Skip to content

Insights from the Field

Thought Leadership

I write about what I've lived — building commercial systems, leading teams, entering new markets, and navigating the complexities of doing business in East Africa. These are not theories. They're lessons from the ground.

Cornerstone writing

Six long-form pieces. Write to me for any of them and I will send it across.


  1. 01

    Building Commercial Systems from Zero: The GSM Beverages Story

    A long-form case study of designing and deploying a national route-to-market from a blank page.


  2. 02

    The Five Mistakes Leaders Make When Entering Emerging Markets

    Drawing from 16 years of market intelligence and competitive analysis work.


  3. 03

    Trade Marketing in the Digital Age: Blending Traditional and Modern Trade

    How to win in both the informal and formal channels — without losing focus.


  4. 04

    Women in Commercial Leadership: My 16-Year Journey

    A personal essay on navigating a male-dominated industry with grace and grit.


  5. 05

    How to Design a Route-to-Market That Actually Works

    A practical guide distilling my methodologies into actionable steps.


  6. 06

    From Uchumi to CCBA to GSM: Lessons in Career Progression and Leadership Resilience

    My career journey and what I've learned about growth, patience, and timing.


Plain paper sheets fanned on linen with a fountain pen and a brass paperclip, seen from above.
Not theories. Lessons from the ground.

Speaking Engagements

I'm available for keynotes, panels, and workshops on:


  • Route-to-Market Design


  • Commercial Strategy in Emerging Markets


  • Women in Leadership


  • Building Greenfield Commercial Operations


  • Trade Marketing Excellence


    Insights · Wahda Mbaraka