed to successfully launch and scale an online business in Africa's unique, infrastructure-challenged environment. Offline efforts often determine the viability and sustainability of digital ventures on the continent.
Event Title: The Offline Work Required to Build an Online Startup in Africa.
Description:
Building an online startup in Africa? Be prepared to do a lot of offline work. While the dream is to launch a sleek app or platform, the reality is that success often depends on hustling on the ground—networking, educating users, navigating infrastructure gaps, and building trust in cash-driven, fragmented markets.
In this one-hour virtual discussion, three African startup founders who built digital businesses will share their unexpected journeys—from managing last-mile logistics to convincing skeptical customers, dealing with unreliable internet, and even handling paperwork in government offices. They’ll reveal why building the app was just 1% of the battle, while 99% of the work happened offline.
Why is this especially true in Africa?
Unlike in Europe or North America, where digital adoption is high and infrastructure is reliable, African startups must:
✔ Educate users – Many customers are new to digital services.
✔ Navigate informal economies – Cash still rules, and trust is earned in person.
✔ Solve infrastructure gaps – From electricity to internet, offline fixes are often needed.
✔ Build relationships – Governments, partners, and customers often require face-to-face engagement.
Join us for an eye-opening session that will reshape how you think about building an online business in Africa—because the real work happens offline.
🗓️ [15/05/2025] | 🕒 [09:00PM] |📍 Virtual
Moderated by Jonathan Ntege Lubwama
🔥 Perfect for founders, investors, and anyone interested in Africa’s tech ecosystem!
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