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Editors choice

Lapaire’s Life-Changing Strides In Africa’s Eyecare Industry

by Ndungu Brian November 25, 2022

written by Ndungu Brian

If Jerome Lapaire were to have a sit-down with most people almost five years ago to share his vision for Africa’s eyecare industry, many would have shrugged him off.

Few would have believed that a young man with very little optical health background would manage to literally shake an industry that was already dominated by big, well-resourced international and regional companies.

His vision was bold, ambitious but strategic- ‘to focus on reaching out to the local communities, the mass market that does not benefit from any health insurance.’

This population generally lacks awareness about eye problems and affordable eye care solutions. Therefore, Lapaire Group has had to do a lot of awareness campaigns to spread the word and partner with organizations able to support awareness creation.

Jerome Lapaire, Founder and CEO of Lapaire Group

Also, to adequately serve this mass market, the company has had to harmonize its rates for eyecare services to very affordable margins. It provides free vision tests with professional optometrists and affordable glasses at Ksh3400 (USD30), which includes frame and single-vision client lenses.

“At Lapaire, we focus on accessibility and customer care. Our offer is very simple and our prices are totally transparent. Our vision test is completely free. Our eyeglasses start from USD 30, frame and lenses included, and we provide payment and installment and free delivery within Nairobi,” said Jerome Lapaire, the company’s CEO.

“If you want a certain frame, you won’t have to pay more. The price remains the same. Only the type of lenses adapted to your correction need or treatment/coating will impact the cost. You will never pay more than Ksh10,000 (USD100) with Lapaire if you tick all the options,” He added

Focus on Universal Eye Health Coverage

In its drive to include more people in its healthcare package, Lapaire Glasses has maintained its position among first optical firms in the region to get rid of all entry barriers- that is, consultation fees, vision tests costs and exorbitant cost of spectacles.

From having 10 frames at inception to having more than 100 frames at the moment, it has increased its variety of offers. Turnaround time has also been cut off from four weeks to 48 hours.

To date, Lapaire has tested the eyes of more than 150,000 people and improved the lives of over 90,000 people.

Lapaire’s life-changing strides in Africa’s eyecare industry

“We have been working tirelessly with passion to make everyone-young and old- aware of sight problems and support those in need of glasses. Corrected eyeglasses are too expensive today and remain inaccessible to people who do not have optical health insurance. That’s why Lapaire’s primary mission is to make eyeglasses accessible to all those who look for quality and affordability,” says Oliver Mwanko Wambile, the company’s Public Relations and Communications Officer in East Africa.

Expansion Strategy

Lapaire’s life changing strides in Africa’s eyecare industry

Over the past four years, Lapaire Group has focused on expanding its coverage from East to West Africa. The company currently operates over 40 optical shops across Africa, where its professional teams offer free vision tests with qualified eye specialists and a wide array of frames and lenses.

In 2021, in East Africa alone, the company opened about three optical branches and has further opened 8 optical shops throughout this year (2021). “We are planning to open an additional 10 branches across our 7 geographies this year. By 2023, we shall expand to new countries in Africa,” Lapaire’s Expansion Manager East Africa & English-speaking countries, Roseline Kilonzo says.

“Regarding our portfolio, we have also been growing our selection of frames since the beginning of the year, adding more materials, shapes and colors for men, women and kids. We shall be adding new products and services in the coming year as we identify new needs when analyzing our customers,” adds Kilonzo.

Impact on youth and job creation

Lapaire’s life changing strides in Africa’s eyecare industry

Since its inception in 2018, Lapaire has shown its passion in working and collaborating with the youth. The majority of the company staff across the continent, the PR and Communications Officer says, is between 20 and 35 years old, with 53 percent being female and 47 percent male.

The company now employs over 280 individuals throughout seven African nations. “As we continue to expand, it is reasonable to assume that number will maintain over time, as we now cooperate with numerous universities and schools to assist us in scouting the greatest talents in various fields such as optometry, sales and marketing, among others.”

Lapaire’s Inroads in Uganda

Lapaire-Glasses

Lapaire Group’s strategy of universal inclusion in eye healthcare has also been felt in countries such as Uganda, where figures show that over 2,5 million individuals have eye impairments, and over 250,000 people are blind in both eyes.

According to Oliver Mwanko, these scary numbers stem from lack of public awareness and insufficient number of experts in the sector, notable that the first set of locally trained ophthalmologists graduated in Makerere University in 2019, leaving Uganda with only 40 ophthalmologists currently operating in a country of over 40 million people.

To help manage this crisis, Lapaiare has been adding new branches in Uganda almost every month. It first opened its first branch in the country in 2020. Today, it has 10 locations across the country; Seven of which have opened this year.

The company continues to reach its mass market through communications and partnerships. It has launched various marketing campaigns across different cities and also uses social platforms to grow its brand. Additionally, the company uses traditional marketing channels and also develops innovative ways of communicating with the general public.

“In Kampala city, we have launched our very own set of billboards and in Mbarara, we have partnered with boda boda operators by providing them with safe reflector jackets to sensitize the community on the free vision tests offered by Lapaire,” Oliver explains.

As the world celebrated the ‘World Sight Day’, under the theme “LOVE YOUR EYES”, Lapaire could not help but reckon the kind of impact it has created in the region and the mission it sets its eyes on in Africa.

During the week, the company emphasized the importance of regular eye exams across the region by assisting those who needed eyeglasses but couldn’t afford them. In Uganda, the company’s employees held a press conference in collaboration with the local and national press to highlight the importance of maintaining good eye health and encouraged everyone to visit Lapaire branches across the region to have their eyes tested for free.

November 25, 2022 0 comment

Kisumu Governor hosts county heads from Five Nyanza Counties to discuss development agenda

Kisumu Governor Hosts County Heads From Nyanza Counties To Discuss Development Agenda

by Ndungu Brian September 22, 2022

written by Ndungu Brian

H.E. Prof. Anyang’ Nyongo’ on Thursday hosted county heads and representatives from the Five Nyanza Counties bordering Lake Victoria under the auspices of Port City Kisumu.

The meeting focussed primarily on the Lakefront regeneration initiatives to spur economic growth and development in the region

Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyongo’ presents The Kisumu Handbook ‘Soaring With The Eagles’ produced by the East African Business Times

The meeting was set to discuss the development agenda in the lake region, focusing on the five neighbouring counties. As a special purpose vehicle, the Kisumu Lakefront Development Corporation is in the process of engaging partners to help spur the growth of Blue economy in the region.

In attendance were Governor Gladys Wanga of Homabay County and Migori Deputy Governor Joseph Gimunta Mahiri.

September 22, 2022 0 comment

Editors choice Special reports

Closing The Eye Care Gaps In Africa

by Ndungu Brian September 7, 2022

written by Ndungu Brian

Jerome Lapaire exemplifies Harriet Tubman’s famous phrase, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer” Lapaire, the founder and CEO of Lapaire Group, understood the anguish millions of individuals in Africa had as a result of eye care issues.

He chose to forego a life-changing job path in order to dive into the murky waters of entrepreneurship in the hopes of putting smiles on the faces of individuals who could not afford proper eye care services.

Jerome Lapaire Chief Executive Officer Lapaire Glasses East Africa

After successfully graduating in Law from the University of Geneva, Lapaire switched and started working on a few entrepreneurial projects in Hong Kong and London. He would in March 2015 move to Nairobi, Kenya, where he joined an impact investment fund and worked in a Pan-African market research agency to better understand the local market.

In 2017, while working in Nairobi, he noticed that several of his colleagues couldn’t see well from far. They had uncorrected refractive errors and accessibility to eye care services was the main reason.

“Indeed, taking a consultation with an eye specialist and buying eyeglasses in Kenya requires a lot of time and money, which most people cannot afford. So, I decided to read about this topic and learnt a lot about it,” he says.

Mr. Lapaire had numerous reasons to be concerned. The number of persons suffering from vision difficulties was quite high! To make matters worse, they were becoming worse by the day. According to a 2019 World Health Organization (WHO) estimate, At least 2.2 billion people worldwide suffer from vision impairment or blindness, with over 1 billion cases possibly preventable or neglected.

The first World report on Vision, issued by WHO ahead of the World Sight Day on 10 October 2019, revealed that more than 1 billion people worldwide are living with vision impairment because they do not get the care they need for conditions like short and far sightedness, glaucoma and cataract.

Further, estimates from the world health body reveals that 550 million people need glasses in Africa. Unfortunately, only about 1 percent own a pair. In Kenya alone, more than 7.5 million people are in need of interventions to prevent loss of vision, restore vision or need rehabilitation to improve performance.

With this background knowledge, Lapaire was not going to sit back and watch the local

community suffer.

Founding Lapaire Group

Lapaire glasses

In February 2018, he assembled a very small team with two interns (one of them Roseline Kilonzo, who is the Company’s East Africa Regional Manager today), gathered personal funds

and launched Lapaire Glasses in Nairobi.

“We started small, by partnering with medium-sized businesses to conduct vision tests at the workplace and propose affordable but quality eyeglasses to the employees. Shortly after, we caught the eye of a venture capital fund- Saviu Ventures, that decided to support our expansion across Africa,” the CEO says.

Just as the company was growing its tentacles across the region, a pandemic hit in 2019. The first wave of Covid boxed the company. Most countries imposed lockdowns and customers could not travel to do the vision tests at Lapaire shops.

They were obliged to reschedule clients appointments multiple times, leaving consumers without a backup alternative for a considerable time. Despite the difficulties, the firm persevered, engaging with clients even while the branches were closed.

“We quickly put in place all of the essential safeguards to prevent anyone from becoming infected in our optical stores and to reassure our consumers that they are in a safe location”

We operated with a smaller staff for a while, and since then, our workers wear face masks, and customers must clean their hands with sanitizer before entering our stores. “Eyeglasses and optical equipment are cleaned after each customer uses them.”

Lapaire services and strategy

The firm offers free vision tests with certified optometrists as well as low-cost glasses starting at Ksh3400 (which includes frame and single vision client lenses). The huge range of frames comes in a variety of forms and colors.

“Depending on your corrective needs, our optometrists can recommend single vision, bifocal, or progressive lenses.” We also recommend different coatings and treatments for your lenses based on your lifestyle and needs,” adds the CEO, adding that anti-scratch hard coating and anti-glare coating are standard on all lenses. Photochromic lenses to guard against UV light, a popular alternative because of their capacity to tint in the sun and provide additional protection on the outside, are also available, among other unique services.

It’s also worth noting that all of Lapaire’s glasses and sunglasses are named after Africa cities and islands.

Lapaire Group has recorded major breakthroughs overtime, especially on its production levels and delivery time. It has increased the number of frames from 10 at the beginning to over 100 frames currently. Delivery time of products to clients has also reduced from the initial four weeks to 48 hours.

The company’s business strategy is lean, with a great focus on accessibility and customer care.

The offers are simple, and prices totally transparent.

“Our vision test is completely free. Our eyeglasses start from KES3,400, frame and lenses included, and we provide payment by installments as well, popularly known as lipa mdogo mdogo,” says Oliver Mwanko Wambile, Lapaire Group’s Public Relations & Communications Officer in East Africa.

Building trust and confidence

Oliver Wambile, Head of public Relations, Lapaire Glasses East Africa

Lapaire has continued to place a strong emphasis on quality and openness in order to be competitive in a very cutthroat sector. In an effort to prevent fakes, the firm purchases all of its goods directly from the manufacturer and only sells Lapaire-branded frames.

Technology and innovation continue to be a key pillar driving the business’ expansion. Given that the business is pan-African, it employs digital technologies internally to facilitate communication and productivity.

“Our optical shops are all connected to a centralized system and linked to optical labs to process the orders in the shortest time possible. Externally, we communicate frequently through our social media and propose online bookings and orders to our customers through our website,” Jerome says.

We also provide a cutting-edge service, with ambitions to expand it further, that includes free vision exams, reasonably priced glasses, and an installment payment plan.

Crossing borders

Louis Gascoin Chief Operations Officer

Following its successful introduction in Kenya, Lapaire Group has now expanded its coverage from East Africa to West Africa, with over 35 optical branches in operation across Africa. The firm serves patients in Kenya, Uganda, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Mali, Benin, and Togo.

“By the end of 2022, we intend to reach 50 branches throughout our seven regions, which means we’ll focus on new communities and cities. We plan to grow even more in 2023 and probably open new countries in sub saharan africa,” said Louis Gascoin Lapaire’s Chief Operations Officer.

“Regarding our portfolio, we have also been growing our selection of frames since the beginning of the year, adding more materials, shapes and colors for men and women, but also kids.”

Closing the eye care gaps in Africa

Over the next few months, the company’s top priority will be to expand, with plans to open more locations around the region in order to “make everyone – young and old – aware of sight difficulties and help those in need of glasses.”

Corrected eyeglasses, according to Mr. Lapaire, are too expensive today and remain out of reach for those without optical health insurance. That is why, as per Lapaire, their major objective is to make eyeglasses available to anyone who seeks quality and is cost conscious.

The door to potential remains open for the forward-thinking firm, which aspires to “be the

pan-African leader in the optical market and reach more than 7 nations over the next five

years.”

September 7, 2022 0 comment

Editors choice Special reports

KBL Partners With Alpha Romeo for the 50th Edition of Concours D’Elegance

by Jacky Muraba August 31, 2022

written by Jacky Muraba

The Concours D’Elegance (properly pronounced kon-koor del-i-gahns), dates back to the 17^th Century when the famous and wealthy of European society gathered in the cities of France to celebrate and socialize, as unique forms of art, the latest automobiles as well as the latest of women’s fashion and design.

The early Concours were leisurely social affairs, where lighthearted competitors were rewarded with rosettes. However, man being the perpetual competitor, these events became more defined as time went on.

Trained judges examine each vehicle thoroughly and in its entirety. They rate each and every component. Only those vehicles that are perfect examples are judged as Concours quality, and are considered eligible for a class trophy.

The Kenyan Concours D’Elegance

The Kenyan Concours d’Elégance was founded in 1971 and has been held every year since. It is organized by the Alfa Romeo Owner’s Club Kenya and is sanctioned by the Kenya Motorsports Federation and the FIM Africa. This event has grown to be the biggest motoring event in Kenya and it attracts 10,000 visitors on average.

This year, Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) through its beer brand White Cap will be the official Responsible Drink partner for the 50th edition of the Classic Car extravaganza, Concours D’Elegance.

The partnership will see the company extend its ongoing motorsport strategy that has involved it more recently in several motorsport events under the Kenyan Motorsports Federation umbrella with the aim to encourage the culture of responsible drinking and behavior within the adrenaline sport.

The sponsorship adds to KBL’s already significant participation in several sporting disciplines around the country including; Football, Rugby, Athletics, Volleyball, and Golf among others

Speaking on the partnership, Alfa Romeo Owners Club Chairman, Peter Wanday said.

“We are delighted to partner with KBL through their brand Whitecap welcoming them on board as an official responsible drinking of the 50th Edition of the Concours D’Elegance.”

Speaking during the announcement of the partnership, EABL Group Corporate Relations Director Eric Kiniti noted that supporting this specific proposition was a strategic move at connecting with its motorsport consumers who enjoy both adrenaline sports and the exciting appreciation for Classic vehicles.

Concours D’Elegance is one of the most exciting motorsport events in the calendar year. It brings together the best of both motorsport worlds. The thrill of vehicles and the love of classic vehicles.

He added “This year, as KBL we come on board for the event through our brand Whitecap which mirrors the goals and objectives of the classic event. We strive to create world-class experiences which we feel Concours D’elegance has repeatedly done over the past 50 years.”

KBL also celebrating a milestone moment this year as it marks 100 years in the Kenyan market has highlighted motorsport as a key connection driver with its consumers as it seeks to ramp up its sporting interactions during its Centenary year and onwards.

All About This Year’s Concours D’Elegance

During the partnership announcement, Bob Dewar, Concours D’Elegance Event Director reminisced on how far the event has come.

‘Concours D’Elegance was initially held at the Embakasi motor racing circuit, a venue that could accommodate around 2,000 people. When a legal issue with the venue cropped up, we resorted to the Ngong Racecourse,’ he said.

‘I have never seen a huge crowd as I did on the first Concours D’Elegance at the Ngong Racecourse. The new venue accommodated 4,000 people. A number that seemingly keeps growing. The beer ran out. Food ran out,’ Bob said, eliciting laughs from the crowd in attendance.

2022 marks 50 years for the classic event, one of the world’s foremost classic and vintage leisure motorsport events with representation from all over the world. 30 international entrants are expected for the Golden Jubilee Edition.

EABL intends to use the event as an awareness campaign around responsible drinking, with regard to its commitment towards creating a healthy and safe drinking culture.

“Concours’ attracts over 10,000 fans to the Ngong Racecourse grounds to enjoy. As we create experiences, we are cognizant that we always need to enjoy our motorsport experiences in a responsible manner. This is why as KBL we continue to champion responsible drinking throughout all our interactions.

We recognize motorsport like any other sport has a level of risk when dealing with intricate machines. Our role, therefore, is to reinforce the continued messaging around the dangers of excessive drinking and implore all enthusiasts to drink better not more to ensure a safe and world-class experience for years to come.” Eric Kiniti, EABL Group Corporate Relations Director said.

This year’s Concours D’Elegance will be on 25^th September, at the Ngong Racecourse. The event is from 9 am to around 5:30 pm, accommodating the whole family.

So channel your Kenyan ‘sherehe’ spirit, put on some classic, vintage outfits, get down to the Ngong Racecourse, and have fun.

Thanks to Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its beer brand WhiteCap, you’re assured that beer won’t run out this time.

Remember to Drink Responsibly.

August 31, 2022 0 comment

Editors choice Elections 2022

Tick Tock 5 Days To The Big Decision

by Jacky Muraba August 3, 2022

written by Jacky Muraba

According to Capital Markets Authority Statistical Bulletin Q2-2022;

Kenya’s overall year-on-year inflation stands at 7.90% as of June, this year,
Exchange for the Kenyan Shilling against the US Dollar at 117.83, a -9.26% currency depreciation, as of June,
Kenya’s total debt is at Ksh12.24 trillion,
Unemployment rates as at Q1-2021, indicates that 1.2 Million Kenyans are unemployed. In terms of age group, the highest percentage of unemployment was recorded among youths between ages 20-24 at 16.3%, followed by a 9.1% percentile among youth between ages 25-29.

What this means is, Kenyans will be, on August 9^th, voting in a new president amid a surge in the cost of living and a debilitating drought that will challenge whoever takes up the post.

With every election, Kenyans are inundated with new jargon. However, one particular jargon that remains etched in our minds is the Form 34A and Form 34B.

Raise your hand if you still have no idea what these forms are or their significance…

Relax. Here’s a short summary of their functions and importance. Lend me your ears, in this case eyes, for a few.

FORM 34A

Form 34A is the first form used to tabulate the presidential election results. The document is prepared and filed by the Presiding Officer after completion of vote counting at the polling station.

It contains the following details:

The total number of registered voters in that polling station,
The total number of valid votes cast,
The total number of votes garnered by each candidate,
The total number of rejected, objected and disputed votes.

Political party agents or candidates are required to sign and verify that the contents of that form are correct before the results are relayed.

The form is prepared in six copies, and are distributed in the following manner:

One copy is placed in the ballot box with the presidential votes,
Another is availed to the Constituency Returning Officer,
Three are distributed among the present agents of each presidential candidate,
And the last one is clearly displayed outside the polling station, either on the door or wall. Be sure to be on the lookout for this particular one.

FORM 34B

Form 34B collates the presidential election results. The form merely summarizes Form 34A.

It is prepared by the Constituency Returning Officer (CRO), but only upon receiving Form 34A from the polling station level.

The form contains the following information:

Name of the polling station and code,
Number of registered voters in that station,
Number of votes garnered by each candidate and,
Total number of valid votes cast.

If agents or candidates are presented, they should be afforded an opportunity to verify the details filled in the form and thereafter sign it off.

The CRO then hands over the form to the chairman of the IEBC, who is the Returning Officer for the presidential election, for the results to be announced.

file footage of polling station

What Next After The Forms…

By law, IEBC must declare the presidential election results by August 15^th, a week from the date of election.

If no petition against the election’s outcome is filed at the Supreme Court, then the new President will be sworn in on Tuesday, August 30^th, paving way for President Uhuru Kenyatta to retire.

Should the presidential outcome be challenged with a petition, such must be filed by August 22, holding that IEBC declares the results on 15^th.

Should that happen, the Supreme Court will have 14 days to consider and determine the petition by September 5^th.

If the election is upheld, the new president would be sworn in on September 13^th allowing President Kenyatta to retire.

And if the presidential election is nullified by the Supreme Court, a fresh election must be conducted by November 4^th being the last day of a 60-day requirement.

However, if the August 9^th election doesn’t produce a clear winner in the first round, a fresh election, should be held within 30 days.

My Parting Shot

Elections in Kenya remain a period of high tension, mainly due to the fact majority votes are cast along ethnic lines and in previous years, this has sometimes spilled over into nationwide violence with people being attacked, merely on the basis of ‘which community they come from.’

Kenyans recall the large-scale violence that erupted after the 2007 elections. The disrupted poll was followed by weeks of ethnic-based violence in which lives were lost and about 600,000 were uprooted from places they called HOME.

Many still remain displaced to date.

These recent histories have raised questions about Kenya’s ability to hold free and fair elections- and the 2022 elections will most likely provide a benchmark for how much progress has been made.

With only 5 days left to the election, reduce the emotional connections with the candidates you support.

Just like a good pilot, you can fall off the high skies. You are either reducing or you need to start reducing your speed gradually… starting now.

Lower emotional connection will open your eyes to accept that things can go the other way and that life will continue.

Start imagining life under the leadership of the candidate you oppose. Start accepting its possible… Because that’s why they vied in the first place.

Remember whoever you choose, highly influences the shape your life takes in the next five years.

Keep it peaceful. We have lost so many lives in 2007, in 2017… You could be the next statistic every-time we recall how many lives have been lost due to election violence.

There’s still life after elections, yeah?

Thank you.

Sources: Nation Africa, LinkedIn, CMA Statistical Bulletin Q2-2022.

August 3, 2022 0 comment

Editors choice Featured

USAID Kenya Investment Mechanism Learning Event 2022

by Jacky Muraba July 22, 2022

written by Jacky Muraba

Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn; The beautiful thing about learning is that it can never exhaust the mind, and nobody can take it away from you.

Did you know 8 out of 10 businesses in Kenya are informal? By informal businesses I mean spaza shops, hawkers, pavement vendors and street vendors, and Laundromats and other small businesses even from a person’s home.

I believe, like me, you know of your trusted Mama Mboga down the street, but you didn’t really know such a biashara is regarded to as an informal business, or that it makes up about 85% of Kenya’s business sector.

Even more interesting, these informal businesses make up MSMEs… Yet again we’ve heard the term on so many occurrences. How many genuinely know what MSMEs stands for?

MSMEs are Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.

I wouldn’t have learnt more about the terms if I hadn’t attended USAID Kenya Investment Mechanism’s Learning Event held on 19^th and 20^th July at Movenpick, Westlands.

Again, learning can never exhaust the mind.

The Kenya Investment Mechanism (KIM) is a five-year USAID project that is facilitating $520 million in investment for key sectors of Kenya’s economy, including agriculture (which is supported by Feed the Future), health; water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH); clean energy (supported by PowerAfrica) and infrastructure; women-owned businesses; and regional trade and investment opportunities under the Prosper Africa initiative.

The project supports mobilization of private investment and accelerates enterprise-driven development.

Kenya Investment Mechanism addresses two principal market failures that discourage investors from financing Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs); insufficient quality consulting services and limited availability of financial products tailored to these sectors.

It builds the capacity of Financial Institutions (FIs) and Business Advisory Service Providers (BASPs) through training and technical assistance. Much of Kenya Investment Mechanism’s focus is on the agricultural sector, which contributes one-third of Kenya’s GDP and accounts for nearly 70% of Kenya’s employment.

Anyway, let’s delve further into the event.

Shall we?

Anthony Mbithi Head of agribusiness Family Bank, Peter Ndirangu- Head of finance FACTS, Anne Mwenje Financial Institutions’ Director KIM, David Njiru CBO Juhudi Kilimo, Antone Wambura Product Development Expert, Nina Shaban Discussion Moderator

All About the Kenya Investment Mechanism Learning Event

The event themed ‘Access & Impact: Transforming Financial Markets for shared prosperity’, brought together Business Advisory Service Providers, Financial Institutions, business executives, international investors, senior government officials and multilateral stakeholders to share, connect and learn from each other.

The two-day event convened financial stakeholders who discussed nuances in promoting access to finance and investments for SMEs and agribusinesses in Kenya and across the region. It also promoted cross-learning on solutions and best practices in mobilizing capital and investment for Kenyan SMEs and the agriculture sector.

Day One: Speaking at the Learning Event’s official opening, was a man whose eloquence, energy and ability to lighten up the audience had me captivated. Hon. David Osiany, Chief Administrative Secretary, CAS, Ministry of Industrialization, Trade & Enterprise Development lauded Kenya Investment Mechanism program’s journey of unlocking capital for local entrepreneurs.

“The Kenya Investment Mechanism program excites me. To focus on agriculture is inspiring, and I’m elated at this program’s journey of unlocking capital for our local entrepreneurs and providing quality consulting services that have previously been a gap for our business people. I look forward to us exploring opportunities that will benefit our business people while also meeting the interests of the American people. Only then can we speak about shared prosperity.”

Hon. David Osiany CAS Ministry of Industrialization, Trade & Enterprise Development

During the panel discussion on ‘Financial Innovation Development & Uptake’, I learnt that MSMEs tend to collapse because;

One, on most occasions MSMEs don’t have the proper documents and records relating to their business, as compared to formal companies.
Two, MSME owners have the tendency to open up new businesses every time another fails. If you take a moment to particularly reflect on this, you realize how true this fact is.
Three, Lack of professionalism. Think about the local kiosk at your place. Who’s been ‘employed’ to work there? A family member to the owner in most cases, yes? MSMEs tend to employ on basis of family more than how skilled or experienced the person actually is in that particular field.
Business Strategies and Seasonalities. Seasonality affects a number of MSMEs. For a farmer some products can only thrive on specific months in a year. For someone selling umbrellas or success cards, these businesses have specific seasons when business is booming. MSMEs need to come up with business strategies that deal with the on-season and off-season for the business.

These issues in turn, put off even Financial Advisors and Institutions from investing in the MSME.

According to Anthony Mbithi, Head Agribusiness Segment, Family Bank, Kenya Investment Mechanism looks at both sides; the financial institutions and SMEs. He also advised MSME owners to involve financial institutions at every step of the way.

“SMEs require much more than financing, which isn’t necessarily needed immediately. There are so many important issues SMEs need to deal with immediately. Coming to your financial institution at the last minute won’t help you, the bank will still need to follow its protocol. You need to prepare your bank about what to expect, especially in the case of seasonality. Financing and receiving financial support depends so much on how you work and relate with your bank.”

The number one challenge faced by women-owned SMEs (W-SMEs) in Kenya is access to credit.

In a discussion dubbed ‘Unlocking Capital for Women Entrepreneurs’, USAID’s Kenya Investment Mechanism convened a panel made up of financial institutions, business advisory service providers, and women entrepreneurs to have a conversation exploring the challenges and opportunities in unlocking capital for W-SMEs.

Through its partnership model, Kenya Investment Mechanism has partnered with BASPs to help W-SMEs become investment ready and package deals that will attract investment. Kenya Investment Mechanism also partners with financial institutions to develop tailor-made financial solutions for W-SMEs. As a result, Kenya Investment Mechanism has mobilized more than $57.3 million for W-SMEs to develop.

Charity Ndegwa, Co-founder & Director Operations
Exotic EPZ during panel discussion on unlocking capital for women entrepreneurs

Day Two: Out of the 47 counties in Kenya, 29 have an enabling enterprise. This means you can thrive in these counties. The 29 make up the blue savannah and boast of some of the most valuable features and aspects of our country.

Is what I learnt from Tendai Mtana’s, CEC Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Co-operatives – County Government of Mombasa, Keynote speech on Leveraging incentive fees model for governments to do business with the private sector.

Discussions revolved around the Private sector’s perspective on investment landscape in Kenya, leveraging incentive fees for governments to do business with the private sector and investing in Kenya’s aquaculture sector.

“The state is an important enabler, and has the responsibility to create an enabling environment that allows businesses – both large and MSMEs – to thrive and maximize the comparative advantages our local industries have.”

Wangari Muikia of the EGCL Institute, giving a keynote address on the private sector’s perspective of Kenya’s investment landscape.

The Kenya Investment Mechanism Learning Event

Many Kenyan SMEs don’t know that the capital markets are an available source of funding. A panel of capital markets experts demystified the capital markets and explained how local SMEs can tap into them to raise significant capital for growth and expansion.

USAID’s Kenya Investment Mechanism has however supported the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) to revise regulations that will simplify the listing process and offer Kenyan SMEs an important alternative source of financing.

Phoebe Owuor CEO Lamiro Consult, Dave Oketch Aquarech, Samuel Ondiek DAS Group, Edna Odallo MD Afriscope Ltd, Noah Kipkemboi Discussion Moderator

Aquaculture contributes to 17% of fish creation in Africa, and Kenya ranks as the fourth biggest producer of cultivated fish in Africa, producing 100,000 metric Tonnes of fish annually.

Kenya’s fish consumption is at 400,000 metric Tonnes annually, leaving a deficit of 300,000 metric tonnes.

The final panel discussion at the USAID Kenya Investment Mechanism Learning Event focused on the aquaculture sector, investment opportunities along the value chain, and how the use of technology can make the sector more productive and profitable.

Even with recent advancements, the Kenyan aquaculture industry requires substantial additional investment to catch up to global and regional leaders, China and Egypt. Fish farmers, marketers and other ecosystem actors face myriad challenges to growing and developing the sector to realize its potential.

These issues include; low awareness and poor understanding of the sector, the unstructured nature of the relatively new sector, and high taxes on aquaculture inputs.

Working with BASPs such as Afriscope, Kenya Investment Mechanism has mobilized capital from FIs for SME players in the industry responding to different needs in the aquaculture sector.

My Take

Adulting is mostly about trial and error. Every day, the youth are setting up businesses as side hustles, especially on online platforms. Today one is selling, say clothes online, a different person is a phone technician somewhere.

They, well we since I’m part of the age-gap, need to learn early on matters money and financing, how to run and manage these side hustles so that they serve us in the long run, how to join Capital markets. Rather than go through life in a trial-and-error manner.

I would really love to see a higher young persons and youth involvement in future Kenya Investment Mechanism’s Learning Events.

Other than that, boy do I feel wiser on matters capital markets, MSMEs, Agribusiness Financing and more. Learning, yeah?

Thank you for your time.

July 22, 2022 1 comment

Editors choice Special reports

Nelson Mandela International Day

by Jacky Muraba July 18, 2022

written by Jacky Muraba

Nelson Mandela has many accolades. He’s an iconic figure that triumphed over South Africa’s apartheid regime. He was a human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, and an international peacemaker. And he was the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa (no biggie).

A human rights lawyer, Mandela, who was affectionately known as Madiba around the world , dedicated his life towards empowering people.

With his deep commitment to justice, human rights and fundamental freedoms. His profound belief in the equality and dignity of every man and woman and relentless engagement for dialogue and solidarity across all lines and divisions. Mandela’s relentless pursuit for equality was paralleled with his status as the founding father of peace in South Africa.

So you see why the United Nations General Assembly would want to celebrate his life.

Commemorated on 18 July, Nelson Mandela’s birthday, this day helps us reflect on the values and lessons we can learn from him. It celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact.

The day was officially declared by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first UN Mandela Day held on 18 July 2010.

The day shines a light every year on the legacy of a man whose monumental achievements changed the 20th century and shaped the 21st. His values and determination — a deep commitment to human rights, freedom, and justice — are reflected on, and are a source of inspiration for others.

“We celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day every year to shine light on the legacy of a man who changed the 20th century and helped shape the 21st. This is a moment for all to renew with the values that inspired Nelson Mandela,” according to UNESCO.

Why Mandela Day is important

He showed the way for all of us. Revolutionary. Philanthropist. President. Mandela lived a breathtaking life — showing impossible courage against all odds. He spent 27 years in prison. He rose to become South Africa’s first black head of state — bringing down apartheid in the process. He won the Nobel Peace Prize. This holiday is a time to reflect upon all that one man might accomplish.

Mandela provided unlimited help for others. The Nelson Mandela Foundation, started in 1999, focused on things like rural development and school construction — while launching a prolonged and sustained attack on the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

He never stopped fighting for South Africa. On Nelson Mandela International Day, many activists shine a light on the needs of the struggling country — hoping to provide a brighter future.

How To Observe Mandela Day

When the United Nations General Assembly declared Nelson Mandela’s 18 July birthday Nelson Mandela International Day, Madiba called on the people of the world to honour him by helping their communities.

So in honor of his 67 Years of public service, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the UN ask that you spend 67 minutes of your time helping others.

This year, The Nelson Mandela Foundation will be highlighting the plight of food security and climate change with the tagline, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”

Some of the activities you can take part in to mark the day include;

Volunteer – Nelson Mandela strongly advocated for helping others. Get out in your community and lend a hand by devoting some time to volunteering. You can volunteer for as little or as long as you want.

Support any charity – There are a number of charities that contribute to the initiatives that were so close to Nelson Mandela’s heart. Consider finding a charity that partakes in a mission that you find important and contribute to the cause.

Use special hashtags – Currently, there are two major hashtags associated with Nelson Mandela International Day. Show your support for the noble causes that gain attention on this day by using the hashtags #MandelaDay and #ActionAgainstPoverty.

July 18, 2022 0 comment

Editors choice Special reports

The East African Business Times Produces A Souvenir Handbook titled: ‘TEMBEA KISUMU’

by Ndungu Brian June 20, 2022

written by Ndungu Brian

The East African Business Times in partnership with the Kisumu County Government has produced a one-of-a-kind commemorative Souvenir Handbook titled: ‘TEMBEA KISUMU.’

The Handbook coincides with the just concluded Africities Summit held in Kisumu in April 2022 an event that hosted over 30,000 delegates from all over the globe highlighting the current investment opportunities available to promote the growth of the economy making Kisumu a model County for development.

The Special Coffee Table Book documents Kisumu County’s comprehensive history, including its political and socio-economic background, culture, economy, and industry.

It also features housing and accommodation facilities, transportation, financial services, public services, medical services, education and employment in Kisumu County among other factors.

Instrumental players behind the County’s success such as Jaromogi Oginga Odinga, Tom Mboya and many others have also been featured, including the current county government leaders, leading public and private institutions, manufacturing companies, government agencies and development partners.

The Coffee Table Book also encompasses travel and tourism destination sites, broadcasting and
telecommunication facilities as well as shopping and traditional markets within the County.

Leading business ventures, as well as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kisumu, also got their fair share in sharing their details and contacts in a specially dedicated directory within this publication.

The East African Business Times is a regional publishing company that produces quality handbooks, magazines, prospectus, and policy documents for universities, government institutions, and companies across East Africa and Central Africa.

The firm has also published other Handbooks in partnership with counties like Muranga, Meru and the national government through different Ministries like the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology and also the Ministry of Mining to produce handbooks that showcase major developments that have been achieved.

For Inquires regarding how to acquire a copy, follow our social media pages on Facebook and Twitter at The East African Business Times, email us at info@eabusinesstimes.com or call 0722779914 or 0797203779

June 20, 2022 0 comment

Bluebird Directors; Hussein Unshur Mohamed, Hussein Ahmed Farah and Mohamed Abdikadir Adan

Aviation Editors choice

High Court dismisses allegations against directors of Bluebird Aviation

by Brian Yatich August 13, 2021

written by Brian Yatich

The Kenya High Court in Nairobi has dismissed charges made by Yusuf Abdi Adan against his co-directors at Bluebird Aviation Limited as being invalid, unsupported and untrue.

Mr. Yusuf made allegations against the three directors and his co-shareholders – Hussein Ahmed Farah, Hussein Unshur Mohamed and Mohamed Abdikadir Adan of fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering.

Hon Mr. Justice Alfred Mabeya, who is the Principal Judge of the Commercial & Tax Division of the High Court, dismissed the suit in its entirety with costs to the defendants, bringing an end to the suit that has dragged in the courts since March 2016.

The court noted that in the present case, all that the plaintiff did was to make sweeping allegations without any backing by way of evidence. He emphasized the guiding principle in judicial reasoning that “the allegations against a director must be substantiated and verifiable to establish grounds for protecting the company against fraudulent directors. Without such evidence, allegations remain allegations, and a court of law will not grant any orders on the grounds of unsupported allegations” or on alleged facts that were not “sufficiently particularized to reveal a plausible cause of action against the defendants.” The plaintiff simply did not have the facts to pursue the relief he sought.

The court findings follows an earlier investigation by the DCI that involved Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Kenya Airport Authority, The Financial Reporting Centre and the company’s bankers concluded that “Generally, it was untenable to investigate some of the allegations because the complainant did not provide the foundation for his allegations. His statements did not shine any light on them or provide any empirical evidence on the numerous allegations. He did not disclose the sources of his information or the basis for making such allegations, and where he made claims, we found those claims farfetched”.

The high court had previously dismissed an attempt to wind up the company and when the plaintiff appealed, the court of appeal also dismissed his petition with costs to the defendants.

Mr. Yusuf is now faced with a mountain of legal costs involving several law firms that represented the defendants including Oraro & Co. Advocates, Archer & Wilcock Advocates, Sagana Biriq & Co. Advocates, Michael Daud & Co. Advocates and Kemboy & Co. Advocates. Mr. Yusuf was represented by Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi.

In its 53 page ruling, the court noted that the plaintiff had sought that his shares be bought by the remaining members of the company in a letter to the defendants prior to filing an avalanche of lawsuits.

When he was asked to follow the laid down procedure in the Articles of the Company, he moved the court with a petition to wind up the company.

Even in the winding up petition, the plaintiff sought that he be bought out. The ruling further noted that Article 9 of the company’s Articles of Association “enables the buying out of shares of any leaving shareholder by the remaining shareholders” and that this was one of many such remedies available to the plaintiff instead of him “dragging the company through litigation which is costly and will affect the company’s operations, reputation and future business.’

“Doubt is cast in the mind of the court as to whether the company’s future is of any concern to him the plaintiff. He has vigorously evinced his desire of finding a way out of the company at the best price. From his conduct, it can be safely concluded that his heart and mind departed from the company way back and he has no room for the best interest of the company”, the judge emphatically said.

The court noted that the plaintiff, Mr. Yusuf Abdi Adan, apart from filing complaints with state agencies, has also filed “numerous lawsuits against the company and entities that it has done business with. These include – i) the present case; ii) Milimani High Court Civil Case No. 182 of 2017; iii) Milimani High Court Civil Case No. 197 of 2017; iv) Court of Appeal at Nairobi Civil Appeal No. 262 of 2016; and v) Winding Up Cause No. 7 of 2016.” The allegations regarding these entities were dismissed as being unsubstantiated and unproven. The court agreed with the defendants that the plaintiff’s actions and behavior clearly shows that he was not acting to promote the success of the company. “It is the court’s view that, the effect of filing the above cases will be to reduce the company’s creditworthiness, its goodwill among members of the public and to demotivate its employees, to say the least.”

The judge further asserted that “the suits filed, particularly the winding up cause, was intended to scare away the company’s customers thereby drastically damage its reputation and success”.

The court further noted that the three defendants- Hussein Ahmed Farah, Hussein Unshur Mohamed and Mohamed Abdikadir Adan- built the company from an initial purchase of one aircraft on credit and flying it until the company was financially stable.

“That it was their combined skill, effort, time and capital that led to the growth and success of the company. That from the very beginning, the plaintiff was never involved in the management of the company as he was only approached to buy a share as a potential permanent customer, as he was in the business of miraa exportation”, the court found that these contentions were not denied or challenged by Mr. Yusuf Abdi Adan.

In several pointed questions, the court quipped “the court must ask itself, would a faithful director exercising independent judgment file a winding up petition against a company, seeking orders to have it wound up, or in the alternative, orders directing the remaining members to buy out his shares? Would such a director then file a derivative claim, 21 days after filing a winding cause, to protect the very company he intends to legally kill? Would he, during the subsistence of the derivative claim, file other cases with the similar causes of action as in the derivative suit?

The inescapable answer to the foregoing questions is in the negative. No faithful director exercising independent judgement would take any of the said measures, none of which are beneficial to the company. In fact, all the steps taken by the plaintiff were contrary to the success of the company. They were meant to sound a death knell on the company. The upshot is that the plaintiff cannot be said to have brought the application in good faith.”

It further noted that the “Court is alive to the allegations by the defendants that the plaintiff only contributed Kshs. 150,000/= as his capital at the inception of the company.

That he never made any further contribution thereafter. He never actively participated in the affairs of the company for 23 years. If he had been excluded, he never took action on it. The court concludes that he did so willingly.”

The Principal Judge noted that the “2nd defendant reminded the court of the story of King Solomon’s wisdom in the Bible. That the plaintiff has already attempted to murder the baby through the winding-up petition. Having failed in that attempt, he has asked two courts to split the baby by his pursuit for a buyout. In this case, King Solomon declines the invitation” and with those words Mr. Yusuf was left to count that which would have been.

August 13, 2021 0 comment

Editors choice

Bobi Wine singing Uganda’s songs of redemption

by Oloo Winnie January 13, 2021

written by Oloo Winnie

President Yoweri Museveni has been Uganda president for 35 years, he will be seeking another term in the top helm authority. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni shares a long history with power. He rescued Uganda from the horrors and embarrassments of Apollo Milton Obote and Idi Amin and some young popstar cum politician is determined to tumble his throne.

Just who is this dare-devil that dares to stand up against a regime so synonymous with Africa leadership.

Bobi Wine, real name Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu,38, is a member of Parliament and singer and most importantly a key opponent for Yoweri Museveni his People Power Movement.

Museveni, 76, has twice amended the constitution to stay in power. In 2005 he scrapped the two-term presidential limit and in 2018 he removed the 75-year age limit for presidential candidates. That has enabled him to run for a sixth term in the 14 January 2021 elections which would probably extend his hold on power until 2026.

January 13, 2021 0 comment

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