This archive report was first published on 24 December 2019.
With a PhD in Management and a background in waste management, Dr. Aghan Joshua Oscar has built a successful career in Kenya. As the CEO of Continental Renewable Energy, he has achieved numerous milestones, including starting a recycling company and developing innovative roofing tiles and drive-way blocks from post-consumer plastic mixed with sand.
Dr. Oscar's journey to success has not been without its challenges. He has learned the importance of innovation, resilience, and wise partnership choices. In an interview, he shared his experiences and lessons learned in business, including the dangers of trusting family and friends.
Dr. Oscar's biggest money mistake was poor close supervision of his business, which led to the failure of two ventures: a sugar jaggery business in Rongo and a fitness gym in Kisumu. He has also come to believe that risks should be insured and that mitigation should include clear business contracts and compliance.
One of the most significant losses Dr. Oscar has faced was the death of his wife, who played a key role in his business. This experience taught him the importance of women in family businesses and the need for clear business contracts and compliance.
Looking back, Dr. Oscar would re-align his partners and choose them wisely based on their passion, inherent characters, and business acumen skills. He believes that going into business is the better way of creating wealth, as it gives you the freedom to exercise your ability and exploit your potential to a maximum level.
Dr. Oscar saves through making long-term financial investments in ventures such as investment vehicles, which offer certain returns and a clear path to achieving them.
Originally published in the Saturday Nation's Saturday Magazine on December 24, 2019.
