By Jaxx Celia
As the world grapples with economic ambiguity stemming from a multitude of factors, the African technological realm is shining luminously, with companies like Flutterwave leading the way. Co-founded in 2016 by Olugbenga “GB” Agboola and Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Flutterwave has progressed to become a prominent African payments enterprise valued at a whopping $3 billion. Agboola perceives an immense potential for startups in Africa, with the digital economy slated to expand over the forthcoming years by more than fivefold its current dimensions. Notwithstanding difficulties such as the COVID-19 pandemic and global supply chain predicaments, African startups raised more than $4 billion in 2021, a significant increase from the previous year’s $2 billion.
Flutterwave’s triumph is attributed to its associations, both domestic and international. The company’s unicorn status has captivated the attention of top Silicon Valley investors and collaborators, leading to an influx of startups in the village. Agboola is convinced that Flutterwave’s success has demonstrated that African startups are genuine investment prospects, and that the roots for future expansion have been sowed.
Flutterwave’s ability to swiftly pivot has played a vital role in the company’s triumph. The firm commenced as a modest payment option for Africans, but expeditiously broadened its repertoire to meet the needs of a more diverse and comprehensive clientele. Its latest shifts, namely the launch of Flutterwave Market and Send, coupled with the acquisition of the creator platform Disha, exemplify the company’s comprehensive vision and fundamental faith in its market space.
Agboola envisions African startups scaling up to the US and vice versa, with businesses evolving into fully developed entities. Flutterwave has been a source of inspiration for African entrepreneurs, attracting soaring investments and working hand in hand with governments to alter regulations on interstate commerce, making them more receptive to business and economically stimulating.
Flutterwave’s success is a testament to the immense potential of African startups. By commencing small, incessantly updating their offerings, and leveraging partnerships to the fullest, startups can create a significant impact in Africa and beyond. As Agboola puts it, “We aspire to motivate others, elevate conditions for Africans, and enable the world to witness the incredible potential of the remarkable people we have here.”
