Africa does not lack entrepreneurs.
It lacks brand infrastructure.
Qyuqa exists to close that gap by building African brands that compete globally and create opportunities.
Our name is inspired by the Swahili word "Kiuka," which means "to go beyond" or "to exceed expectations." At our core, we are committed to helping entrepreneurs do just that. We believe that entrepreneurs have received plenty of capacity-building, but what will truly make the difference is guided, hands-on support as they grow in the market.
We are dedicated to going above and beyond to empower them, so they can exceed their own expectations and thrive in their businesses.
Our Story
We started with a question.
Why does Africa produce so many exceptional products — but own so few global brands?
The answer is infrastructure. Brand equity. Market access. Global presence.
Qyuqa was built by founders who lived this reality — and decided to change it. Navalayo built Kenya's first global running shoe brand. Salima built cross-border commerce from Nairobi to New York. Together, they're building the infrastructure that should have existed a decade ago.
"Our model: reduce the cost of global brand building from $3M to ~$1M — and give 40 African women-owned brands the infrastructure to compete on the world stage."
Our Mission
To build globally competitive African women-owned brands — creating lasting brand equity, enterprise value, and jobs across East Africa.
Our Vision
A future where Africa's most iconic global brands are owned by African women.
Our Belief
Strong brands command 20–50% price premiums. Exporting firms grow 30–50% faster than domestic-only firms. 80% of enterprise value in developed markets is intangible. The opportunity is structural — and it's now.
Two cities. One mission
Nairobi + New York
Qyuqa operates with dual presence: building brands in Nairobi with deep East African market knowledge, and opening doors in New York with a dedicated digital marketplace and retail flagship.
Where African brands are built — and where they land.
