Infinite Insight's Research Blog

Infinite Flash Poll: Attitudes toward Foreign Investment in South Sudan

2012-01-25T02:34:00.000+01:00

South Sudan is Africa's youngest nation, having gained independence on July 9th, 2011. Following decades of civil war, the country's infrastructure is in tatters; South Sudan is one of the least developed countries in Africa, indeed, the world. Hence, the new government is actively soliciting for foreign direct investment across various sectors of the economy: power generation, mining, agriculture, etc. To gauge opinions on investment among the South Sudanese, we included some questions in a recent opinion poll, sponsored by Infinite Insight's partner, D3 Systems.

Across the board, South Sudanese feel that the economy would benefit the most from South Sudanese investing in their own country (Mean Score: 3.6 out of a possible 4.0).

Investment from countries in the EAC. Europe and America as well as China would also be welcome, albeit at a lower level.

Investment from South Africa and North Sudan, however, is greeted with mixed feelings. South Sudanese seem to be most sceptical about Nigerian companies investing in their economy (Mean Score: 2.5)

While foreign investment is generally welcomed, respondents would like to see limits imposed on foreign ownership: 6 out of 10 feel that South Sudanese should hold the majority of shares in companies.

Nationally, only 30% would grant majority shareholding to foreign investors.

Across demographic groups, it is among the urban population (36%) and among the middle class (35%) that foreign majority shareholding would be most acceptable.

Note on Methodology:

Probability Sample with random selection of respondents
Achieved Sample: 1,020
Field Time: November/December 2011

GIA End of Year Survey: Global Barometer of Happiness, 2011

2011-12-29T23:49:00.000+01:00

While the world may be worried about economic prospects in the coming year, doom and gloom do not weigh down personal happiness: Net Hope stands at -2%, Net Happiness with one’s life at +40%.

Even the French, who expect the worst of the economy (Net Hope: -80%), still come in at global average when asked about their happiness.

In fact, only Romania recorded a negative net score, while Georgia and Egypt came in with neutral net scores.

Focus on Africa:

Five out of the eight African countries in the sample come in with higher Net Happiness Scores than the global average:

Nigeria, in line with its high Net Hope Score, leads the pack again with 83%, followed by Ghana with 72%
Egypt, on the other hand, achieves a balance between happiness and unhappiness; its net score is zero

Between these extremes, more than half of the populations of all but one of the remaining countries claim to be happy; in Kenya, just 47% express happiness with their lives.

The reasons for Kenyans’ unhappiness are not altogether clear – and neither are the reasons for Nigerians’ confidence…

Less than half of Kenyans claim to be happy; however, while people seem to be happy and content with their lives in Central, Nyanza and Rift Valley provinces, they appear depressed in Coast.

In contrast, in South Sudan, 6 out of 10 feel happy… making Kenyans look positively grim and morose in comparison.

Net Happiness by Demographics:

The GIA End of Year Survey does not define “happiness”; in fact, it raises questions more than it answers them. The survey identifies a handful demographic parameters, that may promote or impede happiness: globally, these seem to be religious belief and belonging to the upper echelons of society.

In contrast to the global population, however, Africans of the high income classes are less happy than members of the middle income classes; this is especially pronounced in Kenya.

Although in line with global and African trends, education and employment status have an especially strong impact on happiness in Kenya and comparatively little impact in Nigeria… possibly, Kenyans feel less comfortable “hustling” in the informal sector than Nigerians do.

Generally, religious belief seems to have positive effects on happiness; in Kenya, however, Muslims are particularly unhappy; whereas they are exuberant in Nigeria.

Download the International Press Releases with global results:

http://www.infiniteinsight.net/GIA/EOY_2011_Part_1.pdf
http://www.infiniteinsight.net/GIA/EOY_2011_Part_2.pdf

Note on Methodology:

The global barometer of hope and despair is an annual tradition initiated under the chairmanship of Dr. George Gallup in 1977 and is conducted every year since then. This year it was carried out by associates of WIN-Gallup International in 58 countries around the world.
A total of 52,287 persons were interviewed globally. In each country a national probability sample of around 1000 men and women was interviewed either face to face, via telephone or online.
Field work was conducted during November-December 2011. In general the error margin for surveys of this kind is ±3-5% at 95% confidence level.

Disclaimer: Gallup International Association or its members are not related to Gallup Inc., headquartered in Washington D.C which is no longer a member of Gallup International Association. Gallup International Association does not accept responsibility for opinion polling other than its own. We require that our surveys be credited fully as Gallup International (not Gallup or Gallup Poll). For further details see website: www.Gallup-international.com

GIA End of Year Survey: Global Barometer of Hope and Despair, 2011

2011-12-24T08:42:00.000+01:00

Since 1977, GIA carries out an annual survey to measure the world's expectations in the new year. In 2011, 50 countries participated, including the world's youngest nation, South Sudan; more than 52,000 respondents were interviewed. Infinite Insight carried out the survey in Kenya and South Sudan.

2011 has been a turbulent year in most parts of the world: global economic crisis, several countries being on the brink of bankruptcy; the Arab Spring; continued NATO operations in Afghanistan; the death of Osama bin Laden and the tsunami with consecutive nuclear accident in Japan...

Globally, pessimists now outnumber optimists: the net score contracted from +2% in 2010 to -2% in 2011; i.e. while 32% of the world's population expect 2011 to be a year of economic prosperity, 34% anticipate an economic downturn.

Nigerians emerge as the most optimistic, with a positive net score of 80%; the French, with a negative net score of 80%, the most pessimistic.

Focus on Africa:

Nigerians over the years have proven themselves indefatigable optimists again and again, even in the face of adversity; it comes as no surprise that, once more, Nigerians display this remarkable show of confidence, despite ethnic and religious strife and terrorist attacks (Boko Haram) being on the rise.

Understandably, the world's youngest country, South Sudan, is still elated over its independence: opportunities and prospects still seem to beckon even though the details of economic recovery and statehood have yet to be worked out.

The picture could not be more divergent when comparing two countries that featured prominently in the Arab Spring: Tunisians, having expelled their dictator and having conducted orderly general elections, now feel confident about their country's economic prospects as well as their personal wellbeing.

Egyptians, on the other hand, experience continued unrest and a doubtful future with the future role of the country's military undecided; hence, Egyptians are pessimistic both about the country's economic prospects and their personal wellbeing.

With the elections coming up in 2012 (the date as yet being undecided), the country's currency on a rollercoaster ride, soaring inflation and the country's military action in Somalia, Kenyans do not feel confident about the economy and only mildly hopeful about their personal prospects in the coming year.

South Africa, a member of the BRICS economies, would be the most affected African country by the global economic crisis; hence, South Africans take a dim view of the economy, although they try to be confident about their personal situation.

Focus on Kenya & South Sudan:

With Kenya being involved in military action against Al Shabaab in Somalia, Kenyans worry about reprisal terrorist attacks and the effects this will have on the economy in general and the tourism industry in particular.

Bordering on Somalia and harbouring the world's largest refugee camp, Dadaab, North Eastern province would be the first to feel the backlash of terrorist reprisals. Coast province is most dependent on tourism; hence, the mood is bleakest. In contrast, Nyanza, Central and Eastern
provinces feel much more upbeat about their economic prospects in the new year.

In South Sudan, the most optimistic regions are the areas around Malakal and Yambio; while uncertainty is highest in Rumbek.

South Sudan, of course, remains one of the least developed countries in Africa; whether the optimism
of its citizens is justified will largely depend on whether the new government will be able to contain
factional infighting and corruption, integrate migrants from the north and reach a lasting agreement with Khartoum on sharing oil revenues.

Impact of the GIA Global Barometer of Hope and Despair:

Jean-Marc Leger, President of WIN/GIA, summarised the findings of the 34th End of Year Survey as follows:

"The survey findings show that globally the glass is half full on hopes about economic upturn. Nearly as many express hope about economy in 2012 as those who express despair. But the regional picture is quite different. Europeans are overwhelmingly gloomy, Americans are less so, while both Asia and Africa are hopeful about economic prospects in 2012. In a world which is no longer Euro-American centric, global polls serve a useful service by placing such distinctions in their right perspective."

(Source: Global WIN/GIA press release)

Download the International Press Releases with global results:

http://www.infiniteinsight.net/GIA/EOY_2011_Part_1.pdf
http://www.infiniteinsight.net/GIA/EOY_2011_Part_2.pdf

Note on Methodology:

The global barometer of hope and despair is an annual tradition initiated under the chairmanship of Dr. George Gallup in 1977 and is conducted every year since then. This year it was carried out by associates of WIN-Gallup International in 50 countries around the world.
A total of 52,287 persons were interviewed globally. In each country a national probability sample of around 1000 men and women was interviewed either face to face, via telephone or online.
Field work was conducted during November-December 2011. In general the error margin for surveys of this kind is ±3-5% at 95% confidence level.

Infinite Insight Kenya - Our First Year

2011-12-02T15:20:00.001+01:00

We wish to thank our clients for making 2011 a very successful year for our young agency. We experienced rapid growth both in terms of projects and staff/infrastructure. Here's a recap of the most important milestones:

Staff Expansion:

When Infinite Insight was officially launched in January, we started with just two staff: field manager and DP manager. Now at year's end, the company employs four field managers, two DP managers, three research executives, an IT manager, administrative personnel and countless freelance interviewers and data entry clerks.

Expansion of our Board of Directors:

In August, D3 Systems (USA) decided to invest in the company and David Jodice (President, D3 Systems) and Matthew Warshaw (Vice President, D3 Systems) joined Margit Cleveland and Althea McCourt on the board. In November, we were joined by Jane Delorie, the ESOMAR country representative, and formerly MD/founder of Research Solutions and MD of IPSOS East Africa. Our board now comprises a strong and experienced team of professionals whose skills can be drawn on.

Acceptance into WIN/GIA:

In May 2011, Infinite Insight was accepted into the world’s largest network of independent market research agencies, WIN/GIA. We have since participated in a number of WIN/GIA global surveys and opinion polls, including the Global Corruption Barometer in six countries on behalf of Transparency International.

Project Volume and Coverage:

Since January, we have completed 49 projects in 13 markets across Africa. Projects include:

Agricultural research
U&A (FMCG & telecoms)
Product acceptance tests
IT concept evaluations
Opinion polls
Media research
Medical research
Ethnography
Stakeholder perceptions/policy implementation
Pricing research
Online moderation

Prospects for 2012

We consider the outlook for Infinite Insight in 2012 to be bright. The quality of our services has provided us with a number of repeat clients, who will continue to conduct research in Africa. Our pipeline for 2012 already has a number of confirmed research projects that will take place in the first quarter.

We will continue to focus on training our staff and with our partners we have planned technical training in a range of areas.

Nigerian Marketing Research Association (NiMRA) Holds 2011 Conference

2011-11-27T07:01:00.001+01:00

Yearly, the Nigerian Marketing Research Association (NiMRA) organises a Conference, a platform that brings research providers and buyers together. This year’s edition will be held next week, Novemver 30th, at Sheraton Hotels and Tower, Ikeja, Lagos. The theme for the Conference is “Future of Marketing Research Practice”.

According to Mr, Lanre Fasakin, President of NiMRA; and Managing Director, CMRG; this year’s Conference promises to be unique not only in its ability to provide insights regarding the direction the Market Research Industry is heading in Nigeria (in comparison to global trends), but also its drive to ensure that attendees (especially agencies staff) are better empowered to deliver clients (research buyers) expectations professionally and profitably. The occasion is also unique in that it will serve as a platform to confer the honour of “FELLOW” on some members who contributed immensely to the upliftment of the association.

On Tuesday November 29th (a day before the Conference), there will be World Press Conference at NiMRA Secretariat, 1, Amusa Oloyede Street, Off Tokunbo Alli, Off Toyin Street, Ikeja. That same day, the association will pay a Charity visit to Little Saints Orphanage, Palmgrove, Lagos as well as Old People’s Home, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos.

Messrs. J.I.D. Dada - Executive Director, UAC of Nigeria PLC and Tolu Ogunkoya – Chief Executive Officer, MediaReachOMD are among emiment personalilties expected to grace the occasion as Chairman and Keynote Speaker respectively.

NiMRA’s cardinal objective is to promote the use of marketing research as the scientific tool for effective decisions in all sectors of the economy as other progressive business climes have done to their advantage over the past several decades.

NiMRA also stands for the following among others:

Provision of educational information and social platforms for its members
Encouragement and inculcation of high technical standards and professional conduct among its members
Enactment of a code of conduct and practice for regulation of its activities; and,
Provision of useful suggestions as contributions to national and international legistations/judicial decisions that may affect the profession in particular and the marketing industry in general

This announcement was submitted by Patrick Anidi of Resmark Research, Lagos, Nigeria. You may contact Patrick at panidi@resmarkresearch.com

Infinite Insight Kenya is proud to be a sponsor of the 2011 NiMRA Conference.

Flash Poll: Kenya's Military Action Against Al Shabaab (Highlights)

2011-11-25T01:07:00.001+01:00

Following a series of high profile abductions in one of Kenya's leading tourist destinations, Lamu, as well as the Dadaab refugee camp, Kenya launched military action in southern Somalia with the aim of pushing back Al Shabaab and to prevent further incursions into Kenyan territory. To gauge the Kenyan public's support of their military, Infinite Insight included a section on this topic in a recent national opinion poll.

First and foremost among problems facing Kenyans today remain Unemployment (57%), Poverty (52%) and Corruption (35%). However, the wider problem area of instability in Somalia and its repercussions are gaining in importance: Al Shabaab is mentioned by 27%; Terrorist Threat by 16%; War in Somalia by 7%; and Refugees by 5%.

Kenyans have a clear conception of what Al Shabaab represents:

Terrorists - 33%

An illegal militia from Somalia       -   16%
Agenda to kill people                 -   16%
Are trained and armed Somali youths
who operate as instructed by their leaders   -   14%
A branch of Al Qaeda               -   10%

By the same token, awareness of Kenya's military action is high with 88%.

Among those aware of the military action, Kenya's incursion into Somalia is meeting with wide approval - 84% support it. With 5%, opposition is negligible, indeed.

Kenyans are very confident that their military will bring the operation to a successful conclusion: 83% are confident or very confident. Just 15% have their reservations about the chances for success.

On the other hand, Kenyans are very concerned about Al Shabaab reprisal attacks in Kenya. 88% are somewhat of extremely concerned. Just 6% have little or no fear of Al Shabaab retaliating.

The most likely targets for Al Shabaab attacks, according to respondents, would be Hotels and Tourists (71%), Shopping Malls (40%) and Foreign Diplomatic Missions (38%).

In summary, the Kenyan public is in full support of military action and very confident that it will be met with success; however, they are concerned that the incursion into Somalia will spark off reprisal attacks by Al Shabaab.

Methodology:

Nationally representative sample (n=1,000) of Kenyans aged 18 and above across all 8 provinces and urban and rural locations.
The poll was conducted between October 26th and November 5th, 2011.
Respondents were selected at random, using multi-stage random sampling and KISH-Grid selection.

Tables & Raw Data:

The tabular report and raw data (SPSS) with regional and urban/rural breakdowns and all background variables will be made available upon request at a modest charge:

Kenya: 15,000 KES (plus 16% VAT)
International: $ 200

Please send your Purchase Order to info@infiniteinsight.net

Infinite Insight's expanded Board of Directors

2011-11-24T01:47:00.001+01:00

Infinite Insight is proud to announce that Jane Delorie, David Jodice and Matthew Warshaw have joined Althea McCourt and Margit Cleveland as members of the board of directors.

Jane Delorie

Director

Jane has lived and worked in Africa for over 30 years with more than 20 years work experience in the research industry holding CEO positions most recently with Ipsos and previously with Research Solutions and Research International. She is founder and past Chairman of the Marketing & Social Research Association (MSRA) as well as past Vice Chair of the Marketing Society of Kenya (MSK). She is currently the East African representative for ESOMAR (the world research body) and is a member of the UK Institute of Directors.

Before making career in research, Jane worked with MCL Saatchi, General Electric and the British High Commission.

A founder of the Brand Kenya initiative, Jane is both passionate and deeply involved in social change initiatives and believes strongly in “volunteerism”. She is founder and chairs the board of trustees of The Children’s Village and is member and Board Chair of Maji na Ufanisi (a the local NGO providing access to water and sanitation in the slums and arid area of Kenya). She sits on the Board of Advisors of the University of Nairobi mentorship program, Greenhorn and is also on the Board of two East African companies Paystream Ltd and 3Mice Interactive Media Ltd.

Her client experience is extensive and includes an array of regional, African and multinational businesses, NGOs, and government agencies. She has presented at seminars and training programs around the world on strategy, research and marketing. Jane believes in ‘adding value’ to every activity she undertakes.

David Jodice

Director

David A. Jodice is the founder and President of D3 Systems, Inc. He has extensive experience worldwide in survey research management and analysis. Key areas of expertise include media audience measurement, public opinion polling, elections forecasting, and consumer studies.

After earning his PhD at Harvard, he taught at both Harvard and Georgetown Universities, joined Research Management Services in 1984, and created D3 in 1986 to provide a variety of services to government, media, and business.

Dr. Jodice joined the board of Infinite Insight, D3’s partner in Africa, in August 2011.

Matthew Warshaw

Director

Matthew Warshaw is the Vice President of D3 Systems. He has over fifteen years of social science research experience conducting public opinion surveys, media evaluations, measures of performance of effectiveness studies, and consumer studies.

Mr. Warshaw has extensive experience in setting up research operations, logistics oversight, and foreign personnel management, with particular experience in conflict environments and developing countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Chechnya, Haiti, Iraq, Kosovo, Nigeria, Pakistan, Yemen, and Iran. He also manages projects in more stable markets in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Gulf States, the former Soviet Union, and Latin America. He serves as the managing director of D3’s subsidiary, ACSOR-Surveys in Kabul, Afghanistan, and also leads many of D3’s business development efforts.

Mr. Warshaw joined the board of Infinite Insight, D3’s partner in Africa, in August 2011. He has a BA from the American University and an MA from Georgetown University.

Infinite Flash Poll: Election Date in Kenya

2011-11-22T01:01:00.001+01:00

Recently, Infinite Insight conducted a nationally representative poll on Kenyans' preference regarding the date of the next presidential election. Originally scheduled for August 2012, lawmakers argued for a deferred date, December 2012. Some even argued for a postponement until March 2013. The controversy about the legality of postponing the elections continues; the case is now pending with the supreme court.

Overall, Kenyans prefer August 2012 (48%), while 35% opt for December 2012. Only a miniscule minority (1%) prefers March 2013.

Among registered voters, who constitute 87% of Kenyans aged 18 and above, 50% prefer August 2012, Among those not registered to vote, it is a virtual tie between August (35%) and December (34%) 2012; almost a third of non-voters (30%) are indifferent (or not informed enough) toward the date of the election.

Interestingly, there are considerable differences in preference of one date or the other, when the poll results are broken down by province. While decisive majorities in Western, North Eastern and Eastern provinces prefer the earliest date, in Central, 61% opt for December 2012. In Coast province, there is also a strong preference for December, while in Nyanza, opinion is almost evenly divided.

In Nairobi and Rift Valley, August is preferred over December, but not overwhelmingly so, with 47% opting for August and a third for December.

In summary, in 6 out of 8 provinces, Kenyans expressed their preference for carrying out the elections at the earliest date currently being discussed.

Methodology:
Nationally representative sample (n=1,000) of Kenyans aged 18 and above across all 8 provinces and urban and rural locations. The poll was conducted between October 26th and November 5th, 2011. Respondents were selected at random, using multi-stage random sampling and KISH-Grid selection.

Launching: Infinite Insight Focus Suites

2011-10-16T00:37:00.000+01:00

Infinite Insight has expanded its capabilities in qualitative research: located at New Muthaiga Shopping Mall, in a leafy, up-market part of Nairobi, our venues are uniquely suited for doing research among ABC1 / LSM 10-17.

We now offer three suites to meet your research needs:

Suite 1: The Boardroom
Suite 2: The Lounge
Suite 3: The Meeting Room

The Boardroom:

Traditional, formal conference room for focus groups with 6 to 8 participants

Full length one-way mirror
Seating for 10 (8 respondents, 1 moderator, 1 note-taker)
White board / flip chart
High-end audio & video recording
26” TV & DVD for playback of stimulus materials
Access to wireless network
Seating for up to four observers

The Lounge:

Kenya’s first lounge-style facility for focus groups, screenings and creative sessions in an informal and relaxed atmosphere; observation of groups via CC TV in The Meeting Room:

Full length one-way mirror
Seating for 10 (8 respondents, 1 moderator, 1 note-taker)
White board / flip chart
High-end audio & video recording
42” TV & DVD Home Cinema for playback of stimulus materials
Access to wireless network
Seating for up to five observers in the Meeting Room (via CC TV)

The Meeting Room:

Corporate setting for small meetings, IDIs and paired interviews; also serves as observation room for sessions in The Lounge:

Full length one-way mirror
Seating for 6 (4 respondents, 1 moderator, 1 note-taker)
White board / flip chart
Audio recording
32” TV & DVD for playback of stimulus materials
CC TV for observing groups in The Lounge
Access to wireless network

New Team Members

2011-10-06T23:36:00.000+01:00

Management of Infinite Insight is pleased to welcome three new members to its team.

Peninah Githinji

Research Executive (qualitative)

Prior to signing on with Infinite Insight, Peninah was an independent consultant, carrying out assignments for TNSrms, AC Nielsen, Steadman Group, Millward Brown and other agencies in Kenya. An experienced moderator, Peninah is also well versed in carrying out ethnographic observations.

Maggie Muiruri

Research Executive (qualitative)

Maggie was research assistant and moderator for agencies such as Millward Brown, Consumer Insight and TNSrms. At Infinite Insight, she is now in training to add to her skills as a research executive.

Philip Kahuho

Research Executive (quantitative)

Philip holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in statistics (First Class Honours) from the University of Nairobi. His prior work experience includes internships as data analyst with the Coffee Research Foundation and the Coffee Board of Kenya.

Job Opportunity: Field Manager

2011-09-27T01:30:00.002+01:00

Infinite Insight Limited is a young dynamic research agency based in Kenya. The Company conducts research throughout Africa.

We are currently looking for an experienced Field Manager with strong skills and knowledge of quantitative research, and able to organise and manage field teams.

The right candidate will have worked for at least five years in the research industry, and handled a range of significant projects.

Honesty, Enthusiasm, Competence, and Dedication are our core attributes that we look for in our employees.

Please apply only If you meet these requirements.

hr@infiniteinsight.net

Please note: Applicants with less than 5 years experience as field managers in a reputable market research agency will not be considered.

Census Information on Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa

2011-09-22T00:26:00.000+01:00

Obtaining census data for countries across Sub-Saharan Africa can be a challenge; data may be obsolete, difficult to access, politically skewed, or altogether unavailable. One of our previous blog posts discussed these difficulties.

Hence, we decided to collate reasonably reliable information from a variety of sources: National Statistics Agencies as well as web resources (CIA Factbook, Wikipedia, Mongabay, Geohive, AllAfrica, etc.) and present this information on a corner of our website: http://www.infiniteinsight.net/country/index.html

So far, we are providing information on some basic demographics as well as regional population distributions for 26 countries, grouped by Central, East, Southern and West Africa.

These info pages are very much a work in progress; as time goes on, we hope to include more countries, update information and list additional relevant statistics. Feedback, suggestions or corrections are very much welcome.

Please contact us at info@infiniteinsight.net

ESOMAR Global Market Research 2011 – Africa Highlights

2011-09-18T05:52:00.000+01:00

Overview of the Global Industry

Having sustained heavy losses in 2009, the global research industry showed strong signs of recovery in 2010; while in 2009, the industry shrank by 4.6%, in 2010, it grew by 2.8%. In 2009, the global value of the industry stood at just short of $29 billion; in 2010, at slightly above $31 billion.

The highest growth rates were recorded in Latin America, with 13.9%; the Middle East & Africa region came in second with 4.3%. The region's share of the global research spend, however, remains unchanged at a mere 2%.

Africa's share of global research turnovers is gradually inching upward (1.1% in 2010 vs 0.9% in 2009); taken on its own, Africa recorded 10.1% growth; the Middle East, on the other hand, had negative net growth (-3%). Thus, without the Middle East, Africa actually rivals Latin America in terms of industry growth.

Developments in Africa

South Africa reasserts itself as the most valuable research market on the continent. It accounts for 65% of research turnover. West Africa, with $51 million, is the second most valuable market; net growth, however, was a paltry 0.3%. While in absolute terms, the East African market also recorded gains, high inflation coupled with currency devaluation across the region resulted in a contraction of research value by almost 5%.

Unfortunately, the ESOMAR Industry Report lists details for only 3 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. A huge gap separates South Africa from other African markets: the South African research market is comparable to the more ffluent BRIC markets (per capita research spend: Brazil - $4.22; Russia - $2.44). Kenya, on the other hand, is in the vicinity of China ($0.83); while Nigeria is comparable to India ($0.16).

Completion of our Focus Group Facility

2011-08-25T10:17:00.001+01:00

Infinite Insight has just completed the upgrade of our Focus Group facility. Located in a leafy and secure neighbourhood of Nairobi, our facility is uniquely suited for conducting qualitative research with upmarket respondents (ABC / LSM 10-17).

The facility features:

Full length one-way mirror
Seating for 10 (8 respondents, 1 moderator, 1 note-taker)
High-end audio & video recording
TV & DVD for playback of stimulus materials
Access to wireless network
Seating for up to six observers
Access to a variety of catering services
Secure parking

Our offices are located at New Muthaiga Shopping Mall on Thigiri Ridge Road, just a 5 minutes drive from Village Market and United Nations.

View Larger Map

Infinite Flash Poll: Kenyans rate Barrack Obama

2011-08-20T06:31:00.009+01:00

Recently, Infinite Insight participated in a WIN/GIA syndicated global study on Healthcare, the results of which should be available through any network member shortly. However, we decided to append a few questions of our own in order to capture the mood and opinions of Kenyans on several topical issues.

The poll (n=1,003) was carried out in 5 regions: Nairobi, Central, Rift Valley, Nyanza and Coast; data represent 68% of total Kenyan population. Both urban and rural sampling points were included. The poll was conducted from 30th July to 8th August 2011.

The election of Barrack Obama as the first US president with African roots was greeted with jubilation across Kenya; Obama's father having been Kenyan, his election success became a source of national pride. We were curious about how Kenyans perceived Obama almost three years down the line, especially since Obama has made it a point not to visit his "native" country since his inauguration.

I. Problems facing Kenya and the World

We began by asking which local and international problems were the most serious. Respondents were asked to use a 10-point rating scale, with 10 meaning very serious and 1 meaning not serious at all.

Poverty (9.0), followed by Rising Food Prices and Corruption (8.9 each), Drought in East Africa (8.6), and Refugees (8.0), emerged as the most pressing issues.

Global problems, such as the Global Economy and International Drug Trafficking came in considerably lower with mean scores of 7.5 each; closely followed by Global Terrorism (7.3).

The least important issues in the opinion of our respondents were US/Kenya Relations and Improving Relationships with Muslims worldwide (4.9 each).

II. Barrack Obama's Performance

Again using a 10-point rating scale, respondents were then asked to rate their satisfaction with President Obama's performance on each of these problems.

Kenyans were most satisfied with Obama's involvement with the fight against Global Terrorism (7.1), followed by Global Drug Trafficking (6.7).

The following graph compares ratings of problems and Obama's performance:

III. Quadrant Analysis of Obama's Performance

We plotted mean scores on a map: the vertical axis depicts mean scores on the seriousness of the various problems; the horizontal axis, ratings of Obama's performance. The average mean scores for problems and performance ratings define the quadrants.

The quadrant, which highlights Obama's achievements in the eyes of Kenyans, is constituted by problems that are rated as very serious and also attract higher than average satisfaction ratings. Although Kenyans don't seem to be overly enthusiastic, they count Obama's fight against corruption, his dealing with the Global Economy, and his measures against Global Terrorism and International Drug Trafficking among his achievements.

However, he is seen as failing on most problems that affect Kenyans directly: his satisfaction ratings are below average on highly important issues such as Rising Food Prices, Poverty, the Drought in East Africa and the Refugee Crisis.

To Kenyans, the state of US/Kenya Relationships and Conciliatory Moves toward Islam rank very low on the agenda; yet, Obama gets higher than average ratings on these issues.

Surprisingly, despite extensive coverage by the media, GMO Foodstuffs and the Ocampo Six are only modestly important to Kenyans; and Barrack Obama is not seen as excelling in addressing these issues.

IV. Overall Satisfaction with Obama's Performance

Finally, we asked respondents to give their overall assessment of President Obama's performance.

With a rating of 6.9 (out of a possible 10), Barrack Obama is still very popular among Kenyans; however, the initial enthusiasm seems to have worn off a bit.

Only in his "home province", Nyanza, does he still enjoy high levels of popularity (8.3); with 5.8, he is least popular in Central province.

V. Conclusion

In conclusion, Kenyans are still proud to see their "native son" leading a global super power; however, they are disappointed that "their" president has not taken sufficient interest in problems that affect them the most.

EARNING CASH FOR OPINIONS: The launch of MyVoiceAfrica’s online surveys

2011-08-15T13:52:00.004+01:00

Panel Services Africa in partnership with Infinite Insight have just launched MyVoiceAfrica – an innovative Market Research Community where respondents can earn cash from the comfort of their homes or offices, simply by giving their opinions in online surveys.

Online research is the fastest growing form of market research. All over the world hundreds of thousands of people are being rewarded for taking part in surveys every month to help marketing companies make better decisions. This global trend is now making its way into Africa, giving people throughout our continent the chance to participate in some exciting research and surveys designed to improve the quality of products and services relevant to them.

Without all the venue, transport and logistical requirements necessary for traditional market research, companies all over Africa are signing up for the online experience. Online research is accessible, cost-effective and time efficient, with companies getting regular results as their surveys come in.

Respondents from all over Africa can sign up to MyVoiceAfrica quickly and easily – all they need is an email address, internet connection and a bank account. They are sent an initial questionnaire to find out information related to their demographics and interests, giving Panel Services Africa all the information they need to prescreen the panellists and send them only surveys that are relevant and appropriate. The panellists, or members of the MyVoiceAfrica community, earn cash rewards as well as other incentives for taking part in surveys. As the surveys can be done in their own time, from the comfort of their home or office, the response rate is high and the people participating enjoy the experience.

Those who participate in the surveys are rewarded according to the time it takes to finish the questionnaire. Each questionnaire relates to a specific number of points, which can be exchanged for cash rewards in local currency. Payments are made directly into the member’s bank account, making this a safe, easy way to earn some extra income.

Membership is free, and anyone in Africa can sign up and start earning today.

http://www.myvoiceafrica.com

WIN/GIA Snap Poll: Reactions to the Death of Osama bin Laden - Africa Highlights

2011-06-20T08:31:00.013+01:00

The news of the death of Osama bin Laden at the hands of US Special Forces on May 2nd 2011 was received with grim satisfaction by some, disbelief and outrage by others.

As the world’s oldest and largest network of independent research and polling agencies, WIN/GALLUP INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION set out to gauge public opinion across 26 countries, covering 60% of the global population.

Infinite Insight, Kenyan member of WIN (WORLDWIDE INDEPENDENT NETWORK OF MARKET RESEARCH), carried out the survey in Kenya (Nairobi) and Tanzania (Dar es Salaam). Both Nairobi and Dar es Salaam had been the targets of terrorism before: on August 7th, 1998, the US embassies in both cities were bombed by members of Al Qaeda; hence, reactions to the killing of Osama bin Laden should be especially interesting, since they would not only be informed by 9/11, but direct experience.

This article takes a closer look at public opinion in the four countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, which participated in the Snap Poll: Kenya and Tanzania (fieldwork carried out by Infinite Insight); Nigeria (TNS-RMS); and South Africa (Topline Research Solutions). The global press release, issued by Gallup Pakistan, can be downloaded here

Levels of Support for the Killing of Osama bin Laden

Globally, there was considerable support for the raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound: 81% supported the action. However, just 39% were in support of the shoot to kill action; 15% would have preferred a different manner of execution (e.g. following a trial); a further 27% would have wanted to see Osama arrested and tried, but not executed. Just 9% were in outright opposition to the killing.

Among the sampled African countries, Nigerians were the most enthusiastic supporters of the killing (71%; compare to 61% in the United States), followed by Kenyans (57%) and South Africans (36%). Tanzanians were far less supportive, with just over a quarter (27%) approving of the killing.

Majorities (i.e. >50%) in favour of the killing were found in just five countries in the global sample: Nigeria (71%); USA (61%); Kenya (57%); India (54%); and Canada (52%). Opposition was highest in Tunisia (39%); Bangladesh and Algeria (34% each); Pakistan (33%); and Bosnia/Herzegovina (31%).

It comes as no surprise that support for the killing was generally much weaker among Muslims than among members of other religions. Only in Kenya (43%) and Nigeria (35%) was there sizeable support among Muslims; generally, Muslims across the four countries would have favoured arresting, but not killing, Osama bin Laden. Outright opposition to the killing was strongest among Muslims in Tanzania (33%). Tanzania also had the highest level of opposition to the killing among Non-Muslims (18%).

Credibility of the Operation

The swiftness of the US operation against Osama bin Laden, followed by the unceremonious burial at sea (without public verification of the identity of the corpse), resulted in wide-spread doubts in the veracity of US claims to have eliminated Osama bin Laden. Globally, barely over a half (53%) are convinced that Osama bin Laden was killed; 23% believe the report to be untrue; while a further 23% could not form an opinion.

In Nigeria and Kenya, majorities among Muslims and Non-Muslims alike believed that the person killed was in fact Osama bin Laden. In Tanzania, only among Non-Muslims is there a majority in support of that view. In South Africa, there is wide-spread disbelief even among Non-Muslims. Clearly, the American government’s strategy of handling the situation has resulted in a credibility problem.

Effects on Level of Global Terrorism

Globally, just 19% are hopeful that killing Osama bin Laden will help reduce the level of terrorism; 38% are fearful of the opposite effect; while 30% do not anticipate any change in global terrorism.

While it is no surprise that scepticism grows with decreasing support for US military action, it is remarkable that even among supporters there are substantial minorities who suspect that terrorism will increase as a result of the killing. Nigeria is the most optimistic among the four countries in this regard: 65% of supporters of the killing feel that terrorism will decrease.

Effects on the Popularity of President Obama

The swift and uncompromising action against America’s arch enemy was not carried out without a view to improving President Obama’s image, both domestically and abroad. Comparing the percentages claiming his image has improved with thise claiming his image had deteriorated, we calculated net scores. A positive net score is indicative of an improving perception, while a negative net score means that popularity has declined.

Overall, Obama’s image has improved as a result of the killing of Osama bin Laden: the global net score stands at 19%); among his own constituency, the net gain was higher still with 24%.

The following chart depicts the net scores of all countries participating in the survey.

If universal popularity was the objective, Obama does not seem to have accomplished it. In key countries, such as China and the Russian Federation – and even in Japan – Obama’s popularity nose-dived. In Pakistan, formally an ally in the “War on Terror”, the drop in popularity culminates with a negative 44%.

The net scores for the four African countries, broken down also by level of support for the killing, are as follows:

In three African countries, Obama succeeded in gaining popularity; in the fourth, Tanzania, he recorded neither gains nor losses.

Summary

Among the four African countries sampled, only two expressed unreserved support for the killing of Osama bin Laden: Nigeria and Kenya. South Africans and Tanzanians would have preferred for Osama bin Laden to be arrested and tried; however, almost a quarter of Tanzanians (23%) were opposed to the American operation.

This split persists in the question after the credibility of the American operation. While solid majorities among Nigerians and Kenyans believe that the person killed was in fact Osama bin Laden, less than half of South Africans and Tanzanians believed this claim to be true.

Nigerians were also the most optimistic about the effects of the killing on global terrorism; more than half expected terrorist activities to decrease – a view not shared by respondents in the other three countries.

With the exception of Tanzania, where popularity levels remained unchanged, President Obama recorded gains in popularity: slight gains in South Africa, but massive support in Kenya and Nigeria.

Note on Methodology:

Representative Opinion Poll in 26 countries, conducted between May 12th and June 2nd 2011.
Total sample size: 21,646
The error margin for national samples is generally +3-5% at 95% confidence level.

Disclaimer: Gallup International Association or its members are not related to Gallup Inc., headquartered in Washington D.C which is no longer a member of Gallup International Association. Gallup International Association does not accept responsibility for opinion polling other than its own. We require that our surveys be credited fully as Gallup International (not Gallup or Gallup Poll). For further details see website: www.gallup-international.com

New Email System for Infinite Insight Kenya

2011-05-29T06:42:00.000+01:00

There have been quite a few changes in recent weeks: new domain, new logo, new affiliation, and now, a new email system.

To send a mail to any member of the Infinite Insight Kenya team, just use the first name, followed by @infiniteinsight.net

In addition, there are two general email accounts to reach us with:

Please make the necessary changes to your address books.

Thank you very much

The Team at Infinite Insight Kenya

65th WIN/GIA Conference in Moscow

2011-05-14T01:27:00.002+01:00

Research Director Jaime Laia represented Infinite Insight Kenya at the 65th annual GIA (now WIN/GIA) conference, which was held from May 1st to 4th in Moscow. By all accounts, the conference was hugely successful; the organisers, our colleagues from ROMIR, not only assured that working sessions ran without a hitch, but also put together a stunning social programme.

Here is Jaime's report with some of the pictures and videos he took during the conference.

During the 65th WIN/GIA conference in Moscow, Infinite Insight was unanimously accepted as the representative /member of WIN/GIA in Kenya.

WIN/GIA is the largest association in market research and public opinion polling in the world, comprising over 60 leading independent market research and polling firms in their respective countries.

Apart from the prestige, Infinite Insight gained access to an exclusive network of research agencies and their capabilities and facilities around the globe – members undergo a rigorous examination process before being accepted; and, consequently, the most renowned experts in the world in various sectors are proud members of WIN/GIA.

WIN/GIA is well known for its expertise in sectors such as political opinion polling, sociological research, third world issues, advertising and media research as well as in the commercial fields of automotive, economic and corporate research.

The most noticeable characteristics/strengths of WIN/GIA are:

Only one member per country - top specialists
Unique pool of survey experience (50+ years)
Powerful combination of local and international technical expertise
Global coverage better than any other network
Understanding of complex issues
Reputation for high quality, authoritative work
Global ISO registration
All research conducted in strict adherence to ICC/ESOMAR International Code of Marketing and Social Research Practices

WIN/GIA also provides centralised, high quality project management

Based on its long experience of coordinating multi-country survey research projects, one of the many benefits is that the client has a single point of contact – one member assumes the role of project manager and takes central responsibility for ensuring that a project is conducted according to the specifications and results are delivered on time, as agreed. We are committed to providing the highest quality in our work.

Global Presence, Local Expertise

For more than 55 years, Gallup International members have demonstrated their ability to deal with the problems of conducting international research on a comparable basis. With only one member agency per country, each member profits from wide and frequent contacts with other members of the group as well as international clients. Yet each is a truly national institute with a profound local knowledge of the language, statistical sources, customs and cultural differences of its own country. This combination of local and international excellence makes Gallup International members the logical choice for all research needs.

The African Regional Committee

Margit Cleveland (Managing Director at Infinite Insight) was appointed as one of the heads of the African Regional Committee, along with Loula Zaklama from Egypt.

The nomination was due to Margit´s long experience in Africa and her commitment to the organization in the past whilst she was working in other agencies across Africa.

The Conference Events

After the first day was finished, ROMIR organised a splendid dinner at a restaurant reproducing the high-society environment in Moscow in the XVII century - The waitress and the musicians were dressed accordingly.

On the second day, ROMIR took us to an old bunker used during the cold war - The bunker is used nowadays a cinema, a museum, a restaurant and a club. The old structure has 18 floors below the surface and the air is sometimes difficult to breath, the humidity is somehow controlled by the thick iron walls across the long and dark tunnels.

During the visit, we experience the life of those who worked in the bunker and also what they used to eat – a little bit of bread and a glass of the strongest vodka I ever tasted… Basically just tasted…

Jaime Laia
Research Director
jaime@infiniteinsight.net

WIN / GIA Press Release (May 10, 2011)

2011-05-11T23:56:00.000+01:00

WIN / Gallup International: 19 new members join the network

Montreal, May 9, 2011 - The President of WIN/Gallup International, Jean-Marc Leger, is pleased to announce the arrival of new members within the organization. At the annual conference held in Moscow from May 1st to May 4th, 19 new members joined the association: ACSOR-Surveys (Afghanistan), MPG (Armenia), CRMS Research (Azerbaijan), Ibope Inteligencia (Chile), WisdomAsia-RisingSun (China), Tebbutt Research (Fiji), GORBI (Georgia), Centrum (Greece), Consumer Search (Hong Kong), Data Prompt (India), Red C (Ireland), Infinity Insight (Kenya), REACH (Lebanon), RAIT UAB (Lithuania), BJ Group (Morocco), PCPO (Palestine), Topline Research Solutions (South Africa), CMA Research (Sweden), EMRHOD (Tunisia).

Furthermore, the association elected a new board, including President Jean-Marc Leger (Leger Marketing, Canada), Vice-Presidents Matthias Kappeler (Isopublic, Switzerland) and Kancho Stoychev (BBSS, Bulgaria), and Laure Castelneau (IBOPE Inteligencia, Brazil), Peter Kenny (Colmar Brunton, Australia), Pascal Gaudin (BVA, France) Ijaz Gilani (Gallup Pakistan, Pakistan), John Smurthwaite (TNS Malaysia, Malaysia) and Vilma Scarpino (DOXA, Italy) to lead the organization.

Finally, the WIN/GIA network will release and publish three syndicated studies on current matters in Healthcare, IT/Telecom and Public Opinion throughout the next year.

WIN/Gallup International is the world's largest network of independent market research and polling firms and now includes 66 members with a total turnover of over 600 million and covering 89% of the world market.

For more information:
Jean-Marc Leger
President of WIN / GIA
Email: jmleger@legermarketing.com
Tel: +1-514-982-2464

Vacancies: SRE (Qual & Quant)

2011-05-08T04:31:00.001+01:00

Current Vacancies at Infinite Insight Kenya:

Senior Research Executive (Quantitative)
Senior Research Executive (Qualitative)

Requirements:

Applicants must have relevant agency experience and proven track record in:

Study Design
Questionnaire / Moderator’s Guide Development
Strong analytical and verbal skills
Establishing strong relationships with clients
Ability to meet targets

Career Development:

Dedicated, responsible, self-motivated and career-oriented SREs have the opportunity to be promoted to Research Manager within a year.

Remuneration:

Base salary plus performance bonus
Healthcare plan (individual)

Please send your CV to info@infiniteinsight.co.ke

Update: WIN/GIA Membership and New Domain

2011-05-05T03:11:00.002+01:00

On May 4th 2011, delegates at the WIN/Gallup International Association conference admitted Infinite Insight Kenya as a member to this global network of independent market research agencies.

Research Director Jaime Laia represented the company at the conference, which took place from May 1st to 4th in Moscow. A detailed report on the conference will soon be published on our blog. In the meantime, please visit the web sites of

We also want to inform our readers that Infinite Insight Kenya has launched its new web site; we can now be reached at

www.infiniteinsight.net

WIN/GIA: Japan Tsunami Snap Poll - Africa Highlights

2011-04-19T01:49:00.012+01:00

Infinite Insight Kenya is a candidate for membership in the WIN / Gallup International Association global network of independent market research agencies (membership to be confirmed at the annual conference in Moscow, May 1st to 4th 2011).

We were delighted to already participate in the latest opinion poll on global reactions to the recent earthquake in Japan, which was followed by a disastrous tsunami and leakage of radiation from damaged nuclear power plants in Fukushima. We participated in this global poll with two countries: Kenya and Nigeria.

I. Awareness of the Earthquake and the Nuclear Accident

Awareness of the earthquake that struck Japan was high, with 91% awareness globally. Across the sampled African countries, awareness of the earthquake itself was even higher, exceeding the global average.

Awareness of the leakage of radiation from damaged reactors at Fukushima power plant came in at 81% globally. In Cameroon, where 95% were aware of the earthquake, just 67% were aware of the nuclear accident that followed. Nigerians seem to have followed the news more closely than either Cameroonians or Kenyans: 85% were aware of the radiation leak; i.e. 4 % above the global average.

Both globally as well as across the sampled African countries, television was the main source of awareness of the events. In Africa, the internet was a marginal source at best, with the sole exception of Egypt, where 22% indicated that the internet had been their main source of information.

II. Impact on Attitude toward Nuclear Power

Although Africa is very far removed from Japan and, so far, does not seem to have been affected by radioactive fallout, the accident in Fukushima, nevertheless, elicited strong reactions in the African countries, which were covered in the survey.

The following graphic depicts net scores (positive minus negative responses) of approval of nuclear power for generating electricity.

Globally, the gap between approval and disapproval has contracted from 25% before the accident to now 6%. In Nigeria, the impact of the nuclear disaster has been very minor; in Egypt, on the other hand, the gap contracted from 43% to now just 15% (however, a majority of Egyptians still support nuclear power generation. Kenya was pessimistic about nuclear power before the accident; this disapproval has now become even stronger. Strangely, in Morocco, a reverse process seems to have been at work: although Moroccans still take a dim view of nuclear power, disapproval rates seem to be contracting sharply.

Although in this article, we want to concentrate on the African survey data, in this context, it is interesting to compare global attitudes toward nuclear power after the Fukushima accident.

The following graphic presents net scores (approval minus disapproval) across all countries that took part in the survey.

III. Japan’s Chances for Recovery

Globally, optimists about Japan’s ability to cope with the disaster outnumber the pessimists: while 38% feel that Japan will remain economically weak, 48% are of the opinion that Japan will recoup its losses, if not even emerge economically stronger than before.

Most of the African countries are slightly more optimistic than pessimistic about Japan’s prospects, with two notable exceptions:.

Egyptians are extremely confident in Japan’s resilience: 70% believe in a recovery against just 22%, who fear that Japan may be weakened.
Kenyans, on the other hand, are of the exactly opposite opinion: 71% believe Japan’s economy is weakened, while just 22% have confidence in the country’s recovery.

IV. Concerns about Nuclear Power Plants

On the entire African continent, only two nuclear power stations have ever been built; both are in South Africa (in Koeberg, close to Cape Town). Hence, both Kenya and Nigeria are thousands of miles - in any direction – removed from the nearest nuclear facility.

For this very reason, we decided to replace the global wording “in your country” / “in a neighbouring country” with “suppose your country had nuclear power stations”; thereby we hoped to elicit more realistic responses.

72% of Kenyans and 64% of Nigerians would be highly concerned about incidents, if their respective country had nuclear power plants.
75% of Kenyans and 60% of Nigerians do not feel that nuclear power plants would be properly secured, if their countries had any installed.

In the case of Nigeria, these reactions come as a bit of a surprise. While after the Fukushima accident only 21% of Kenyans are favourable towards nuclear energy, 63% of Nigerians are favourably disposed towards nuclear power, even after the accident; i.e. they would be concerned about safety and have little confidence in proper safety measures being implemented – and yet, they still very much would like to see a nuclear power plant installed.

This apparent contradiction can only be explained by the rationale that any source of electricity – even an unsafe one – is preferable to having no source at all. The epileptic power supply by NEPA/PHCN has become the stuff of legends and sarcastic jokes.

According to the ADTF Journal,* in 2002, the average Nigerian consumed 72kWh per annum; the average Kenyan, 121kWh; the average African, 514kWh; and the average South African, 4,542kWh.

* http://www.atdforum.org/IMG/pdf/nuclearpower_options_Africa.pdf

The PDF version of this blog post is available as download here

Download the WIN/GIA Global Press Release here

Note on Methodology

Representative Opinion Poll in 47 countries, conducted between March 21st and April 10th 2011.
Total sample size: 34,122
The error margin for national samples is generally +3-5% at 95% confidence level.

MSRA: CHRIS HARRISON, OUR CELEBRITY SPEAKER FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2011

2011-04-14T09:54:00.001+01:00

MSRA CELEBRITY TALK INVITE
5.30pm, 28TH APRIL 2011
At the Jacaranda Hotel Westlands

Theme:
‘Kenyan Marketing. Stuck in a rut?’
An interactive session with:

CHRIS HARRISON
Africa and Indian Ocean Chairman of Young & Rubicam Brands

Entry: free for MSRA members; 500/- for non-members (Drinks: Cash Bar)

Chris Harrison is the Africa and Indian Ocean Chairman of Young & Rubicam Brands, a collaborative network of marketing communications companies. He is also a local shareholder in our East African business, and lives and works in Nairobi Kenya.

Chris has 30 years of experience in brands marketing, and marketing communications. 18 of those years have been spent in Africa, where he now leads a network that offers 3 Agency brands (Y&R, Wunderman, and Silver Bullet PR) and covers 33 countries.

His thoughts on marketing in Africa (entitled Marketing Maverick) are read in national newspaper columns in 8 countries on the Continent every week,in magazines and on the internet on such influential trend sites as www.psfk.com

Chris is married with three children, and enjoys safari, fly fishing, public speaking and acting in his leisure time.

Chris’ early training as a reconnaissance soldier has always influenced his approach to life and business. He prefers to follow ‘the road less travelled’, and to surround himself with small specialist teams to achieve his objectives.

To confirm your attendance and participation, please contact Anne Wanyingi before or on 26th April 2011.
For membership subscription, please contact the Secretariat.

Anne Wanyingi
MSRA Secretariat

P.O .Box 16832-00620 C/O Research Solutions ltd.
Tel: 4452524/4445082/3 Fax: 4445081,
Email: anne@msra.or.ke.
Visit Website: www.msra.or.ke

MSRA Third Annual Conference: Africa, the new frontier?

2011-04-11T14:56:00.003+01:00

On Friday 25th March 2011, the Marketing and Social Research Association of Kenya (MSRA) held its 3rd annual convention at the Jacaranda Hotel in Nairobi. The event was well attended with over 40 participants.

Starting at 9 am and following introductory remarks from our Chair, Roger Steadman, the research community was treated to a very full program of talks and discussions from a wide variety of industry players. The keynote speakers included Bharat Thakrar (CEO, ScanGroup) whose speech was titled “Africa Rising”. In his speech, Bharat expressed a lot of optimism for the continent by depicting the journey for investment in the continent as being similar to that of the wildebeest migration; a risky affair but that which represented numerous opportunities once the risks were overcome.

Roger Steadman, MSRA Chairman

Shortly before lunch our 2nd keynote speaker, David Ndii, a leading EA economist, discussed the economic prospects for the continent in his speech titled “Economic Prospects for Africa”. David demonstrated how the Sub-Saharan region had experienced constant growth in the last 2 decades highlighting growth drivers as being improved governance, economic reforms, changing demographics and deployment of technology. The final keynote speaker was Dr. Julius Kipngetich, director of Kenya Wildlife Service, one of the government parastatals in Kenya, with his speech titled “Vision 2030”. Dr. Kipngetich began by highlighting the key milestones the continent had overcome over the past few decades noting the wheels of progress as being factors such as diaspora remittances, great opportunities in technology leapfrogging and fast infrastructure development in Africa. He spelt future challenges for the continent as being in various areas such as water, food, energy, unemployment, greed, reckless newly rich and resistance to bio foods. He added that majority of the African countries had devised ways to deal with the issues at hand and termed the Vision 2030 as being Kenya’s development blueprint pegged on the economic, social and political pillars, which was a response to the opportunities at hand and the challenges head. All of the keynote speakers expressed a lot of optimism for the continent’s growth and urged the industry to continue being proactive and creative so as to provide clients with value adding insights.

In between the keynote talks, 6 research papers were presented. These included a presentation from Millward Brown EA Ltd titled “Africa’s Drums Pick up Rhythms out of Darkness- A Look at the World’s future Frontier” by Chris Karumba and Enock Wandera, which took participants through the successful journey the continent had made so far with regards to growth and opportunities, as well as a presentation from SBO Research Ltd titled “The Narrowing Digital Divide” by Faith Oneya. Faith’s presentation demonstrated Africa’s fast changing digital status and its flattening effect on the world. Faith concluded that the mobile phone and the internet were the 21st century’s “fishing rods”. Two other presentations were also made from TNSrms by Anna Ndung’u and Barry Nyaundi. Anna’s presentation titled “Africa High Definition” sought to demonstrate the key drivers making the continent attractive to investors which she noted as being its great beauty and reason for tourism attraction, great agricultural opportunities- 600million hectares of cultivatable land capable of feeding the whole world- infrastructure upgrades, modernizing trade and private education. Barry’s presentation on the other hand titled “Success Factors in Product Development in Africa” highlighted product superiority, proper product definition, synergy and controllable variables as being key in successful innovation in Africa. Two more presentations were also made from Synovate Kenya by Samuel Muthoka and Richard Wahiu and Hilda Kiritu. Samuel’s presentation dubbed “Africa Youth, the Next big Thing?” sought to enlighten the audience on the need to engage the youth in product development noting that this population was fast growing and its spending power was also constantly increasing. Richard and Hilda’s presentation titled “Financial Opportunities in Africa” enlightened the audience on the trends of financial access in the continent noting that though challenges were present, great milestones continued to be made in this area.

To conclude the conference, an open discussion was held which sought to answer the question posed by the theme. Whilst the views generated from this discussion were many and varied, majority agreed that despite the many challenges, there was real potential in the continent which could not be ignored; that all the ingredients were at our disposal and it was up to us to make Africa the continent of choice for growth and investment opportunities.

Jane Delorie, ESOMAR representative for East Africa

Once again the Association was proud to celebrate winners of the various awards during the gala dinner that concluded the conference. Winners of the 2011 MSRA conference included, Richard Wahiu and Hilda Kiritu - Winners of the Best Paper Award for having submitted the best written paper, Barry Nyaundi - Winner of the 1st Runner Up Paper Award, for having come in a close second in the Best Paper Award category, Anna Ndung’u- Winner of the ESOMAR Best Presentation Award for having delivered the best presentation at the conference and Samuel Muthoka - Winner of the People’s Choice Award for having impressed the audience as voted by them.

Hilda Kiritu and Richard Wahiu- Best Paper Award

Barry Nyaundi- 1st Runner Up (Paper) Award

Anna Ndungú- Best Presentation Award

Samuel Muthoka- People's Choice Award

The Association was also most grateful to the sponsors who supported the success of both the conference and gala dinner. These included SBO Research Ltd and Consumer Options Ltd for sponsoring the two coffee breaks during the conference, ESOMAR, for sponsoring the lunch break as well as the Best Presentation Award (by offering a free pass to an ESOMAR event) for the 3rd year running as well as TNSrms for sponsoring the gala dinner that concluded the conference. We look forward to an equally successful convention in March 2012.

Anne Wanyingi
MSRA Secretariat

P.O .Box 16832-00620 C/O Research Solutions ltd.
Tel: 4452524/4445082/3 Fax: 4445081,
Email: anne@msra.or.ke.
Visit Website: www.msra.or.ke