The Perception Gap: Why Africa’s Startups Struggle to Scale and Win Global Trust

Across Africa, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Tech startups once celebrated as disruptors have matured into market-shaping giants with fintech platforms processing billions, drone networks delivering lifesaving medical supplies, and B2B infrastructure firms digitizing entire industries.

Yet, despite their growing scale and impact, many of these companies remain overlooked or misunderstood, both within and beyond the continent. According to a groundbreaking report by Talking Drum Communications, The Perception Dividend (2025), the gap between Africa’s reality and the global perception of its innovation is not just a communications issue; it’s a structural barrier to growth.