Creativity is Africa’s strongest export, says Sheye Banks

Media and entertainment entrepreneur, Seyebomi Ogunsanya aka  Sheye Banks, has reaffirmed the power of African creativity on the global stage, declaring creativity as Africa’s strongest export.

Banks, founder of Hevy Hub, shared his views while speaking on a creativity and innovation panel at the Africa Blockchain Festival 2025 in Kigali. He stressed that emerging technologies such as blockchain, AI, and digital tools should serve as amplifiers for African art, culture, and storytelling.

“AI, Blockchain, technology should be our global microphone – something that doesn’t change who we are, but makes our voice louder, clearer, and impossible to ignore,” Banks said during the session.

He added that ownership, innovation, and digital access are crucial if African creators are to compete globally:

“If we want African creativity to compete globally, we must leverage blockchain for ownership, AI for innovation, and digital tools for access,” he said.

Highlighting the mission of Hevy Hub — his Lagos-based creative-tech incubator — Banks noted that African creators must be equipped with both artistic and technological proficiency to thrive. According to him, the continent’s creative sector holds immense value but still suffers from a lack of resources and structural support.

“Creativity is Africa’s strongest export. But without tools, support, and proper ecosystems, our potential remains underserved,” he said. “Hevy Hub exists to ensure young African hybrid creators can thrive in a world where culture meets advanced technology. We don’t just focus on building products and stories, we also focus on building the good character behind these products and stories.”