Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about using Lokari — Africa's premier marketplace
What is Lokari?
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Lokari is Africa's premier local business directory and marketplace. We connect buyers with verified local businesses across Kenya and Africa, offering a trusted platform to discover deals, services, events, and more. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or grow your business, Lokari is your community marketplace.
How does Lokari marketplace work?
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Lokari works by connecting local businesses with customers in their area. Businesses list their products and services on our verified directory, and customers can browse, compare, read reviews, and contact businesses directly via WhatsApp, phone, or our in-app messaging. We also feature exclusive daily deals and local events.
Is Lokari safe to use?
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Yes, Lokari is built with safety and trust at its core. All businesses go through a verification process before being listed. We provide buyer protection, verified seller badges, user reviews and ratings, and secure communication channels. Our platform uses bank-grade encryption to protect your data.
How do I list my business on Lokari?
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Listing your business on Lokari is free and easy. Simply create an account, click 'Add Your Business' in the directory, fill in your business details (name, description, category, location, contact info, photos), and submit for review. Our team will verify and approve your listing, typically within 24-48 hours.
How much does it cost to use Lokari?
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Browsing and discovering businesses on Lokari is completely free. Basic business listings are also free. We offer Premium listings with enhanced visibility, featured placement, and advanced analytics for businesses that want to stand out and attract more customers.
What areas does Lokari cover?
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Lokari currently covers businesses across Kenya, with strong presence in Thika, Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and other major cities. We're rapidly expanding across East Africa and the broader African continent. If you're in a new area, you can be the first to list your business and help grow the Lokari community!
How do I find deals and discounts on Lokari?
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Visit the Deals section on Lokari to browse exclusive discounts from verified local businesses. We feature Flash Deals (limited time offers), Daily Deals, and seasonal promotions. You can also set up Smart Alerts to be notified when new deals matching your interests are posted.
Can I leave reviews for businesses on Lokari?
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Yes! Lokari encourages honest reviews to help other users make informed decisions. After interacting with a business, visit their profile page and submit a review with a star rating. You can also upload photos with your review. All reviews are moderated to ensure authenticity and quality.
What is Proof of Visit on Lokari?
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Proof of Visit is a unique Lokari feature that lets you verify you've actually visited a business by uploading a photo from the location. This builds trust in the community and helps other users see real-world experiences at local businesses.
How do I get quotes from businesses on Lokari?
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Use the 'Get Quotes' feature to submit a request describing what you need. Relevant businesses on Lokari will see your request and can send you competitive quotes. Compare prices, reviews, and ratings to choose the best business for your needs — all in one place.
How is Lokari different from other marketplaces?
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Lokari is purpose-built for African communities. Unlike global platforms, we focus on local trust, verified businesses, face-to-face commerce, and community-driven discovery. We offer features like Proof of Visit, Smart Alerts, business comparison tools, and WhatsApp integration that make local commerce seamless.
How do I contact Lokari support?
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You can reach Lokari support through our in-app chat assistant, via email, or through our social media channels on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Our team typically responds within a few hours during business hours.
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