Tech Entrepreneurs Launch “Giri Today” to Connect African Artisans to Global Buyers

Tech Entrepreneurs Launch “Giri Today” to Connect African Artisans to Global Buyers 🌍🛒

In a bid to reshape cross-border trade and boost economic empowerment across Africa, two visionary tech entrepreneurs have introduced Giri Today, a new e-commerce platform aimed at connecting African artisans and businesses with buyers from around the world.

Empowering African Sellers with a Global Reach 🌐

The platform, which is nearing its official launch, was founded by Wale Ayantoye, the former Global Head of Product Compliance & Risk Management at Flutterwave, and Ola John Ajiboye, a Software Engineer at Amazon Web Services.

The name “Giri Today” blends the Yoruba word “Giri,” meaning quick or efficient, with “Today,” symbolizing the platform’s global reach and the ability to connect African sellers with buyers instantly.

A Game-Changer for African Artisans and Businesses ✨

Speaking at a virtual pre-launch event, Wale Ayantoye, the CEO and Founder of Giri Today, emphasized that the platform aims to empower African sellers to reach international markets by eliminating intermediaries. He noted that the platform will provide free product listings for African artisans and businesses, enabling them to offer their products directly to global consumers.

“Our goal is to ensure that sellers can reach global buyers without intermediaries, offering competitive pricing and authentic, quality African products,” Ayantoye said. “Whether you’re in the US, Germany, UK, Finland, or Canada, you’ll be able to shop for authentic African products at local prices, with no friction.”

Leveraging Technology for Seamless Transactions 🤖💡

Ola John Ajiboye, Co-founder and Chief Technical Officer, explained how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, including generative AI, would power the platform to seamlessly connect buyers and sellers. According to Ajiboye, the platform will provide a smooth shopping experience for global customers who want to stay connected to their African roots.

“Imagine being a buyer outside Nigeria wanting to shop for African products,” Ajiboye said. “With Giri Today, you can shop as if you were on the continent, enjoying the same experience without barriers. Our platform uses advanced algorithms to bring high-intent buyers directly to sellers’ storefronts, greatly increasing their chances of success.”

A Call to Action for Local Entrepreneurs 🛍️

The founders also urged local entrepreneurs and businesses to join the platform and be part of the movement to transform global trade. By showcasing their products on Giri Today, African artisans can tap into an international marketplace and boost their sales potential.

“Giri Today is not just about selling products—it’s about creating a community of African entrepreneurs who can thrive on the global stage,” said Ayantoye.

The Future of African E-Commerce 🚀

With its innovative approach to connecting African artisans with the global market, Giri Today is poised to play a major role in the economic empowerment of Africa. As global demand for authentic African products grows, the platform offers a solution to many of the barriers that have historically limited cross-border trade for local artisans and businesses.