Michelle Watiki

Michele Watiki, COO of Duck Analytics, brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, shedding light on the realities of building and scaling a startup in Africa. She acknowledges the significant challenges that entrepreneurs face, particularly in securing seed funding, which remains a major hurdle for many startups on the continent. Unlike in more established ecosystems, where funding and resources are more accessible, African entrepreneurs often need to be highly resourceful and resilient to navigate financial constraints. Michele also emphasizes the importance of product-market fit, noting that many startups fail not because they lack great ideas, but because they do not properly align their products or services with the actual needs of the market. She highlights that understanding the local business environment and consumer behavior is critical for long-term success. Additionally, she underscores the need for a cultural shift in how failure is perceived. In many African settings, failure is often seen as the end of the road rather than an opportunity to learn, iterate, and grow. Michele advocates for more supportive ecosystems that encourage risk-taking, experimentation, and resilience—key ingredients for fostering innovation. Ultimately, her insights reinforce the idea that while African entrepreneurs face unique challenges, they also possess immense potential. With the right support, access to funding, and a shift in mindset toward embracing failure as a stepping stone, startups on the continent can thrive and make a lasting impact.