Business Consultants Timothy Angwenyi & Justine Nyachieo Share Key Secrets to Building a Successful Business in Africa

   Renowned business consultant Timothy Angwenyi and seasoned business mentor Justine Nyachieo have unveiled three crucial secrets for aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to start and grow successful businesses in Kenya and across Africa. Their insights come at a time when many are seeking financial independence through entrepreneurship but are often hindered by challenges such as a lack of education and the pervasive culture of seeking stable employment.
The experts’ shared vision highlights the hidden barriers to entrepreneurial success in Africa, and offers practical advice for overcoming these obstacles.
According to Timothy Angwenyi, the first reason most people struggle to build businesses in Africa is a cultural one. “In many African societies, there’s a heavy emphasis on pursuing conventional jobs, often at large companies, instead of nurturing the desire to create businesses. This mindset stifles entrepreneurial spirit from an early age,” he explains.
Angwenyi recalls his own journey, where his decision to fully venture into business after university was met with skepticism by his family. “Many believe it’s safer to work for established organizations rather than take the risk of building a business. The societal pressure to fit this mold can prevent many from realizing their entrepreneurial potential,” he adds.
The second challenge, as noted by Justine Nyachieo, is a focus on problems rather than solutions. “In Africa, we often focus on the issues facing our countries and communities. While it’s important to recognize challenges, the key to entrepreneurship lies in identifying opportunities within those challenges. Entrepreneurs do not complain; they see problems as opportunities to innovate and create solutions,” Nyachieo emphasizes.
He explains that many successful entrepreneurs have made fortunes by solving the very problems that others tend to complain about. “For example, if you can find solutions to everyday problems, you have a business idea. The more people face a particular issue, the greater the opportunity to create a solution that can generate revenue.”
However, Angwenyi and Nyachieo both agree that a significant barrier to entrepreneurship lies in the lack of proper business education. “Most Africans are not equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in business. We were raised in systems that emphasized formal education but neglected entrepreneurial education,” says Angwenyi.
He continues by saying that many people aspiring to start businesses in Africa tend to focus on obtaining capital or products, but lack the crucial knowledge about business processes, management, and growth strategies. “You cannot succeed as a business owner without understanding the fundamentals of business. You need to invest in learning—read business books, attend seminars, and seek out mentorship.”
Nyachieo echoes this point, adding that becoming a successful entrepreneur requires constant learning. “Nobody is born a business genius. I started with little knowledge but over the years, I acquired experience, learned from mistakes, and sought knowledge wherever I could. Today, I know more than I ever thought possible about business,” he says.
They both emphasize that learning must be a personal pursuit. “No one can force you to acquire business knowledge. You need to develop a passion for learning and associate pleasure with it. Whether it’s reading business magazines, books, or engaging in practical experiences, the more you learn, the more your confidence and ability to make decisions will grow,” Angwenyi advises.
Their partnership in launching a WhatsApp group, Profitable Business Ideas, is part of their ongoing effort to bridge the knowledge gap in African entrepreneurship. The group serves as a platform where individuals can access valuable insights, exchange ideas, and get guidance on building profitable businesses.
Angwenyi and Nyachieo conclude with a powerful message to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Do not be discouraged by your lack of knowledge today. Every successful entrepreneur started from zero, including some of Africa’s richest individuals. With determination, continuous learning, and a focus on finding solutions, you can create the business of your dreams.”
Their guidance offers hope and practical steps for aspiring entrepreneurs who are ready to overcome cultural, educational, and personal barriers to build successful businesses in Africa.  Read More