My goal is to carve out an exciting growth path for both local innovators and global corporations, realizing a dynamic nexus of entrepreneurial spirit and cross-border collaboration: Yuga KASAI of Africa Accounting Advisory Group

“I am determined to illuminate Africa's future through the power of accounting and to walk the path as the best CEO possible.” 

Yuga KASAI, founder and CEO of Africa Accounting Advisory Group, has a remarkable career that showcases his commitment and expertise. Holding the title of Certified Public Accountant Instructor, Yuga has worked in audit firms, accounting offices, and consulting firms, demonstrating a deep understanding of financial matters. With an MBA under his belt, he brought strategic insight to his roles, including that of Chief Financial Officer for a prominent business company in Africa.

Yuga’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in establishing and expanding the Africa Accounting Advisory Group as its CEO, overseeing its growth across seven countries. His journey is characterized by resilience, expertise, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, establishing him as a leader in the African financial landscape.

The Silicon Review reached out to Mr. KASAI for an interview, and here’s his response.

Interview Highlights

Q. How would you describe your professional journey so far? Tell us about a few roadblocks and learning lessons that helped you grow through the years.

I started my professional career by studying for the challenging Japanese Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam while I was a student. To pass this tough exam, I studied an average of 15 hours a day for two years. Subsequently, I embarked on a career as a CPA, focusing on teaching while gaining experience in audit firms, accounting offices, and consulting firms. After obtaining my MBA, I assumed the role of CFO at a business company in Rwanda.

The reason for my move to Africa was that my wife at the time had fallen in love with the continent, and I was faced with the ultimatum of either moving to Africa or getting a divorce. I had no other choice.

Now, I am expanding an accounting and consulting firm in Rwanda, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, and Japan. There have been several obstacles and lessons learned that have contributed to my growth as a professional.

While working on tax matters in various African countries, I faced opaque practices. I learned the importance of written communication in avoiding misunderstandings and conflicts when clear solutions were not available.

Africa Accounting Advisory Group operates in seven countries, and daily online interactions with team members from different cultures and mind-sets are routine. In this environment, role allocation, communication methods, and problem recognition within the team are crucial. Mistakes in these areas can stall projects, teaching me the importance of leadership in steering projects on course.

As a manager, dealing with pressure is inevitable. I have learned the importance of clarifying work priorities and efficient time management to reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed, as well as the importance of incorporating habits such as exercise and hobbies to maintain mental health.

Q. As the CEO of the company, what are your major roles and responsibilities?

Africa Accounting Advisory Group operates remotely with accountants stationed in seven countries, each with their own unique culture and mindset. From this management experience, I believe there are three key responsibilities and roles for a CEO.

Firstly, it is crucial to establish and thoroughly instill a vision and strategy within the company. Particularly in our firm, which values being a group of high-quality professionals, maintaining this standard of quality is essential, and we cherish our corporate guidelines. I regularly hold meetings to communicate our vision and guidelines to all employees, praising those who faithfully adhere to these principles.

Secondly, I believe that field strength is extremely important for a CEO. If the top executives don’t take the lead, employees won’t follow. Therefore, I prioritize taking action myself before motivating others.

Thirdly, I think a CEO should listen to others. While intelligent people may not understand the feelings of those less so, I, fortunately, was not very smart, to be honest. This allows me to genuinely listen to and understand what others are struggling with and what they truly need. Building trust and making better decisions based on employees' opinions is something I value highly.

Q. What can you tell us about Africa Accounting Advisory Group? What are its focus areas?

Africa Accounting Advisory Group is the first Japan-based accounting firm and consulting company specializing in Africa.

It is projected that Africa's population will reach 2.5 billion by 2050, potentially making it one of the world’s largest free markets due to its large young population, with several countries recording high economic growth rates. With over 50 countries, each with their own unique challenges and opportunities, many companies and investors are looking at the entire African market. This approach is being accelerated by the spread of digital technology, with further acceleration expected in the future.

Thus, Africa Accounting Advisory Group is committed to tapping into this potential of Africa and establishing a comprehensive support system for companies and investors who are looking at the entire African market by covering major African countries. By supporting such enterprises, we believe we are contributing to the economic development of Africa, which ultimately leads to the improvement of education and skills, health and welfare, technological innovation, industrial diversification, and job creation, thereby contributing not only to the African region but also to the development, diversity, and sustainability of the global economy.

Q. Can you introduce us to your services? What are their key features?

We provide key services, including international tax advisory, domestic tax advisory, bookkeeping, and filing services. Additionally, we offer CFO services such as financial planning, capital policy formulation, preparation of departmental financial statements, and budget management, as well as consulting services like due diligence and internal auditing.

Our team is composed of certified public accountants from various countries, including those with experience in major accounting firms. We have been involved in African tax accounting for about 10 years, until 2024, supporting over 100 companies. Our support experience spans across sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare, allowing us to provide customized guidance beyond sector and scale. Furthermore, internally, we are advancing the standardization of our quality management system to ensure consistent quality.

Q. How do you see Africa Accounting Advisory changing in five years, and how do you see yourself creating that change?  

Within the next five years, my goal is to actively contribute to the success of local startups by helping them in their management and fundraising endeavors. Simultaneously, I aspire to streamline the process of foreign investment and market entry, fostering a dynamic synergy that connects startups with international companies. Simply put, my goal is to carve out an exciting growth path for both local innovators and global corporations, realizing a dynamic nexus of entrepreneurial spirit and cross-border collaboration.

Q. Is there anything you would like to add before we wrap up?

I am determined to illuminate Africa's future through the power of accounting and to walk the path as the best CEO possible.

“Within the next five years, my goal is to actively contribute to the success of local startups by helping them in their management and fundraising endeavors. Simultaneously, I aspire to streamline the process of foreign investment and market entry, fostering a dynamic synergy that connects startups with international companies.”