The Insight Edge

East Africa’s market holds massive potential, but structural challenges continue to limit its growth.  With exports at approximately USD 8.3 billion against imports of over USD 20 billion, the region continues to face a persistent trade imbalance. At the same time, manufacturing contribution to GDP has declined in key markets like Kenya, even as peer economies demonstrate what is possible with the right focus and competitiveness.  In this episode, we engage in a conversation on:  East Africa’s export performance and trade imbalance;  the structural drivers of competitiveness, including cost of power, logistics, and access to capital; and  the role of governments and the private sector in building a globally competitive manufacturing and export ecosystem.  This is a conversation for policymakers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and anyone interested in the future of East Africa.  Watch the full episode, share your perspective, and subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of business, policy, and regional transformation.   🌐 Connect with us   🎧 Website Podcast Page: https://www.rsm.global/kenya/the-insight-edge  🔗 LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rsmeasternafrica  📸 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/rsmeasternafrica/  📘 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RSMEasternAfrica/ 

East Africa is one of the most closely watched economic regions on the continent, and for good reason.    In this episode of The Insight Edge, we unpack one of the most important questions facing the region today: Is East Africa truly driving its own story?    It is set to be Africa’s fastest-growing sub-region, while the wider Sub-Saharan Africa outlook points to growth strengthening to an average of 4.0% in 2026–2027. At the same time, EAC (East African Community) data shows regional trade has grown, but barriers to integration and execution still limit how much value the region captures.    In this episode, we discuss:  the realities behind the East African growth narrative;  the region’s policy and execution gaps; and  the role of entrepreneurs, professionals, and the private sector.    This is a conversation for policymakers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and anyone interested in the future of East Africa.    Watch the full episode, share your perspective, and subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of business, policy, and regional transformation.  🌐 Connect with us   🎧 Website Podcast Page: https://www.rsm.global/kenya/the-insight-edge 🔗 LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rsmeasternafrica  📸 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/rsmeasternafrica/  📘 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RSMEasternAfrica/ 

Welcome to The Insight Edge, a podcast by RSM Eastern Africa. Hosted by Ashif Kassam, this series explores the insights shaping the future of business, economic policy, finance, and industry across East Africa and globally. In today’s rapidly evolving world, staying informed is not enough. You need insight. You need perspective. You need an edge. On our monthly podcast episodes, you can expect: In-depth discussions on economic trends and policy shifts Practical guidance on navigating tax and regulatory environments Industry insights across manufacturing, hospitality, agriculture, and beyond Conversations with leaders, innovators, and changemakers Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you never miss a conversation that could give you the edge. 🌐 Connect with us  🎧 Website Podcast Page: https://www.rsm.global/kenya/the-insight-edge  🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rsmeasternafrica  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rsmeasternafrica/  📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/RSMEasternAfrica