Why Churches Thrive and Businesses Struggle in Africa:

In a thought-provoking conversation with Bishop David Oyedepo, I posed a question that has long puzzled me: "Why do churches in Africa seem to grow exponentially, while businesses struggle to survive?" His response was enlightening, to say the least. "Information, my son," he emphasized. "Many business founders fail to study and learn from those who have paved the way."

Bishop Oyedepo's words struck a chord. As I reflected on our discussion, I realized that the disparity between the growth of churches and businesses in Africa can be attributed to a single factor: the value placed on knowledge and information.

In the world of ministry, leaders like Bishop Oyedepo understand the importance of studying the successes and failures of those who have come before them. They invest countless hours in researching, learning, and applying valuable lessons to their own endeavors. This dedication to self-development has enabled them to build thriving ministries that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.

In contrast, many African business leaders and entrepreneurs neglect to prioritize knowledge acquisition. They often rely on intuition and trial-and-error approaches, rather than seeking out proven strategies and best practices. This lack of investment in information inevitably hampers their ability to compete effectively in the global marketplace.

As Bishop Oyedepo aptly put it, "Assumption is the mother of frustration." Without a deep understanding of their industry, entrepreneurs are ill-equipped to navigate challenges, adapt to changing market conditions, or capitalize on emerging opportunities.

My own experience echoes this sentiment. This year alone, I have invested over $100,000 in formal self-development, seeking out cutting-edge knowledge and expertise to enhance my 

professional capabilities. This commitment to lifelong learning has yielded tangible results, and I firmly believe that it is essential for anyone seeking to achieve success in their field.

So, what can African business leaders and entrepreneurs learn from the church's approach to information?

Invest in research, training, and mentorship to deepen your understanding of your industry.

 Learn from pioneers and leaders in your field, analyzing their strategies and best practices.

Allocate a portion of your earnings to self-development, ensuring continuous growth and improvement.

 Encourage experimentation, innovation, and creativity within your organization.  By embracing these principles, African businesses can bridge the knowledge gap and unlock their full potential. As Bishop Oyedepo so eloquently stated, "You can only rise to the depth of intelligence you operate with." It's time for African entrepreneurs to prioritize information, deepen their knowledge, and propel their businesses to unprecedented heights.

Dr. Stephen Akintayo is a renowned business strategist and leadership expert. He has consulted for numerous organizations and individuals, helping them navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth.