The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has launched ShopB.Africa, an e-commerce platform aimed at providing small businesses across Africa with an online marketplace.
Developed by a team of eight young innovators from the Itas community in Bauchi State, the platform was officially unveiled today at CITAD’s office in Kano.
Speaking at the launch, Engr. Yunusa Zakari Ya’u, Executive Director of CITAD, said ShopB.Africa offers small business owners a way to establish their online presence without the complexities of website development or digital marketing.
“Establishing and managing a website can be demanding, but ShopB.Africa provides small-scale business owners with an affordable alternative. They can register their businesses without needing website development or online marketing skills,” Ya’u explained.
He described the platform as a system where entrepreneurs upload their products, provide descriptions, and list their goods or services, making it easier to connect with customers.
Ya’u also called on the Nigerian government to ensure internet access for all, regardless of gender or location.
“Without digital justice, many small businesses, especially those in remote areas, will continue to face barriers in leveraging online opportunities,” he noted.
Nura Sa’id, the lead developer of ShopB.Africa from Intelligent Technology Associate Solution, highlighted the platform’s features, saying it can benefit both small and large enterprises.
“The platform allows businesses to create their own e-commerce websites in just five minutes,” Sa’id stated.
Comparing ShopB.Africa to platforms like Temu, Jumia, and Alibaba, he said that unlike traditional e-commerce marketplaces where multiple businesses operate under a single platform, ShopB.Africa enables users to create their own e-commerce websites, allowing them to sell directly to customers.
“This gives business owners greater control over their branding, sales, and customer interactions,” he added.
Sa’id said the platform supports social media marketing and direct payment processing, helping entrepreneurs promote their products and receive payments.
“We also provide support by connecting businesses with logistics companies to facilitate delivery,” he revealed.
The launch of ShopB.Africa is part of CITAD’s efforts to use technology to support small businesses, particularly in underserved communities.
