In a world where many Africans struggle to afford access to global premium entertainment like Spotify and Netflix, the costs are often prohibitive. Spotify charges around 13,000 UGX per month, and premium Netflix can cost 45,000 UGX, effectively locking out most people from enjoying high-quality musical and movie content.

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However, the Shyaka brothers, Neeza Amani Shyaka (18) and Ssuubi Munezero Shyaka (21), have applied the innovative concept of drop-shipping to tackle this challenge and make entertainment more accessible. By purchasing Spotify and Netflix family bundles in bulk, they’re able to resell each slot at just 10,000 UGX per month for Spotify and 25,000 UGX for Netflix, dramatically reducing the cost for Ugandans. This model benefits both the content providers—who are happy to receive payment for their services—and local customers, who can now access premium content at prices tailored to their financial realities. Meanwhile, the Shyaka brothers at Cartel UG enjoy modest profits for their efforts, and everyone benefits.

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The business idea represents the power of African tech entrepreneurs who, using their skills and the vast capabilities of the internet, are creating businesses that can disrupt traditional systems. It's a testament to the potential of young Africans, who, when provided with the right environment and tech education, can lead the charge in shaping their own futures.

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The Shyaka brothers were fortunate to have early exposure to technology through their father, Mbanda Shyaka, and their uncle, Nkusi, who worked in the educational technology sector and ran robotics clubs in schools. From a young age, Ssuubi was building moving robotic arms at just six years old, and both brothers developed strong tech and creative skills. Their artistic education at Aga Khan Nursery and Primary further nurtured their problem-solving abilities and creativity, which helped them conceptualize a solution for the high cost of premium entertainment.

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Their entrepreneurial journey has been one of continuous learning. They've mastered everything from building an interactive website to understanding payment platforms like Xente and Flutterwave. They've also learned to manage customer relations, troubleshoot issues, and maintain a balance between their business and academic pursuits. Neeza is also a semi-professional athlete playing at the division level, while Ssuubi is a dedicated bodybuilder, gym coach, and entrepreneur, each bringing their own discipline and focus to the business. Together, the Shyaka brothers are shaping a future where Africans can access premium entertainment without breaking the bank.