Why starting a business in Kenya is seen more as a crime than a good cause

“It is easier to save capital to start a business in Kenya than actually starting the business!”  A Bachelor of Commerce student in one of the public Universities in Kenya raised this statement a few days ago during a chama meeting. I sadly agree with him. Starting a business in Kenya is seen more as a crime than a good cause. The cost of licenses you are supposed to apply for may compete with the cost of the business. The numerous offices you are supposed to visit and the arrogant civil servants you meet may be traumatizing. It requires a brave dedicated individual to face the government bureaucracies to fully start a business.

You have started the business. Yes! You applied for all licenses that are required. Yes! You went for all medical tests that are required. Yes! Now you are ready for the second phase of trauma. Harassment from authorities! I am sure you have seen a video clip doing round of a lady salonist being harassed by Nairobi county askari. I am yet to know her crime. The county official was trying to forcefully take away her business license from where it was hanged on the wall. That is the kind of environment we are in! Haven’t you seen police officers collecting bribes from legal businesses in your estate especially liquor business?