Worst Businesses You Should Never Consider Starting in Kenya

Offline Taxi Services 

Due to the changing dynamics within the transport industry, starting an offline taxi service in Kenya may not be a good business concept in the current environment. 

The advent of digital platforms, as well as the increasing use of ride-sharing apps, has substantially altered the transportation industry. Kenyan consumers now favor online taxi services for their convenience, safety, and efficiency over traditional offline ones. 

These digital platforms offer real-time tracking, secure payment mechanisms, and user feedback, fostering a degree of confidence and openness that is difficult to match in offline services. 

Furthermore, the cost of developing and maintaining a fleet of vehicles, as well as the associated operational costs, might be prohibitively expensive for offline taxi firms. Online platforms, on the other hand, make use of existing infrastructure and technology, making them more adaptable and cost-effective. 

As a result of Kenya's market dynamics and consumer preferences, an offline taxi service is less viable and competitive than its digital competitors such as Bolt, Uber and Little Ride among others.

Textile and Apparel Manufacturing

The textile manufacturing industry was once a booming business venture. However, the sector has faced numerous challenges in the recent past. The greatest challenge that makes textile and apparel manufacturing a worst business in Kenya is the influx of cheap imports, the high cost of production and the ever changing preferences of consumers. 

For these reasons, Fineducke has classified the business as a risky venture. Moreover, research has shown that changing market dynamics and intense competition makes textile manufacturing to be a less promising business for one to start in Kenya. It is thus advised for individuals or companies interested in starting a business in Kenya to seek other alternative sectors that have better growth aspects. 

Printing and Publishing

The traditional printing and publishing was once a lucrative market for any entrepreneur who was interested. However, with the changing dynamics, the industry is no longer lucrative as it was in the past. 

The advent of digital media and internet platforms has reduced the demand for physical printed publications. Starting a printing and publishing firm in Kenya can be difficult due to factors such as high operational expenses, changing consumer habits, and tough competition from digital alternatives thus making it a bad business for an entrepreneur to start in Kenya. 

For greater long-term potential, entrepreneurs can look into digital routes within the media industry or other growing sectors.