For Robert Ochieng, money is not just a currency, it is a mirror of life goals. Once you connect with it on a personal level, it stops being confusing and starts being empowering.
The CEO of Abojani Investment, who switched from IT to the finance world, which subjected him to a lot of sacrifices, Robert studied at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Technology.
His thirst to stay ahead in the tech field saw him pursue professional certifications, such as Oracle Database Illustration, which positioned him for essential roles in renowned institutions, including Equity Bank and Guarantee Trust Bank. However, witnessing the complexities of the stock market and its impact on ordinary investors, Robert was inspired to create a community where people could learn, share, and grow financial knowledge.
“People were making mistakes silently, thinking they were alone in their struggles. I realised we needed a space for honest conversations about money.”
"It is not enough to have the passion, you must also have the right qualification and meet the regulatory standards. People always trust advice that is sound."
This realisation birthed Abojani Investment in 2018, a platform dedicated to connecting personal finances with life goals. What began as a side hustle has evolved into a full-fledged enterprise that offers financial masterclasses, investment advice, and corporate training. Abojani’s online community, which started with a modest Facebook group, has grown to more than 90,000 members across platforms, creating a vibrant space for financial literacy.
Despite its successes, building the company had its hurdles. Navigating Kenya’s regulatory landscape for financial advisory services meant that Robert had to invest in earning certifications, including one from the Institute of Certified Investment Financial Analysts.
‘‘It is not enough to have the passion, you must also have the right qualification and meet the regulatory standards. People always trust advice that is sound.’’
The entrepreneur’s philosophy on money was shaped by his upbringing and a belief in lineage. Growing up, he was inspired by his grandfather, an entrepreneur who taught him the value of resilience and innovation.
‘‘The biggest achievement you can ever have is that of lineage. I know there are many successes that we are given but everyone is running away from lineage, we are buying or borrowing success from all over what people think but I believe that if everyone just focused on their lineage, they will be in a much better place.’’
Apart from mentorship and enjoying football, the father of two loves hanging out with tech buddies. He says that life should be one; if you separate your social and business friends there are a lot of conflicts that come up.
As an influential financial literacy advocate, Robert believes that when people understand and master their finances, they unlock their potential, which he says will make them live free from the stress and confusion that money often brings.
-Marion Sitawa