Why I Stopped Working with Government Institutions in Kenya

Introduction

Working with government institutions is often seen as a lucrative opportunity. But for me, it became a nightmare. The promise of big contracts, consistent payments, and large-scale projects is tempting. Yet, behind the scenes, corruption, delays, and endless bureaucracy make it a losing game.

In this blog, I’ll share my experience with government contracts in Kenya and why I chose to walk away. This is not just my story—it’s the story of many young professionals who want to build clean, ethical businesses.

The Hidden Corruption Behind Government Contracts in Kenya

The problem with government institutions is not that they lack money—it’s that too many people in government think they are the money. This is how the system works:

• A basic website that should cost KES 350,000 is inflated to KES 2.5 million.
• Every person involved wants a share—CEO, accountant, procurement officer, board members, finance officer, and even KRA.
• You pitch. You present. You wait.
• Three months later, no feedback. Instead, you’re offered another “contract”—a bait to keep you hanging.

My Personal Experience

I was once asked for a KES 250,000 bribe to secure a website management contract worth KES 60,000 a month over 8 months. Think about that—paying more in bribes than I would earn from the actual work.

Even when you secure a contract, it’s a circus:

• You schedule a site visit—no one shows up.
• You follow up—“the boss traveled.”
• You try to deliver—now they’re asking you to type letters for them too.

This is not business. It’s a system built on exploitation, gatekeeping, and greed.

How Corruption is Killing Innovation and Opportunity

Government contracts in Kenya are a breeding ground for corruption. Here’s what this broken system is doing to young professionals:

1. Choking Opportunity

Young, talented professionals are discouraged because they can’t compete without engaging in corruption.

2. Delaying Service Delivery

Projects take months to complete because everyone is trying to “eat” instead of letting work get done.

3. Killing Innovation

Why would anyone build a great product or service when the only way to get paid is to bribe someone?

4. Creating a Culture of Desperation

Young professionals are forced to choose between their values and their livelihood. Many lose hope and leave the industry.

What Others Are Saying: LinkedIn Comments That Resonate

When I shared my experience on LinkedIn, the response was overwhelming. Here are some of the most powerful comments:

Wycliffe Opondo:

“Real change requires breaking free from the comfort of old habits. It’s time for a reset, a clean slate, and bold action.”

Hillary Kabillah:

“This post is bold, true, and painfully familiar. The tragedy is that it’s not a skills gap; it’s a system failure. Talented youth get discouraged. Entrepreneurs start avoiding public projects. And in the end, the taxpayer loses.”

Lucy Kariru:

“That’s how you know your values can’t be bought. It’s also lovely to know that integrity is running deep in people I look up to in the business sector such as you, Elvis.”

Florence Ngugi:

“This is where ethics meet professionalism. Keep your virtues intact. It’s the price you need to pay for credibility and long-term growth.”

These comments reveal a sad truth—Kenya is losing talented young professionals because the system rewards gatekeepers instead of producers.

Why I Choose Integrity Over Corruption

Here’s why I refuse to work with government institutions:

1. Clean Work Deserves Clean Systems

If I have to bribe someone to get paid, that’s not a business—it’s extortion.

2. My Reputation is Worth More Than Money

I would rather walk away from a contract than compromise my integrity.

3. I Value My Time

Spending months chasing payments or attending useless meetings is not a good use of my time.

4. I Refuse to Enable Corruption

By saying no to corrupt deals, I make a stand for ethical business.

How to Build a Successful Business Without Compromising Integrity

If you are a young professional or entrepreneur in Kenya, here’s how you can build a successful business without getting caught in corruption:

1. Know Your Values and Stand By Them

Before you even start, decide what you are willing to do and what you are not willing to do. Integrity should not be negotiable.

2. Build a Strong Network of Ethical Clients

Not everyone is corrupt. Find clients who value clean, honest work. If you’re in digital marketing, consider reading my guide on How to Leverage WhatsApp for Marketing Your Kenyan Brand.

3. Educate Yourself Continuously

Stay updated on industry best practices. Learn skills that help you stand out. You can explore the best courses I recommend at Tera Creations Courses.

4. Diversify Your Client Base

Don’t rely on a single client type. Serve SMEs, corporates, and international clients who value transparency.

5. Use Contracts and Legal Protection

Always have clear contracts. This protects you in case of disputes.

Final Thoughts

Kenya’s government system is broken, but that doesn’t mean your business has to be. Integrity is a choice, and it’s one that pays off in the long run.

If you’re tired of corrupt systems and want to build a clean, ethical, and profitable business, focus on serving real clients, delivering real value, and protecting your reputation.

And if you want to learn how to market your business effectively without falling into corruption, check out my guide on How to Use Blogging for Local SEO in Kenya.

Explore more insights on business ethics, marketing, and personal branding at Elvis W Online Blog.