Victor Otieno has been appointed as Nairobi County Officer for Digital Economy and Startups (SMEs).
The avid entrepreneur shared the news on his Linkedin page that he was starting his new position on a contractual basis.
He has vast experience as a management consultant in startup development having worked at Viffa Consult for over 10 years.
At Viffa Consult, Victor Otieno worked as a Managing Director. He is also the founder. The serial entrepreneur has worked with over 500 SMEs and 400 partner organizations.
He has also traversed Eastern and South African countries, providing advice and research support to entrepreneurs for successful businesses
Victor Otieno has taken his role with a promise to deliver and work with the people of Nairobi to improve the playing field for startups in Kenya’s capital.
“Innovation can be sustained through localized startup support programs with global linkage,” he wrote.
“Incubation in Nairobi 85 wards is a great leveraging on TVETs. Share your thoughts on how best to support startups in Nairobi,” Victor asked on his Linkedin page, opening the field for residents to offer ideas on how best to promote startups in Nairobi.
He is deeply passionate about the African Entrepreneur. Mr. Otieno grew up in Nairobi’s Eastlands area where he witnessed firsthand the struggles that small traders underwent to fend for their families.
This happened despite the traders having the necessary drive and positive attitude. However, their businesses still failed. This is what inspired him to support SMEs. He is passionate to transform the lives of Kenyan and African entrepreneurs.
Victor is a qualified Certified Public Accountant. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance and Accounting) degree from Strathmore University.
Prior to starting his firm, Viffa Consult in 2013, Victor worked for several years in civil society and in the private sector.
After qualifying as a Certified Public Accountant, Bachelor Of Commerce (Finance and Accounting) from Strathmore University and working for several years in civil society and private sector, he started his firm in 2013.
Victor has worked with over 400 partner organizations including; International and regional NGOs, Universities, Government Agencies and Parastatals, Private companies, and Community Organizations among others.
He has also advised on and provided research support to entrepreneur support organizations, SME policy organs, SMEs and Startups.
Speaking at a past interview, Victor advised budding entrepreneurs to avoid adopting business models that don’t articulate their value proposition.
His advice is that an entrepreneur should first engage with an industry expert/mentor. Thereafter, they should strive to maintain a strong support system of family, friends and entrepreneurs.