Why you cant copy an Idea from Dubai and paste same model in Africa

Recently, I attended a conference in Abu Dhabi, where I participated in a roundtable discussion with several African founders, primarily from Kenya and Ghana. During our conversation, it became evident that many of these entrepreneurs were enthusiastic about the idea of replicating successful business models from Dubai and applying them in their own countries, such as Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. I expressed my concerns about this approach, arguing that simply copying and pasting ideas from one context to another could lead to significant missteps. It is crucial to understand that each market has its unique characteristics, challenges, and opportunities that must be taken into account. Therefore, I firmly believe that a more thoughtful and tailored approach is necessary for sustainable success in these diverse regions.

Local Opportunities in Ghana

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I spent several months in Ghana, where I had the chance to explore the local environment on foot during my evening walks. These walks opened my eyes to a myriad of local opportunities that could have a profound impact on the community. One such opportunity involves improving access to public toilets, which is a pressing need in many areas. I envision an app designed specifically to help people locate accessible public restrooms, which could significantly enhance public health and convenience. Moreover, I discovered that there is a wealth of locally produced snacks in Ghana that require effective distribution across the African continent, highlighting the potential for innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

africa, ghana, innovation

Understanding Unique Business Models

Every society possesses its distinct characteristics and business models that are crucial to recognize and cannot be overlooked in any meaningful analysis. To truly succeed in these diverse markets, it is essential for entrepreneurs to deeply immerse themselves in the local culture and dedicate time to understanding the unique needs, aspirations, and challenges faced by the community. This involves not only learning about the existing infrastructure but also actively engaging with local stakeholders to build solutions that align with the customs, traditions, and practices that define the area. Moreover, localizing your team and innovations is critical; employing individuals who possess a deep understanding of the nuances and subtleties of the society can provide invaluable insights that are often overlooked by outsiders. Failing to consider these vital factors may result in costly lessons learned the hard way, which could have been easily avoided through proper engagement and understanding.

africa, ghana, innovation

Lessons from Successful Companies

Talabat has achieved remarkable success in Dubai, but it is crucial to recognize that the same strategies may not yield similar results in Nigeria or other African markets. Founders must prioritize the localization of their innovations, adapting their approaches to fit the specific cultural and economic contexts of the regions they are entering. This adaptation involves a deep understanding of local consumer behaviors, preferences, and market dynamics. It requires a commitment to learning and implementing market-specific strategies while continuously refining their offerings to better serve the diverse African population. Entrepreneurs should remain agile and responsive to the unique demands and challenges of these varied markets to foster long-term growth and sustainability. By embracing this localized approach, businesses can build stronger connections with their customers and enhance their chances of success across the continent.

The Ineffectiveness of Copying Models

The notion of merely copying and pasting established business models, as has been attempted in various regions such as Qatar, will not yield the same results in Africa either. The complexities and unique dynamics of the African market necessitate a far more nuanced and sophisticated approach that goes well beyond surface-level replication. Entrepreneurs must fully recognize the critical importance of adapting their strategies to local conditions and deeply understanding the rich cultural context in which they operate. Ignoring these essential aspects can lead to significant failure, as businesses that do not resonate with the local population are extremely unlikely to thrive in a competitive landscape. Ultimately, achieving success in Africa hinges on the willingness to innovate, adapt, and remain flexible rather than simply imitating successful models from elsewhere without considering local realities. A tailored approach that respects and incorporates local insights will be the key to unlocking the vast potential of the African market.

africa, ghana, innovationDavid Olumati Nwanguma
Founder, GrinaPay

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