Journal Entry: Insights from a 3-Week Mission to Kenya
In mid-September, I embarked on a special three-week mission to Kenya, extending from the 16th of September to the 4th of October. This journey differed from the usual one-week trips we conduct, as it required a deeper exploration of the Kenyan market and a comprehensive field survey of several portfolio companies. The mission’s purpose was to gather insights and conduct post-investment field surveys for several investment vehicles. The goal was to understand the current operational challenges faced by these companies and start compiling a restitution documentation or presentation that would guide future business development services support and provide the companies market insights and advancements recurrently in their industries yielding to profitability.
Arriving in Kenya, I felt a palpable excitement for the weeks ahead. Kenya is renowned for its innovative spirit, particularly in technology, conservation, and tourism. I had always heard about Nairobi being a technological hub and a city once celebrated for its cleanliness and hospitality. This trip offered an opportunity to experience it firsthand.
From the outset, the experience exceeded my expectations. The Kenyan market surprised me with its mix of modern entrepreneurial technology and deep-rooted cultural practices. For instance, one of the most exciting discoveries was Dial Afrika, a locally developed and cost- effective alternative to Oracle NetSuite, designed specifically for MSMEs with embedded business process outsourcing (BPO) capabilities. This was a testament to Kenya’s ability to create high-impact solutions tailored to local needs.
Equally impressive was Kenya’s conservation efforts. The landscapes I encountered were stunning, reflecting a country that has preserved its natural environment exceptionally well. Visiting the BOMAS of Kenya was an inspiring experience, where I witnessed the integration of Kenya’s rich cultural heritage with entrepreneurship. This aspect of the trip was enlightening, especially as my perception before the visit was that Kenya’s business landscape was dominated by digital automation and e-commerce. Instead, I found that while technology plays a huge role, entrepreneurship in Kenya is deeply intertwined with its traditions and community- based values.
These insights will prove invaluable as I return to support the entrepreneurs in Rwanda, particularly those venturing into industries similar to those I encountered in Kenya. The blend of culture, tradition, and modern technology presents opportunities for cross-learning and adaptation back home.
Throughout the mission, we visited seven portfolio companies across sectors like fintech, e- commerce, cosmetics, Bus management system and fashion. These companies operate in an ecosystem that fosters innovation, yet they face several challenges that limit their growth potential. Among the most common were marketing, a lack of working capital, operational inefficiencies, and technological gaps. These challenges were compounded by difficulties in expanding into new markets and acquiring partnerships or customers.
For instance, one fintech company was grappling with inefficiencies in last-mile distribution and ERP automation. We proposed bringing in specialized BDS providers to address these issues. These experts will analyze the company’s standard operating procedures and recommend tailored solutions to streamline processes, automate systems, and enhance customer acquisition. To further support market expansion, we plan to facilitate networking opportunities with regional experts who can provide insights on market entry strategies and help the companies pinpoint areas where they can add the most value.
Several highlights stood out during my time in Kenya. The most impactful was visiting the portfolio companies and gaining a real understanding of their operations and challenges. Another highlight was surveying the city, a bustling hub of innovation that remains connected to its natural environment. And lastly, a visit to the animal zoo offered a different perspective, showing how conservation plays a key role in Kenya’s economic and social fabric.
One piece of feedback that left a lasting impression came from Japhette, the CEO of Dial Afrika, who shared, “I have heard of ESP’s work with other portfolio companies funded by the same investment vehicle. Your inputs and advice are very timely and address our key challenges. We are eager to see your proposals, gap analysis, and the support you’ll provide, considering the current market realities.”
This mission not only gave me valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within Kenya’s entrepreneurial landscape but also reminded me of the importance of cross-border collaboration and an incorporation of technology in all sectors of the economy.
As I reflect on the mission, I am convinced that gathering stories and lessons from various geographies will inspire deeper, more impactful engagement with the entrepreneurs we support across Africa.
