African Tech Must Integrate Local Values for Success – Degraft Osei Kwame Jnr.

African tech companies aiming to gain a competitive edge across the continent must prioritize the integration of local community values, according to British-Ghanaian tech entrepreneur, Degraft Osei Kwame Jnr.

Osei Kwame, co-founder of Luupli, a social media platform designed to empower creators from underserved communities, emphasized that the success of African tech lies in authentically connecting with users by reflecting communal values and shared experiences.

This approach, he suggests, will set African tech apart in the global market, particularly in sectors like social media and tourism where local players have often struggled to match the reach and influence of global platforms.

“We need to move away from mimicking Silicon Valley’s approach. Africa’s strength lies in its communal way of connecting and sharing experiences. By embedding these values into our technology, we create products that resonate deeply with African users,” he said in an interview with the B&FT.

Luupli, which aims to address systemic inequities in the global creator economy, embodies this philosophy. The platform offers creators fairer monetization, ownership of content, and access to transparent brand partnerships.

Osei Kwame shared that Luupli was created to offer creators—particularly from underserved regions—real opportunities to grow, succeed, and control their work.

“It’s not just about building a platform. It’s about giving creators a chance to thrive, earn fairly, and connect with brands in an open and honest manner,” he explained.

As the global creator economy continues to expand, reaching a value of $104.2 billion in 2022 with expectations to grow to $528.39 billion by 2030, Luupli seeks to disrupt the existing revenue-sharing models that have long been criticized for being inequitable.

The platform’s fair monetization strategies, including transparent revenue-sharing systems, gifting options, and subscription models, are designed to empower creators worldwide, especially those from marginalized communities, to generate sustainable income.

While Luupli has a global reach, Osei Kwame emphasized that the platform is particularly focused on supporting creators in regions where fair opportunities have been limited. “We are committed to ensuring every creator has the chance to succeed, especially those from underserved communities,” he noted.

Building Local Roots and Global Connections

Luupli is already embedded in Ghana’s growing tech ecosystem, a testament to its commitment to local talent and innovation. The platform is currently registered in Ghana and works with local contractors and consultants across various divisions. Osei Kwame revealed plans to establish a physical office in the country as part of their expansion.

“As we grow, we plan to establish a physical presence here in Ghana. This will allow us to invest directly in local talent, contribute to the country’s vibrant tech scene, and foster further innovation,” he shared.

The platform also aims to provide new ways for the Ghanaian diaspora to stay connected with their culture, heritage, and families. With an estimated 4 million Ghanaians abroad, contributing to $4.3 billion in remittances in 2023, Luupli offers a way for diaspora communities to stay engaged with both family and the broader culture.

“Luupli is about bringing people together, regardless of where they are in the world. For Ghanaians abroad, it’s a space to stay connected with their roots and the stories that remind them of home,” Osei Kwame explained.

Empowering Community, Ensuring Trust

Luupli’s design reflects traditional African values of community and collaboration, with features like “Luups” designed to encourage creators to work together and create compelling, engaging content. These features are in line with the platform’s overarching vision of building authentic communities that empower users, creators, and brands alike.

Addressing concerns about the spread of misinformation, Luupli has implemented robust content moderation tools and clear community guidelines to ensure the platform remains a trusted space for users. “We are deeply committed to providing a digital space that users can trust. Our advanced moderation systems and strict guidelines are in place to curb the spread of misinformation,” Osei Kwame stated.

For Ghanaian creators, Luupli offers a chance to reach global audiences and gain recognition. Whether they are musicians, bloggers, or entrepreneurs, the platform provides tools for users to grow their personal brands, share their stories, and make a lasting impact.

Luupli supports various content formats and fosters niche communities, enabling users to connect with others who share similar interests. The platform’s emphasis on authentic storytelling and global engagement offers an exciting opportunity for creators to thrive in a digital space designed to honor African values.