Explore Dr. Catherine Nyongesa’s inspiring journey as Kenya’s first female radiation oncologist, sharing her insights on entrepreneurship and cancer care.

By Charles Wachira

Early Years and Education

Dr. Catherine Naliaka Nyongesa Watta stands as a trailblazer in Kenya’s medical field, renowned as the country’s first female physician specializing in radiation oncology. 

Born in 1970, Catherine’s journey toward becoming a medical pioneer began with a deep-seated passion for healing and a resolute determination to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients.

 After completing her secondary education at Misikhu Girls Secondary School,Bungoma County in the mid-1980s, Catherine pursued her dream of medical training.

 She enrolled at the University of Nairobi’s prestigious School of Medicine, where she excelled academically, graduating at the top of her class in 1995.

Career Beginnings and Vision for Change

Following her graduation, Catherine embarked on a dedicated career path in oncology. 

She completed her specialization in radiation oncology through rigorous training both locally and internationally, earning accolades for her exceptional clinical skills and dedication to patient care.

 Her experiences working in various healthcare settings across Kenya exposed her to the harsh realities faced by cancer patients, including limited access to advanced treatment options.

Driven by a vision to enhance cancer care in Kenya, Catherine founded the Texas Cancer Centre in Nairobi in 2003. 

The centre quickly gained recognition for its state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive approach to cancer treatment, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s healthcare landscape.

Entrepreneurial Challenges and Successes

Establishing the Texas Cancer Centre was not without its challenges.

 Catherine faced initial skepticism from traditional healthcare institutions and financial organizations wary of investing in specialized medical facilities. Undeterred, she leveraged her extensive network within the medical community and secured initial funding through a combination of personal savings, strategic partnerships with local investors, and loans from development banks committed to advancing healthcare infrastructure in Africa.

Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Catherine emphasizes the importance of resilience and strategic planning in overcoming obstacles.

 “As a woman entrepreneur in the healthcare sector, I faced numerous challenges, from securing funding to breaking through gender barriers. Each challenge reinforced my commitment to providing world-class cancer care in Kenya.”

Insights on Successful Business Practices

Dr. Nyongesa’s experience in building a successful healthcare institution has equipped her with valuable insights that she eagerly shares with aspiring entrepreneurs.

1. On Resilience and Adaptability:
   • “In entrepreneurship, challenges are inevitable. The key is to be resilient and adaptable. When faced with obstacles, I remind myself that every setback is an opportunity to learn and innovate.”
2. On Building a Strong Team:
   • “You cannot do it alone. Surround yourself with a team that shares your vision and values. A strong team is crucial for navigating the complexities of running a business, especially in healthcare where collaboration is vital.”
3. On Financial Management:
   • “Understanding your finances is non-negotiable. As a business owner, I ensure that I have a clear grasp of cash flow, budgeting, and financial forecasting. This knowledge empowers me to make informed decisions and avoid pitfalls.”
4. On Patient-Centered Care:
   • “At the core of my business philosophy is a commitment to patient-centered care. A successful healthcare business is built on understanding and addressing the needs of patients. Their satisfaction drives referrals and growth.”
5. On Innovation and Technology:
   • “Embrace technology and innovation. In today’s fast-paced world, being at the forefront of medical advancements not only enhances patient care but also sets your business apart from competitors.”
6. On Networking and Partnerships:
   • “Building relationships within the industry is essential. Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, organizations, and even competitors to enhance your service offerings and expand your reach.”

Advice on What to Avoid as an Entrepreneur

Catherine also emphasizes critical pitfalls to avoid as an entrepreneur:

1. On Ignoring Market Research:
   • “Never underestimate the importance of market research. Avoid making decisions based solely on assumptions. Understanding your market and customer needs is vital to your business’s success.”
2. On Neglecting Work-Life Balance:
   • “As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to become consumed by your business. However, neglecting work-life balance can lead to burnout. Prioritize self-care and make time for your personal life.”
3. On Avoiding Risk:
   • “Taking calculated risks is part of entrepreneurship. Avoid the fear of failure; instead, embrace it as part of the journey. Assess the risks and rewards, but don’t shy away from making bold moves when necessary.”
4. On Lack of Communication:
   • “Communication is key. Avoid assumptions and ensure open lines of communication with your team and patients. Transparency builds trust and fosters a positive organizational culture.”
5. On Poor Financial Planning:
   • “Many businesses fail due to poor financial management. Avoid spending without a clear strategy. Plan for the long term and ensure you have a financial buffer for unexpected expenses.”

Impact and Recognition

Under Catherine’s leadership, the Texas Cancer Centre has flourished into a leading institution, offering cutting-edge treatment options previously unavailable in the region. The centre’s success has not only transformed cancer care in Kenya but has also inspired a new generation of medical professionals and entrepreneurs to pursue excellence in healthcare innovation.

Catherine’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) in 2017 as one of the country’s high-net-worth individuals, a testament to her entrepreneurial acumen and dedication to healthcare excellence.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Catherine remains committed to expanding the Texas Cancer Centre’s impact, advocating for greater investment in cancer research and community outreach programs. She envisions a future where every Kenyan has access to affordable and effective cancer treatment, driven by a passion for equitable healthcare and patient-centered innovation.

As she continues to lead the charge in oncology, Catherine’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, seeking to make a meaningful impact in traditionally male-dominated industries.

In her own words, Catherine reflects on her journey: “Success as a woman entrepreneur in healthcare requires perseverance, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to improving patient outcomes. My journey has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding, fueled by a passion for healing and a vision for a healthier Kenya.”

Through her pioneering spirit and relentless dedication, Dr. Catherine Nyongesa stands as a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship in advancing healthcare and empowering women in Kenya and beyond.

Keywords:Dr. Catherine Nyongesa:Female entrepreneur:Cancer care in Kenya:Radiation oncologist:Texas Cancer Centre

: Building Dentsu Kenya: A Journey of Resilience, Innovation, and Debt-Free Scaling

 By Charles Wachira

In the dynamic world of advertising, Samantha Siyieyio Kipury has become a trailblazer. As the founder and managing director of Dentsu Kenya, she has redefined the Kenyan advertising landscape by blending global expertise with local insights. Yet, her rise to success was no overnight feat—it was a journey marked by perseverance, resilience, and strategic thinking.

A Vision Born from Experience

Samantha’s entrepreneurial journey took shape after several years of working in marketing roles across some of Kenya’s top firms, including Scanad and Ogilvy East Africa. These experiences gave her a deep understanding of both local and global advertising dynamics. It was during this time that she noticed a gap in the market—while many agencies excelled at global standards, they often lacked an authentic connection to African audiences.

“Advertising is more than selling; it’s about telling stories that resonate. I wanted to build something that could truly speak to the African experience while maintaining the rigor and innovation of global agencies,” she said.

Armed with this vision, she founded Dentsu Kenya in 2015.

The Birth of Dentsu Kenya

Dentsu Kenya wasn’t built with large capital or extensive resources. Samantha started with Ksh 500,000 (around $5,000), primarily saved from her previous roles, and operated from her apartment in Westlands, Nairobi. She faced significant challenges from the start, including stiff competition from established advertising giants and the economic volatility that affected many of her target clients.

“I remember knocking on the doors of big brands, and they would look at me and ask, ‘Who are you again?’ But I knew that we had something unique to offer,” Samantha recalls.

What set Dentsu apart from the beginning was its digital-first approach. While many agencies in Kenya were still focused on traditional media, Dentsu Kenya was ahead of the curve, leveraging digital strategies to drive more effective and data-backed campaigns. This foresight allowed the company to carve out a niche, even in a crowded market.

Samantha Siyieyio Kipury’s approach to fundraising for Dentsu Kenya was quite strategic and unconventional compared to the typical path of securing large loans or outside investments. She focused on bootstrapping and growing the business organically.

1. Personal Savings

At the outset, Samantha didn’t rely on external investors or bank loans to kick-start Dentsu Kenya. Instead, she tapped into Ksh 500,000 (around $5,000), which she had saved from her previous roles at Scanad and Ogilvy East Africa. This modest amount was used for initial operational expenses, including setting up her office from her apartment and hiring a small team.

“I wanted to start small and grow incrementally. I knew I wasn’t going to have millions at the start, so I made every coin count,” she explains.

2. Reinvesting Profits

Once the agency began securing clients, Samantha prioritized reinvesting profits back into the business. Rather than drawing large salaries or making significant personal withdrawals, she focused on using the revenue generated to fund growth initiatives. This reinvestment strategy allowed her to avoid taking on early debt or diluting ownership through equity deals.

“The profits we made from our early campaigns went directly into scaling the business—whether it was hiring more talent or investing in better technology,” Samantha says.

3. Client-Funded Growth

In the early stages, she also used a client-funded growth model. By winning key contracts and delivering results quickly, the cash flow from these projects helped sustain the company’s expansion. This was particularly important as it allowed her to maintain independence and not be reliant on outside investors who might push the company in directions contrary to her vision.

“Our strategy was to deliver outstanding results for every client, no matter how small the project. That way, we’d ensure repeat business and referrals, which kept us going in the early days,” she adds.

4. Selective Expansion to Avoid Debt

Samantha was cautious about expanding too fast. Instead of borrowing to grow quickly, she took a selective approach to scaling, only expanding when it made financial sense. This kept the agency agile and protected it from the risks that often come with large-scale borrowing.

“Debt can be a double-edged sword. I didn’t want to be in a position where the business was beholden to bank repayments instead of focusing on quality and growth,” she says.

5. Strategic Partnerships

As Dentsu Kenya began to grow, Samantha formed strategic partnerships that allowed the agency to access resources, expertise, and networks without needing massive capital outlays. By working with larger international brands and technology providers, she could leverage their tools and platforms to expand her offerings.

Overcoming Challenges

The early days were difficult. One of the most pressing challenges was securing clients. In a market dominated by major agencies, winning contracts from large companies required more than just innovative ideas. Samantha had to be persistent and creative, even offering free digital audits to smaller businesses in exchange for their trust.

“We couldn’t afford big marketing campaigns, so I went door-to-door, pitching relentlessly. The breakthrough came when I stopped waiting for clients to come to us and started showing them what we could do,” Samantha explained.

Financing the business was another challenge. While Samantha was able to start with personal savings, scaling the agency required additional capital. Instead of taking on massive debt, she opted for a gradual approach, reinvesting profits to fuel growth.

“Financial discipline is critical. In the early stages, I learned to stretch every shilling, cut unnecessary expenses, and focus on long-term sustainability,” she advises entrepreneurs.

Breakthrough and Expansion

The breakthrough moment for Dentsu Kenya came when they secured their first major client—a global beverage company looking to establish a stronger presence in East Africa. The success of this campaign not only put Dentsu on the map but also opened doors to more high-profile clients.

As the agency grew, Samantha knew the key to scaling was in building a strong team. She invested in nurturing young talent, fostering a culture of learning, and embracing technology.

“You’re only as strong as the team around you. I made it a point to hire people who were not just skilled but also shared my vision for where we could take the company,” she says.

Dentsu Kenya expanded its services by adopting automation tools and data analytics to streamline operations. “As we grew, we embraced technology early on. Automation helped us handle more clients without compromising quality,” Samantha notes.

Her ability to innovate and invest in her team paid off. Today, Dentsu Kenya is a market leader, working with both local and international clients. The agency has expanded its portfolio to include cutting-edge solutions like AI in advertising and sustainable marketing strategies.

Scaling for the Future

Samantha has invaluable advice for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses:

1. Build a Strong Foundation: “Before you scale, make sure your processes and team are solid. Scaling will only expose weaknesses if they’re not addressed early.”
2. Invest in People: “Scaling isn’t about just growing revenue. It’s about having the right team to support that growth.”
3. Automate and Innovate: “Leverage technology where possible. Automation will save you time and keep your quality consistent as you grow.”
4. Stay True to Quality: “No matter how fast you grow, don’t compromise on the quality of your work. That’s what keeps clients coming back.”
5. Expand Thoughtfully: “Don’t rush into new markets without proper research. Scaling should be intentional and well-thought-out.”

Financing Her Dream

Interestingly, Samantha’s journey was one where she avoided taking on large debt in the early stages. Instead of seeking a big loan from a bank, she focused on reinvesting profits back into the business. “I wanted to grow organically,” she explained. “Scaling isn’t just about throwing money at problems; it’s about being strategic in your investments.”

For other entrepreneurs, she emphasizes the importance of being financially disciplined. “In the early stages, cash flow is everything. You need to know where every coin is going and have a plan for both short-term survival and long-term growth.”

Samantha’s Legacy and Future

Today, Dentsu Kenya is a shining example of what can happen when vision meets execution. Samantha continues to push the boundaries, leading the agency into the future with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

“The world of advertising is evolving rapidly, and we have to evolve with it. Whether it’s AI, data, or sustainability, the future is exciting, and we plan to be at the forefront of that change,” she says.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Samantha’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that with perseverance, innovation, and a clear vision, success is achievable—even in the most competitive of industries.

Keywords:Entrepreneurship in Kenya:Digital advertising growth:Bootstrapping a business:Client-funded business model:Scaling without debt

:Revolutionizing Kenya’s Insurance Industry through Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurial Resilience

By Charles Wachira

Jihan Abbas, aged 31, identified an opportunity to simplify the insurance experience in a sector often criticised for its complexity and bureaucracy. With mobile penetration in Kenya at over 95%, she saw the potential for a digital-first insurance solution to reach more customers, particularly the tech-savvy younger generation.

“I realized the insurance industry was ripe for disruption,” says Jihan. “Customers were frustrated by long processes and lack of transparency. With Griffin Insurance, we’ve built a platform where users can buy, renew, and manage their insurance policies all on a mobile app, within minutes. This is the future of insurance—not just in Kenya, but across Africa.”

By leveraging technology and automation, Griffin Insurance eliminates much of the paperwork traditionally involved in buying insurance, providing customers with a fast and seamless experience. The company focuses heavily on motor insurance, allowing users to pay premiums, track claims, and even pause coverage when their vehicles are not in use—a feature unique to Griffin.

What It Takes to Succeed in Business: Jihan’s Perspective

Building a successful business in a sector as highly regulated and competitive as insurance requires a blend of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering focus on customer needs. According to Jihan, her journey has been challenging but also deeply rewarding.

“Success in business, especially in a market like Kenya, demands persistence. There are days when things don’t go as planned—especially when you’re trying to innovate in a conservative industry—but you have to keep pushing,” she explains. “It’s also important to be customer-centric. We built Griffin Insurance around what customers actually want, not what the industry thinks they need.”

Jihan emphasizes the importance of having the right team. “You need a team that is as committed to your vision as you are. Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you and can bring ideas to the table. Collaboration is key.”

Finally, Jihan points to risk-taking as a core element of her entrepreneurial journey. “In business, you have to be willing to take calculated risks. When I started Griffin, we were entering uncharted territory with a fully digital model. But I believed in the idea and trusted that technology was the answer to many of the pain points in this industry.”

The Insurance Landscape in Kenya: Challenges and Opportunities

Kenya’s insurance industry has seen steady growth, driven by a growing middle class, an expanding economy, and increased awareness of the need for protection. However, insurance penetration—the ratio of insurance premiums to GDP—remains low. As of 2022, Kenya’s insurance penetration stood at around 2.4%, which is below the African average of about 3% and far below leading countries like South Africa, where penetration is above 17%.

Despite this, Kenya’s insurance market holds immense potential. The country ranks as one of the top insurance markets in East Africa, supported by a relatively well-developed financial services sector and robust mobile infrastructure.

“The low penetration rate represents both a challenge and an opportunity,” notes Jihan. “On the one hand, it shows there’s a long way to go in terms of educating people about the benefits of insurance. On the other hand, it means there’s a huge untapped market. At Griffin, we’re leveraging digital platforms to reach people who may never have considered insurance before.”

Comparison with Other African Markets

Kenya lags behind countries like Morocco, where insurance penetration is at 4.5%, and Namibia, with 6.7%, but is on par with other East African countries such as Uganda and Tanzania, where insurance penetration hovers around 1-2%. The low insurance uptake across the continent is largely attributed to economic challenges, low disposable incomes, and a lack of trust in insurance providers.

“One of the reasons why insurance penetration is lower in Kenya compared to countries like South Africa or Namibia is the lack of trust in traditional insurance models,” says Jihan. “People often feel they don’t get value for their money, and claims processes can be opaque. At Griffin, we’ve worked hard to build trust by ensuring transparency and creating a hassle-free claims process.”

The Way Forward: Digitization and Innovation

The future of Kenya’s insurance industry lies in digitization and accessibility. With over 47 million mobile phone users in the country, mobile-based insurance services, like those provided by Griffin, are becoming a more viable way to increase coverage. Microinsurance—affordable, smaller-scale insurance products targeted at low-income earners—is also expected to drive growth in the sector, particularly as mobile money services like M-Pesa expand their integration with insurance products.

“Kenya is at the forefront of mobile innovation, and insurance companies need to tap into that potential,” Jihan says. “At Griffin, we are constantly exploring new ways to reach customers via mobile and provide them with products that fit their needs and lifestyles. I see the future of insurance as being on-demand, flexible, and fully integrated into our everyday lives.”

Insurance Regulatory Changes: A Positive Outlook

Jihan is optimistic about the regulatory changes taking place in the industry. The Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) has been pushing for reforms to streamline operations, make insurance more accessible, and ensure fair treatment of policyholders.

“Regulation is crucial for maintaining trust in the industry,” Jihan states. “At Griffin, we’ve embraced these changes because they align with our vision of providing a fair, transparent, and efficient insurance service. We are excited about what the future holds for the industry.”

Conclusion: A Bright Future for InsurTech in Kenya

As Griffin Insurance continues to grow, Jihan Abbas remains a pioneer in Kenya’s InsurTech space, paving the way for a new era of customer-centric, tech-driven insurance services. With a market ripe for innovation and a population increasingly familiar with digital solutions, the future of Kenya’s insurance industry is undoubtedly bright. As more Kenyans adopt digital insurance platforms, industry leaders like Griffin will be at the forefront of driving insurance penetration and financial inclusion in the country.

In her final thoughts, Jihan offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Start small, dream big, and most importantly, stay focused. There will be setbacks, but every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Believe in your vision and don’t be afraid to disrupt the status quo.”

Keywords:InsurTech:Insurance penetration:Digital insurance:Griffin Insurance Kenya:Entrepreneurship in Kenya