Africa’s Airbnb Bongalo plans further expansion

Bongalo, a digital marketplace for African travel accommodation, is set on further market expansion across East Africa as it aims to create Africa's answer to Airbnb. Founder Nghombombong Minuifuong shared insights with CNBC Africa during a recent interview about the company's strategies to compete in a sector dominated by multi-billion-dollar corporations. Minuifuong expressed that Bongalo is not simply looking to emulate the industry giants, but rather to carve its unique path and provide a tailored solution for the African market. The company acknowledges the significant growth potential in Africa, notably driven by the increasing adoption of mobile wallet technology on the continent. Bongalo leverages this trend by offering a sustainable and flexible payment method tailored to the local market, contributing to the region's economic growth. The influx of travelers in countries like Rwanda further demonstrates the rising interest in travel within Africa, with a notable increase in local tourism even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Bongalo specifically targets three key market segments: local travelers moving within a country, those traveling between African nations, and international visitors entering the continent. By catering to these diverse groups, Bongalo aims to enhance the accommodation experience and fill a gap left by larger competitors who may have overlooked the unique needs of local users. In terms of competitive advantage, Bongalo differentiates itself by offering a payment solution that aligns with the preferences and habits of African hosts and travelers. Unlike major players like Airbnb, Bongalo facilitates instant and fee-free payments directly to hosts' mobile wallets, simplifying the transaction process and increasing accessibility to a wider audience. The platform's integration of mobile wallet payments also addresses the concerns of users who are hesitant to utilize traditional online payment methods, providing a secure and familiar alternative. Additionally, Bongalo collaborates with local travel agencies to facilitate bookings for less tech-savvy travelers, further enhancing the user experience and expanding its reach within the market. This strategic approach positions Bongalo as a promising player in the African travel accommodation sector, offering innovative solutions tailored to the continent's unique market dynamics. With a focus on user convenience, financial accessibility, and local partnership, Bongalo is poised for continued growth and success in the competitive landscape of accommodation booking platforms.