05 Aug
East Africa economic news, East Africa news

“Failing Start ups” The Outlook #17: By Mr. Hilary Akhaabi, PhD.

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The high failure rate of startups, particularly in emerging markets like Kenya, underscores the need for robust due diligence. The lack of reliable credit structures and data in these economies poses a significant challenge. Businesses often rely on informal networks and credit arrangements, making them vulnerable to unforeseen risks. The recent failures of prominent Kenyan startups highlight the importance of stress-testing business models and ensuring adequate capital reserves to withstand economic shocks.
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27 Jul
East Africa economic news, East Africa news

“Imperialism is here to stay” The Outlook #16: By Mr. Hilary Akhaabi, PhD.

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Imperialism, driven by economic motives, is a historical trend. Today's dominant imperial power, the United States, influences emerging nations like Kenya through financial institutions and policy alignment. Kenya, as a subject, must strategically choose its relationship with the imperial power, focusing on mutual benefit. The article highlights Kenya's alignment with U.S. ideologies and the influence of the U.S. in local production. It critiques Kenya's "Big 4" economic agenda as state-driven and inefficient, using food security as an example. The author concludes that initiatives driven by imperial powers should be carefully evaluated for mutual benefit, as imperialism is not going away.
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27 Jul
East Africa economic news, East Africa news

“Accountability” The Outlook Issue #15: : By Mr. Hilary Akhaabi, PhD.

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Accountability in business, as explored by Hilary Akhaabi, is a complex issue mirroring dynamics at the national level. Key questions to consider include whether roles are defined, procedures outlined, and individuals capable of fulfilling their responsibilities. The ultimate test is whether individuals act responsibly even when unsupervised. A case study highlights the relativity of accountability, with employees often only performing up to a level of utility they deem satisfactory. This leads to a trade-off between productivity and compensation, requiring employers to consider pay-for-performance models. Kenya's recent cabinet dissolution over accountability concerns underscores the importance of this issue. However, Akhaabi questions whether citizens themselves are accountable, citing examples of disregarding rules and potentially evading taxes.
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