PROJECTS
Due to confidentiality agreements, much of our ongoing work cannot be disclosed until completion. However, here are some projects we can share in more detail:
1) Support for Access to Finance - Avocado Seedlings
We provided strategic advice to an organic avocado seedling business, helping them to access finance, enabling them to upscale operations and meet growing demand for Hass Gold avocados.
2) Feasibility Study - Sweet Potato Value Chain
We conducted a feasibility study for a sweet potato value chain, exploring small-scale farming and agro-processing in Kenya and Uganda for export to the UK. Despite high levels of production in the region, low yields hindered profitability, leading to a reassessment of the value chain model.
3) Supply Chain Development - Sustainable Timber
Through our research and outreach, we helped a US buyer establish a supply chain for rare, sustainable timber from Gabon, overcoming five years of their failed attempts of trying. Our network facilitated supplier identification, site visits, negotiations, financing from a Kenyan financier, and logistics, including securing licensing and customs clearance.
4) Strategic Business Support - Tech Start-up
We supported a Ugandan tech start-up aiming to expand across Africa, advising on business model improvements, user experience, and strategic partnerships to drive market entry, including linking the business with investors and partners in Kenya.
5) Analysis & Recommendations - Retail (Homewares)
We analysed 15 potential retail locations for a Tanzanian company expanding into Nairobi, considering factors such as footfall, demographics, visibility, parking, and costs. Our report provided tailored recommendations for optimal site selection.
6) Media Appearance - Foreign Direct Investment into Kenya Our Managing Director was interviewed on Kenya Broadcasting Company’s KBC1 on the reasons as to why Kenya would be an attractive investment destination for British investors.
7) Market Research, Outreach, Price Comparison and Import Calculations - Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)
Researched the Kenyan Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector in Kenya to ascertain UK FMCG products that may be successful in Kenya based on pricing, trends, and competition, reaching out to the UK based manufacturers to ascertain bulk pricing, shipping details and any existing channels as well as factoring elements such as import duties and shelf life.
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
10) Feasibility Study - Bamboo Production and Processing
Assessed the viability of bamboo cultivation and processing in Musanze for applications such as construction materials, matches, toothpicks, and charcoal. Analysed yields, harvest cycles, land availability, and production methods. Concluded that commercial viability was unlikely due to insufficient land availability for plantation and supply from smallholders.
11) Feasibility Study - Timber Value Addition
Conducted a feasibility study in Gisenyi (Rwanda) and Fort Portal (Uganda) for a second-stage timber value addition business focused on processing Congolese hardwoods. The venture aimed to become a leading non-concession cutter, finisher, and supplier of dimensional lumber and slabs for East African and international specialty markets. While profitable and logistically viable via a conflict-aware Ugandan route, escalating security risks in eastern DRC posed potential supply chain disruptions.
12) Tax and Business Registration Research - Kigali International Finance Centre (KIFC)
We researched and produced a detailed mini-report on the new Kigali International Finance Centre (KIFC). The report focused on its incentives as an onshore financial centre, including registration requirements, costs, timeframes, and ongoing expenses for businesses interested in establishing regional headquarters, holding companies, and funds.
13) Organisational Improvement and Donor Relations Project - NGO
We provided pro bono consulting to a local NGO that produces prosthetic limbs for victims of the Rwandan genocide, as well as casualties from conflict and landmines in the DRC and Burundi. Our work focused on improving organisational efficiency, establishing linkages for skilled volunteers, and securing increased donor funding.
14) Opinion Pieces on National and Regional Economic Development - Digital and Print Media
We collaborated with Rwanda’s leading media platform to write opinion pieces on accelerating equitable economic and social development in Rwanda and the broader East African region. These articles aimed to raise awareness and advocate for key regional policy changes.
15) Pre-feasibility study - Cassava based ethanol production
Conducted a pre-feasibility study on ethanol production from cassava in Nyanza. While technically viable, the margins were too narrow to justify commercial investment when factoring in financing costs and potential risks.
5) Analysis & Recommendations - Retail (Homewares)
We analysed 15 potential retail locations for a Tanzanian company expanding into Nairobi, considering factors such as footfall, demographics, visibility, parking, and costs. Our report provided tailored recommendations for optimal site selection.
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
16) Safari Camp Development in Serengeti National Park
We supported a German-Tanzanian tour operator with their first tourism property by delivering a market study, business plan, and financial projections. Our work included concept development, branding, pricing strategy, statutory compliance, VAT planning, and a debt structuring strategy. The result: the client secured a prime plot in Serengeti National Park and successfully raised debt financing.
17) Development of Business Plan, Financial Projections, and Sourcing Finance - Arts and Crafts Export
We developed a comprehensive business plan, including financial projections, for a start-up focused on exporting East African arts and crafts to the US. The items for export range from handmade natural products like baskets, rugs, pottery, and fabrics to decorative objects such as light fixtures, cutting boards, and embroidery. Our work involved identifying potential suppliers from Tanzania and neighbouring countries in the East African Community (EAC) to establish a sustainable supply chain. We also assisted with sourcing the necessary finance to fund this venture, which is expected to create wealth and improve livelihoods in vulnerable communities.
18) Brand and Business Plan Development - Boutique Hotel
We helped develop the brand and worked alongside architects to design a boutique hotel on one of Tanzania’s largest coffee estates. Our contribution included market research, financial planning, and operational forecasting. We collaborated on the development of build and procurement schedules, seasonal room rate plans, and financial projections for occupancy and cash flow. The business plan we crafted was successfully approved by financiers, who provided the necessary funding for the project.
19) Land Usage Consulting - Community Project
Through pro bono work, we assisted a Maasai community in rural Tanzania with identifying potential commercial ventures on their land to generate revenue for reinvestment into community projects. Additionally, we guided them on creating PR strategies to attract donor funding to support their revenue-generating activities. This effort has successfully led to the community developing profitable revenue streams and establishing connections with skilled overseas volunteers to support their development initiatives.
20) Organisational Set-up and Strategy - Non-Government Organisation (NGO)
Through pro bono work, we provided strategic assistance to a group of Tanzanian youth politicians and ambassadors working to establish an NGO focused on reforestation programs across East Africa. The NGO’s objective is to plant 16 million trees in government schools throughout the East African Community (EAC). Our support involved strategy development, coaching on document writing and communications, and providing advice on how to access donor funding, partnerships, and materials for the programme’s implementation.
21) Proprietary Project Development - Real Estate
We conducted research and development for several partially proprietary projects to support the Tanzanian government’s relocation of its administrative capital to Dodoma. These projects encompass residential, hospitality, education, and healthcare sectors. Our involvement included identifying suitable land, developing building concepts, finding operators and financial partners, and liaising with the Prime Minister’s office, which oversees the relocation process.
22) Market Entry Study - Technical Services
We conducted a market entry study for a multinational technical services company headquartered in Belgium with annual revenues of USD $800 million. Our study included competitive analysis, market opportunities, human resources, business development strategies, and compliance procedures for entering Tanzania. The company successfully entered the market based on the detailed information provided, which they reported as the most decisive factor in their rapid entry decision.
23) Supply Chain Development - Cashew Nuts
Through our research, we opened up a supply chain for cashew nuts from Tanzania to Uganda by negotiating contracts and determining a transportation solution. This initiative was part of our broader effort to enhance regional trade integration and improve market accessibility between neighbouring countries in East Africa.
2) Feasibility Study - Sweet Potato Value Chain
We conducted a feasibility study for a sweet potato value chain, exploring small-scale farming and agro-processing in Kenya and Uganda for export to the UK. Despite high levels of production in the region, low yields hindered profitability, leading to a reassessment of the value chain model.
4) Strategic Business Support - Tech Start-up
We supported a Ugandan tech start-up aiming to expand across Africa, advising on business model improvements, user experience, and strategic partnerships to drive market entry, including linking the business with investors and partners in Kenya.
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
11) Feasibility Study - Timber Value Addition
Conducted a feasibility study in Gisenyi (Rwanda) and Fort Portal (Uganda) for a second-stage timber value addition business focused on processing Congolese hardwoods. The venture aimed to become a leading non-concession cutter, finisher, and supplier of dimensional lumber and slabs for East African and international specialty markets. While profitable and logistically viable via a conflict-aware Ugandan route, escalating security risks in eastern DRC posed potential supply chain disruptions.
23) Supply Chain Development - Cashew Nuts
Through our research, we opened up a supply chain for cashew nuts from Tanzania to Uganda by negotiating contracts and determining a transportation solution. This initiative was part of our broader effort to enhance regional trade integration and improve market accessibility between neighbouring countries in East Africa.
24) Feasibility Study, Business Plan Development, and Government Relations - Integrated Grain Business and Storage
We conducted a comprehensive feasibility study for a grain storage business in Uganda, leveraging the country’s maize production capacity and its strategic location between countries that import maize or face food security challenges. Our analysis focused on local and regional maize production and consumption patterns, reviewing case studies of similar past failures to identify critical success factors. We examined the equipment needed, financial viability, and proposed project timelines. Additionally, we made recommendations for changes to the business model and project location, and facilitated connections with local partners and government stakeholders to strengthen the project’s potential for success.
25) Business Plan Development - Highway Retail Complex Developments
We developed a business plan for a proposed highway retail complex along the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway, in collaboration with architects and the President’s Office of Uganda. This development is designed to serve commuters, business travelers, and tourists traveling between Entebbe Airport and Kampala. The plan included a mix of facilities such as ATMs, a forex exchange office, a coffee shop/bakery, and a gift shop selling Ugandan export items. The retail complex aims to provide essential services like banking and currency exchange, high-quality food and beverages, and the opportunity to purchase authentic Ugandan products, enhancing the travel experience for both local and international visitors.
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
26) Business Environment Survey
We conducted a pro bono survey to assess the challenges within Zambia's business environment before the 2021 elections, with a focus on key sectors such as mining, energy, manufacturing, and agriculture. The survey analysed the prevailing economic conditions and government policies that were influencing these sectors, providing valuable insights into the operational hurdles businesses were facing. The findings were shared with local and international stakeholders to inform better decision-making during a critical period in the country’s economic and political landscape.
27) Media Monitoring and Political Risk Assessment - Sovereign Debt
In the lead-up to the 2021 elections, we carried out extensive media monitoring and political risk assessment on Zambia’s sovereign debt, its economic situation, and the ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Our work included gathering information from local, international, and social media outlets to provide stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of the political risks and economic uncertainties surrounding Zambia’s debt crisis. The insights helped guide key business and investment decisions for both local and international entities engaged in or considering investments in Zambia.
NON-CORE FOCUS COUNTRIES:
BURUNDI:
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC (CAR):
28) Feasibility Study - Timber Industry
Conducted a feasibility study into establishing a timber processing plant in CAR, leveraging the vast untapped rare hardwood resources. The study focused on identifying the best locations for a timber concession, addressing sustainability concerns, and exploring shipping and logistics routes. It also included a security analysis considering the influence of UN, Rwandan, and Russian actors, along with areas of instability that could impact safe shipping routes and human resource availability. Additionally, the study examined US, UK, and EU sanctions and strategies to navigate the challenges they presented. Ultimately, it was determined that the business was not feasible at that time.
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO (DRC):
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
29) Market Study - Cocoa Export
Conducted a market study into the cocoa sector in North Kivu, focusing on identifying reliable suppliers while implementing measures to prevent child labour, secure storage facilities, and manage aflatoxins. The study explored logistics to Mombasa via Kampala, establishing payment security for small-scale farmers with Congolese banks, and navigating the ever-changing security landscape.
30) Supply Chain Development - Arts and Crafts Export
Identified sources for fabrics, statues, and decorative masks made from Congolese hardwood and beads, utilising indigenous, traditional designs for international export markets. The study covered locations ranging from Pweto to Kisangani, focusing on items sourced primarily from Manono.
31) Market Study - Sulphuric Acid Import
Examined the sulphuric acid market in the mining sector in Haut-Katanga Province for a commodities broker, providing insights into demand and supply trends, key players, future copper production volumes, main challenges, and logistical considerations.
ETHIOPIA: (part not on map)
8) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
GABON:
3) Supply Chain Development - Sustainable Timber
Through our research and outreach, we helped a US buyer establish a supply chain for rare, sustainable timber from Gabon, overcoming five years of their failed attempts of trying. Our network facilitated supplier identification, site visits, negotiations, financing from a Kenyan financier, and logistics, including securing licensing and customs clearance.
MOZAMBIQUE:
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection (part of Mozambique not on map)
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
SOUTH AFRICA: (not on map)
32) Supply Chain Development - Insect Based Protein for Animal, Bird, and Fish Feed Export
Searched across multiple African locations to mitigate supply chain issues faced by a UK-based animal feed wholesaler stemming from South East Asia. Identified a suitable supplier for a niche insect-based protein processor used in animal, bird and fish feed. Negotiated contracts including payment and shipping terms to ensure a smooth supply chain.
SOUTH SUDAN:
8) Analysis & Recommendations - National Revenue Protection
We produced a comprehensive report on cross-border smuggling across East Africa, identifying smuggling routes, goods involved, and the associated economic and security risks. Our findings explored solutions, including surveillance radar, to combat smuggling and enhance tax revenue collection.
9) Analysis & Recommendations - Wildlife Poaching Detection, Prevention, and Apprehension We put together a joined up solution around radar, drone technology, and silent, off-road electric bikes and produced a report on poaching (and habitat degradation) detection across East Africa, identifying the national parks in each country most likely to receive a return on investment from deploying this technology and their capacity to absorb this technology.
TUNISIA: (not on map)
33) Supply Chain Development - Insect Based Protein for Animal and Fish Feed Export
Searched across multiple African locations to mitigate supply chain issues faced by a UK-based animal feed wholesaler stemming from South East Asia. Identified a suitable supplier for a niche insect-based protein processor used in animal and fish feed. Negotiated contracts including payment and shipping terms to ensure a smooth supply chain.