A Strategic Blueprint for Strengthening Governance in Family Businesses in Africa
Family-owned enterprises are not only the backbone of Africa’s economy, contributing significantly to both GDP and employment, but they also uphold and transmit cultural and social values. In Kenya alone, family businesses account for 60% of GDP and more than 80% of private sector employment. Despite their economic importance, these businesses often face governance challenges […]
Decision-Making in the Visionary Boardroom
In my experience in dealing with boards, very few decisions are actually made. All too often the focus is on the minutes, matters arising and the operational reports such as the MD report, and financials. So, before a board starts worrying about whether they are “visionary”, the first step is to get into the rhythm […]
Boardroom Platforms: Old-School Security Packed into New Technology
Through a great partnership, our business engages with several interns and tech savvy young people at the start of their careers. Engaging with them on a wide range of topics is often a source of inspiration and self-reflection. I was explaining how, when I started my career, I was the company secretary for a listed […]
Avoiding Group Think as a Board
Group think causes boards to miss opportunities and make avoidable mistakes. This is so because the fewer differing perspectives that are applied to a challenge, the fewer options will be seen, heard, felt or deducted from the data. As a minimum requirement on a board, let’s move away from having “broad shareholder” – or even […]
Leading Practice in Running Your Board
A chairperson must remember that their ultimate role is to facilitate robust discussion at a board meeting. The best image to have in mind is that of the conductor of an orchestra. There is no question that the conductor is a master musician and perhaps even an accomplished composer. He or she cannot however play […]
Ten Key Opportunities Awaiting Businesses in East Africa
East Africa, with its diverse cultures, rapidly growing population, and increasingly stable political landscapes, offers a myriad of opportunities for businesses looking to expand or start new ventures. The region is composed of countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan, each with its own unique prospects. Below are ten key opportunities awaiting […]
An Unconventional View of Mentorship
Storytelling as a way of passing down learnings from one generation to the next is an ancient form of mentorship. While this still takes place in certain environments, formal mentorship programmes are often sought out to build the talent pipeline when individuals are earmarked for big things in corporate life. Whether you rely on a […]
Foundations of Professionalising Your Business
As an entrepreneur who has decided to leave a lasting legacy by professionalising your business so that it can outlive you, you may be wondering where to start. Let’s consider just five fundamentals of doing so. Extend Your Networks By belonging to professional bodies such as Entrepreneurs’ Organization, YPO, and others, you are already halfway […]
Confidentiality in The Boardroom
It is often stated that the efficiency and effectiveness of directors at board meetings are largely dependent on the quality of information received at such meetings. It is also important to note that across different jurisdictions, one of the rights of a director of a company is the right to information about that company, a […]
Unlocking Success: The Power of Board Evaluations
In the dynamic world of business, organisations are constantly faced with the challenge of adapting to changing landscapes while steering towards success. At the heart of every successful enterprise lies a dedicated board of directors. These individuals carry the responsibility of governance, strategy, and ensuring the organisation’s longevity. How do these boards ensure they are […]
