Kigame urges entrepreneurs to prioritise private sector over govt contracts
By Kenneth Mwenda, March 26, 2026Reuben Kigame, a renowned Kenyan gospel musician and a politician, has issued a stark warning to Kenyans considering doing business with the government. In a post on his official X account on Thursday, March 26, 2026, Kigame described the experience as “dangerous” and said it has led many citizens to “an early grave.”
“Be careful before doing business with the Kenya government. It has led many a citizen to an early grave,” he wrote. “You are better off investing in the private sector. My advice is, in case you find yourself a victim of the government’s unpaid bills, don’t kill yourself. Talk to someone instead of harming yourself.”
Kigame’s remarks echo long-standing frustrations among businesses over delayed government payments. Many contractors and service providers have reported months, sometimes years, of waiting for funds owed, often jeopardising their operations and livelihoods.
EACC faces independence concerns
In previous statements, Kigame has also criticised the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), questioning its independence and credibility.
“The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission can be the answer to Kenya’s political mess, socio-economic challenges and moral decadence, but it is heavily controlled by the executive, has been implicated in corrupt dealings itself, and lacks prosecutorial powers,” he said.
He went further to suggest that the Commission devote half its budget to civic education across counties, schools and religious institutions, and to use national media to gather citizen feedback on corruption.
The caution comes amid broader government efforts to modernise operations.
Experts note that government procurement, while potentially lucrative, carries unique risks in Kenya. Businesses must navigate bureaucratic delays, political influence, and, at times, non-payment for completed work. Private sector ventures, by contrast, are generally more predictable and less exposed to such systemic challenges.
For entrepreneurs and small business owners, Kigame’s advice is clear: weigh the risks carefully before entering government contracts.