Spotlight: Ideas

Expert opinions & narratives from business leaders in Africa & beyond that have potential for impact across the continent.

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Ten Lessons I Learned Building in African Markets Over The Last Decade

Earned insights on scaling innovation-led businesses across the continent.

September 2022
arusha-tanzania

To scale in African markets today, startups need to run hybrid strategies

Despite all the attention Africa's digital revolution receives, the reality is that this digitization is driven in large part by the analog world of atoms and bits. Entrepreneurs should embrace this.

September 2022
disrupt nothing africa

African startups disrupt nothing

They might wear the disguise of "disruption," but often there simply isn't anything to "disrupt."

September 2022
Pyramid GIF

The hierarchy of venture opportunities in emerging markets

Extending Abraham Maslow's theory of human motivation to ecosystems & markets provides unique insights for entrepreneurs & investors across Africa & elsewhere.

May 2020
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Five Trends to Expect in African Private Equity in 2018

Despite the exit of private equity giant Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR) from Africa last year, the sector is positioned to grow. Here are some themes to look for throughout the year.

January 2018
Harare Skyline

The Numbers Game: Growing A Startup From A Sub-Optimal Market

What can startups in African countries with smaller populations and lower consumption/spending levels do to grow and scale?

August 2017