Software engineer and tech founder, Babatunde Esanju, has said that the next phase of Africa’s digital evolution will not be defined by flashy apps or new platforms, but by something more fundamental—trust.
Speaking from his experience across fintech, remittance, insurance, investment technology and care platforms, Esanju said Africa’s digital ecosystem is already deeply embedded in everyday life. From payments and savings to transport and healthcare, technology has become part of daily routines. But, he argues, the emotional relationship users have with these platforms is still fragile.
According to him, the modern digital user is no longer impressed by speed alone. Convenience, he said, now shares space with a deeper expectation: reassurance.
“People do not only want fast platforms. They want platforms they can trust. They want to know their money is safe, their personal data is protected, and that somebody will take responsibility when something goes wrong,” he said.
For many users, he explained, digital life in Africa is shaped by both adoption and caution. While millions rely on apps for financial transactions, shopping, mobility and communication, past experiences, such as failed transfers, weak customer service, missing records and unresolved disputes, continue to influence how freely people engage with technology.
