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Over the past half-decade, Milton Tutu has embraced life across three distinct African cities: the energetic Lagos in Nigeria, the tranquil Kigali in Rwanda, and currently, the dynamic Nairobi in Kenya. Throughout these relocations, he has been instrumental in transforming marketing frameworks at Selar, while simultaneously nurturing Blurpe, a platform dedicated to connecting no-code professionals across Africa.
Beyond the frequent moves, participation in creator summits, marathons, and a growing appreciation for Kenyan house music, lies Tutu’s overarching ambition: to foster scalable, pan-African technological innovations.
“Africa is brimming with untapped potential,” Tutu reflects. “While many young Africans aspire to relocate to the US or Canada, I encourage them to experience the opportunities right here on the continent firsthand.”
Tracing the Roots of Tutu’s Journey
At just 23 years old, Milton Tutu stepped into the role of growth and marketing manager for Selar, a digital commerce platform designed to empower creators in monetizing their work. His passion for the product was evident, leading to an invitation from the Youthspark Pan African Development Foundation to speak on the burgeoning creator economy. “I shared insights on how African youth can leverage the digital economy and start selling digital products,” he recalls.
His initial trip from Nigeria to Kigali introduced him to a business-friendly environment with streamlined systems supporting entrepreneurial growth. This experience convinced him to relocate to Rwanda within a year, where he also launched Blurpe. “Starting a business in Kigali was transformative,” Tutu notes. “The infrastructure and opportunities there are designed to help enterprises flourish.”
In 2024, as Selar’s Chief Marketing Officer, Tutu spearheaded the company’s entry into the Kenyan market, subsequently moving to Nairobi. “Being physically present in the markets you aim to penetrate is invaluable,” he emphasizes.
His vision extends beyond Nigeria: “I’m always strategizing on how to expand into Nairobi, Kigali, Ghana, and Francophone Africa.”
Harmonizing Three Markets Under One Vision
For entrepreneurs eyeing Rwanda, the W2 entrepreneurship visa offers a gateway to establish and operate businesses within the country, with some regional mobility. This visa enabled Tutu to explore neighboring Uganda and Kenya as well.
While each market demands tailored strategies, Tutu highlights common threads. Kenya presents abundant, yet often overlooked, opportunities. Rwanda’s tech ecosystem is still evolving, but initiatives like the East African Rwanda Innovation Funds by Angaza Capital and the Rwanda Rise Fund from BK Group PLC demonstrate strong governmental and private sector backing for local enterprises.
“Rwanda is maximizing its resources to attract investors, boost tourism in Kigali, and ensure businesses receive funding,” Tutu explains.
He advises creators and entrepreneurs to recognize the nuances of each market. “Kigali’s market size is smaller, and pricing strategies must reflect local purchasing power, which differs significantly from Nairobi and Lagos. Understanding these dynamics allows you to navigate and capitalize on these diverse zones effectively.”
Championing the Creator Economy Across Africa
Under Tutu’s leadership, Selar launched in Kenya in August 2024, rapidly growing its user base to 10,000 within a year. In September 2025, Milton stepped down from Selar, pledging to continue advancing Africa’s creator economy. He revealed plans for a new hardware product aimed at empowering entrepreneurs and creators with reliable device power solutions, eliminating dependence on traditional power banks or unstable electricity.
Meanwhile, Blurpe continues to develop under the guidance of Tutu and his co-founder, Paul Adams, former engineering lead at Selar. “Our mission is to create a platform where creators can monetize their skills and access job opportunities, while businesses can efficiently discover talent,” Tutu shares. The app’s initial version is slated for release in early 2026.
Drawing from his experience, Tutu encourages African tech innovators to immerse themselves in different markets across the continent. “Travel, observe, and understand the unique needs of each locale. A product that resonates with someone in Ajegunle, Lagos, can equally serve a user on Thika Road in Kenya,” he advises.
