In an age where technology infiltrates every corner of our lives, few stories are as captivating as those of tech entrepreneurs whose curiosity and dedication have led to groundbreaking advancements. Wycliffe Otieno and Wallace Kamau, the dynamic co-founders of Bestworlds IT Solutions, epitomise this narrative.

From a young age, Wycliffe was driven by an insatiable curiosity about how things worked. “I’ve always been fascinated by technology and science. This natural curiosity sparked my interest for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) systems and infrastructure,” he recalls.

This fascination, inspired by tech innovators, ignited a passion that has only grown over the years. The constantly evolving ICT field, with its challenges and opportunities, provided the perfect arena for Wycliffe to thrive.

Employment for youth

He met his business partner Kamau while they were still at Kenyatta University. Although pursuing different courses, they shared a vision: to become entrepreneurs who create employment opportunities for the youth. This shared goal laid the foundation for their future collaboration.

Kamau, with a Master’s in Construction Management from the University of Portsmouth, plays a crucial role in the firm, as he is responsible for the implementation of strategy and ensures that customer maintenance and contract obligations are adhered to. Together, the duo handles marketing, financial, developmental, and managerial decisions.

Founded in 2006, Bestworlds IT Solutions (BIS) has dedicated itself to providing ICT solutions to its clients. “We offer a fresh and innovative approach to the fast-growing ICT sector in Kenya. We aim to exceed client expectations through outstanding customer service, increased flexibility, and greater value, ensuring businesses run smoothly and efficiently,” Kamau explains.

BIS undertakes a wide range of projects, delivering a broad portfolio of information technology applications, solutions, and services to clients in various industries. These industries include manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, communications, media and entertainment, energy, transportation, consumer and retail industries, and government sectors.

Hardwork and research

Mentors have played a crucial role in Wycliffe’s journey, shaping his career with invaluable lessons in hard work, determination, and continuous industry research. “One particular client offered me a unique opportunity that significantly expanded my skill set. Hard work and determination are essential, but staying abreast of industry research is what keeps you ahead,” Wycliffe shares.

One of BIS’s notable projects involved integrating ICT in teaching and learning at a local school. Despite challenges such as limited accessibility and network issues, the duo made a significant impact by promoting holistic learning and overcoming these obstacles.

Wycliffe’s expertise in structured cabling and fibre optic networks has been instrumental in the company’s success. “Thorough assessment and planning are essential steps before designing a structured cabling system,” he notes, adding that this careful consideration has resulted in numerous successful projects and satisfied clients.

Besides Bestworlds, the duo co-founded Wright Contractors, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Among Wycliffe’s career milestones, he says the successful delivery of structured cabling and infrastructure projects stands out. “Seeing the satisfaction of corporate and organisational clients brings me immense joy and motivation,” he says.

Balancing entrepreneurship and ICT project management requires meticulous time management. “Prioritising tasks, doing what I love, managing my mind, and taking vacations are key strategies,” Wycliffe explains, while emphasising that maintaining a clear boundary between work and family and accepting help from others is also crucial.

When designing and deploying ICT infrastructure, he stresses the need for scalability, performance, security, and compliance. “Ensuring the infrastructure can handle growth, traffic spikes, and security threats is paramount,” he states.

Continuous learning is a cornerstone of the duo’s professional ethos. “Engaging in structured learning environments, gaining hands-on experience, and experimenting with emerging technologies are crucial methods for staying updated. This commitment to innovation has led to the application of new technologies and methodologies, significantly improving various projects,” says Wycliffe.
Challenging situations such as inadequate bandwidth and security vulnerabilities have been successfully resolved through proactive measures and innovative solutions. “Increasing bandwidth and addressing security issues are examples of my problem-solving prowess,” Wycliffe highlights.

Coursework and collaborations

A graduate of Kenyatta University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Sciences, he attributes his educational background to his success. “The programme provided a solid foundation in technology, complemented by practical coursework and collaborations with academia and government,” he says.

Looking ahead, Wycliffe envisions a future where advanced connectivity, AI, machine learning, and robotics will revolutionise industries. “Staying ahead of these trends is crucial for navigating the dynamic landscape of ICT systems and infrastructure,” he states.

To aspiring entrepreneurs, Wycliffe offers sage advice: “Focus on solving real problems, embrace failure as a learning experience, and conduct thorough research in the ever-evolving tech industry.”

Wycliffe and Kamau’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, hard work, and continuous learning. Their contributions to the tech industry and commitment to innovation serve as an inspiration to all those who seek to make a meaningful impact through technology.