In Africa’s technology start-up scene, one of the most difficult challenges is attracting and retaining talent. The tools used by Silicon Valley, London, and Paris to hire top talent — namely stock options — seldom work in Africa. With limited exit opportunities via initial public offers (IPOs) and acquisitions, smart young people understand that stock options rarely bring a big payday. Thus begins a cycle of frustration in Africa’s tech sector around the ability to hire and retain the right team.