The technological advancement of commerce, E-commerce is as relevant to society as traditional buying and selling have been for the longest. The relevance of E-commerce can not be overemphasized.

Trading and trade practices are crucial for both the economic development of any society as well as the social development of a community. And the use of technology to develop platforms where buying and selling are conclusively conducted virtually has made trading borderless and thereby enhancing opportunities and growth in the economy.

In Africa, commerce has evolved with the democratisation of e-commerce. In many African countries, various e-commerce startups have emerged over the years. According to reports, there are over six hundred e-commerce startups in Africa with the highest number of these startups in

South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria.

However, a few of these startups not only cater to other African countries, they now have global consumerism. While there are over six hundred of them, here are the top five e-commerce startups in Africa.

Jumia

Established in 2012 in Lagos, Jumia has advanced to become the best-funded e-commerce site in Africa. This e-commerce clientele cuts across different continents and serving customers globally.

Small, Medium and even large enterprises connect with their potential customers on this platform,

The platform spans various industries - from fashion to tech to home interior. In 2014, Black Friday sales were introduced by Jumia. In 2015, a payment gateway was introduced - Jumia pay - to enable their customers to pay for goods without stress. Jumia has in 2016 and 2017 made the list of MIT’s 50 smartest global companies.

Jiji

Standing side by side to Jumia would be Jiji. Founded in 2018, Jiji presents a marketplace platform that both buyers and sellers can meet and carry out transactions.

The platform is accessed from its mobile app which is available for both Android and iOS devices.

In 2018, Jiji bagged the title of the most downloaded app in Nigeria.

Buyers simply search for the product they want to buy, reach out to the seller and when goods are delivered, payment is made.

Only a few weeks ago, Jiji acquired CARS45, an auto-tech startup after acquiring another classified service, OLX, in 2019.

Kilimall

Founded in 2014 in Kenya, Kilimall is currently big in Eastern African country, Kenya and has also garnered customers outside Kenya.

Kilimall offers a variety of products on its platform but it is majorly known for its assorted phone products and accessories offerings.

Kilimall also has a 7-day window period in which goods can be returned after purchase for a full refund in cases where customers are not satisfied with the product.

Takealot

This is probably one of the oldest e-commerce startups in Africa, founded in 2011 and located in South Africa, Takealot has been impressing customers with its versatile catalogue.

One of the attributes of Takealot that makes it stand out among other e-commerce in Africa is its consistency in providing up-to-date products and at a fair price too. Takealot mobile app is available for both Android and iOS users.

Copia Global

This e-commerce startup has its headquarters in Kenya. Founded by Jonathan Lewis and Tracey Turner in 2012.

Copia Global uses both online platforms and strategically placed agents to meet their customers’ needs. This added to the high penetration of their services in Kenya.