Tech expert unveils Yoruba dating app

Technology expert Anjola Awofisoye has introduced the Yetunde app, a new matchmaking application designed exclusively for single Yoruba men and women seeking life partners. With over a decade of experience in software and digital product development, Awofisoye and his team created the app, which they claim is the world's first dedicated to the Yoruba community.

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The idea behind the Yetunde app is pretty much the philosophy of using the old ways of doing things to solve modern-day problems. Back in the day, there was the Yoruba concept of alarina, which is an intermediary between a man and a woman.

The Yetunde app, recently unveiled on social media, aims to help users discover meaningful relationships that can lead to lasting marriages. Its description on Google Play highlights a mission to preserve Yoruba heritage by fostering genuine connections and creating "timeless Yoruba love stories."

Awofisoye explained that the initiative stems from a desire to provide a culturally relevant platform for Yoruba individuals. "The idea behind the Yetunde app is pretty much the philosophy of using the old ways of doing things to solve modern-day problems," he stated. He referenced the traditional Yoruba concept of 'alarina,' an intermediary who facilitates communication and introductions between potential partners.

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The alarina is kind of like the person who knows both parties and passes messages between them. So, the whole purpose of the app is to be the alarina between two people and try to match them based on community practices, knowledge and information about both parties.

"So, the whole purpose of the app is to be the alarina between two people and try to match them based on community practices, knowledge and information about both parties," Awofisoye said. This approach, he believes, increases the chances of finding a compatible partner by matching users based on shared philosophies and principles, particularly 'Omoluabi,' which forms a core part of the app's algorithm. The platform represents a shift towards culture-specific, indigenous dating apps in Nigeria, focusing on intentional dating, long-term relationships, and marriage.

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So, the chances of meeting somebody are much higher, and you don’t end up swiping from morning till night without finding who you are looking for. You are being matched based on philosophies and principles, particularly Omoluabi – which is one of the core foundations upon which the algorithm is built.