Despite its reputation for conflict and instability, Libya is quietly cultivating a thriving tech scene. While many might be surprised by this development, it’s driven by a mix of stability, entrepreneurial spirit, and a unique geographic advantage. Ibrahim Shuwehdi, founder of the successful e-commerce startup Mataa, embodies this dynamic. He emphasizes that Libya has achieved a level of stability not commonly found in other African nations, paving the way for innovation to flourish. His assertion is supported by a number of factors: high internet penetration rates, strong smartphone adoption, and even early 5G implementation. However, despite these advantages, Libya faces significant challenges hindering its tech ecosystem’s growth. Shuwehdi highlights the archaic legal system, riddled with complex rules and regulations that stifle business opportunities. Corruption within the legal and business landscape further adds to this burden. Foreign investment is also hampered by restrictions on foreign ownership and stringent requirements for bringing in goods and services. The absence of readily available venture capital funding leaves startups reliant on limited grants from NGOs and EU-funded projects, creating a sense of a ‘reward-cycle’ that needs more focus. Despite the numerous obstacles, Libyan entrepreneurs like Shuwehdi are forging ahead, proving that even in challenging environments, innovation can thrive. Mataa’s recent success in securing venture funding stands as a landmark moment for the Libyan tech scene, providing a powerful example of entrepreneurial spirit and resilience.