Jumia Egypt has partnered with Arabic AI startup Intella to roll out Ziila, a voice-based ordering assistant that allows users to shop online by speaking in the Egyptian dialect.
The feature, unveiled at a special event Tuesday, marks a regional first for e-commerce voice technology tailored to Arabic speakers.
The launch event was attended by key figures from Egypt’s technology and e-commerce sectors.
Jumia Egypt CEO Abdellatif Olama placed the first live voice order on stage, demonstrating the assistant’s ability to understand and process everyday Egyptian Arabic.
Order made easy using Ziila
This partnership allows Jumia users to browse and place orders using voice commands instead of typing or doing manual searches.
Ziila is unique in comprehending natural spoken language used in everyday conversations.
It also provides a seamless and intuitive experience by allowing voice input in the Egyptian dialect.
Users can use the technology instead of browsing or typing to interact with the platform as if they were sending a voice message.
This method makes shopping more accessible, seamless, and natural by appealing to a large user base that prefers talking to navigating or typing.
Jumia’s dedication to introducing advanced tech-driven solutions
Jumia’s continuous dedication to implementing cutting-edge technology-driven solutions that streamline shopping and enhance daily living is reflected in this initiative, which aligns with the company’s mission throughout Africa.
Abdellatif Olama, CEO of Jumia Egypt, stated, “At Jumia, we believe technology is a practical tool to improve people’s daily lives. Launching voice ordering through Ziila in the Egyptian dialect reflects our dedication to creating smart, simple services that meet local customer needs and enhance their experience.”
Omar Mansour, CTO of Intella Egypt, added, “Ziila was designed to be a smart voice assistant that truly understands users—in their own language and dialect—interacting as they speak naturally. Our partnership with Jumia is a direct example of how AI can bring more human, intuitive experiences to digital platforms.”
This partnership is a big step in determining how e-commerce will develop in Egypt and the surrounding area.
It incorporates AI technologies with an Arabic focus, which increases accessibility and brings platforms closer to their users.
About Jumia
Jumia is one of Africa’s top e-commerce sites. JumiaPay, Jumia Logistics, and a marketplace form its foundation.
The marketplace facilitates connections and transactions for millions of buyers and sellers. Jumia Logistics’ network of regional partners makes it possible for millions of packages to be delivered.
For Jumia’s ecosystem, JumiaPay makes it easier to pay for online transactions.
Africa is home to more than 1 billion people and 500 million internet users. Jumia believes that e-commerce improves people’s lives by enabling them to shop and pay for millions of products at the best prices anywhere on the continent.
Additionally, e-commerce is generating new job opportunities for a new generation and new growth prospects for SMEs.
Jumia, which employs more than 5,000 people across more than ten African countries, is supported by well-known shareholders and is run by talented executives who provide a fantastic blend of local and foreign talent.
Jumia is dedicated to making an impact in Africa that lasts. In a dynamic and thriving setting, Jumia provides exceptional opportunities that empower a new generation and generate new jobs and skills.