Nigerian innovators Timothy Dake and Uduma Glory, creators of the first Hausa GPT, have unveiled Kofounda, a voice-powered platform that lets users build full websites using simple spoken commands. The startup, developed under Zeustek Global and ICT Solutions, recently emerged as the only African winner of Microsoft’s Generative AI Challenge, securing $250,000 in funding.
Over 41 million Nigerian SMEs still lack an online presence due to high costs and complex tools. Kofounda aims to change that. “Most Nigerian business owners want websites but find traditional builders too complex or expensive,” said Dake, the CEO and technical lead. “Kofounda eliminates these barriers by letting users simply speak their vision into reality.”
Using AI-powered voice recognition, the platform understands commands in English, Pidgin, Yoruba, and Hausa, creating professional websites complete with images, content, and e-commerce functions. Users can say, “Create a restaurant website with menu and online ordering,” and get a fully responsive site within minutes.
Designed for African Entrepreneurs
Co-founder Uduma Glory, who leads design and frontend development, said Kofounda was built for non-technical users. “We built Kofounda specifically for African entrepreneurs who may not be tech-savvy but have brilliant business ideas. Voice is universal – everyone can speak their dreams.”
Proven AI Expertise
Zeustek’s earlier success with Jummai, the first Hausa GPT built for Global Integrated Education Volunteers (GIEVA), proved their ability to build localized AI solutions. “Our experience with Jummai taught us how to make AI truly accessible to African users,” said Dake. “Kofounda applies those same principles to web development, making it as easy as having a conversation.”
Microsoft’s Support and Market Potential
The $250,000 Microsoft grant highlights global recognition of Kofounda’s potential to bridge Africa’s digital divide. With Nigeria’s digital economy contributing $18.44 billion to GDP in 2023, the platform’s timing is ideal. Most small businesses remain offline, and Kofounda offers an affordable, fast alternative to traditional web design tools.
Beta tests show users can create functional websites 10 times faster than existing builders. The startup plans to expand across West Africa by 2026, adding more local languages and tools tailored to regional needs.
A Step Toward Digital Inclusion
“We’re not just building websites, we’re building digital inclusion,” said Glory. “Every voice command brings another African business online.”
Launch Date: November 2025
Website: kofounda.com.ng
