#CNNAfrica tech chat: ‘Opportunities here are huge. Why be anywhere else?’

If you were unable to join us, here’s what you missed.

We started with a question encouraging our tech entrepreneurs to think back to when they began:

Q1: What advice would you give to your younger self about launching a tech startup? #CNNAfrica pic.twitter.com/mfGT7aadQk

A1: Being young and crazy really helps when building your startup. When you're older you think too much and don't take risks #cnnafrica

@cnnafricanstart Q1: Prototype, prototype, prototype #CNNAfrica

@cnnafricanstart Q1: Remember that building a business is a long-game, it doesn't happen overnight, so plan to be doing it for a while.

Tech lovers around the world also got involved in the chat using the hashtag #CNNAfrica:

A9: Africa is the last "blue ocean" for tech, the opportunities here are huge. Why would you choose anywhere else? #CNNAfrica

A9: You have a chance to build platforms, ecosystems and products for a unique market. You learn a lot! #CNNAfrica @cnnafricanstart

A9: Entrepreneurs are always told to think outside the box. In Africa, we have no box. Leads to ingenuity and creativity #cnnafrica

The chat provided businesses with the vital tools and inspiration they need to grow their tech startups:

Lessons from #CNNAfrica chat. 1. U need a mentor. 2. Don't hesitate 2 sell out if d parameters are right. 3. Own ur technology from d get go

Key takeaway frm #CNNAfrica Startups r key to solving some real problems, finance is still a prob..a grt story + mentor + prototype cn help

#CNNAfrica The chat was well worth staying up past bedtime. Will be thinking of solving problems borrowing China’s experience! #SinoAfrica

CNN