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This weekend, I had the opportunity to watch a BBC documentary exploring the roots of instability in the Sahel region. To cut a long story short, one of the key triggers was the killing of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi by Western nations. His death led to a power vacuum, allowing rebel groups to regroup, particularly in Mali, and worsening the security situation across the Sahel.

However, what caught my attention most was not just the conflict itself, but the deep dysfunction that emerged within the governance systems of these countries. Despite billions of dollars in NGO aid and international support, accountability remained almost nonexistent. The results were shocking: Burkina Faso, after more than 40 years of independence, had only 3,000 kilometers of tarmac roads. In Mali, the purchase of a presidential jet was scandalously overpriced by billions of euros, exposing the scale of corruption.

One of the commentators in the documentary made a striking point about the role of aid: governments in the Sahel had learned to deliberately structure their budgets with deficits, knowing donor money would cover the gap — funds which they would then often embezzle.

This situation immediately reminded me of what happens when you build a business without strong systems. A business without systems mirrors the chaos of the Sahel: mismanagement, stagnation, and a complete lack of real progress, no matter how much money is poured into it.
People who fear accountability also fear systems, because systems expose weaknesses, inefficiencies, and corruption.

Today, we are witnessing the rise of Ibrahim Traoré, the young Burkinabè leader who is fearlessly dismantling old, dysfunctional structures and building new systems rooted in transparency, pride, and self-reliance. Naturally, this has triggered backlash from Western powers who had long benefited from the disorder.

The story of Traoré and the Sahel is more than just a political narrative — it is a timeless lesson for business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders everywhere:

Without proper systems and accountability, no amount of money, energy, or good intentions can drive sustainable growth. True progress comes from within — through discipline, structure, and a fearless commitment to doing things the right way.

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At RentMyMBA, we believe your business deserves a Traoré moment too.

If your business is struggling with inefficiency, low returns despite heavy investment, or chaotic operations, it might be a sign of system dysfunction. We specialize in auditing businesses, identifying gaps in structure and accountability, and helping you build solid systems that will drive long-term success.

Think of us as the “Ibrahim Traoré” for your business — dismantling what doesn’t work, and helping you create a stronger, smarter, and more resilient operation.

Ready to audit, rebuild, and thrive? Let’s talk. RentMyMBA is here to help you build a business you can be proud of.

About the author

Dr. Jjuuko Derrick, is a pharmacist with a keen business acumen. Having dedicated much of his career to engaging with business owners and employees, he brings a unique blend of pharmaceutical expertise and business insight to the table. As an entrepreneur himself, he is passionately committed to leveraging his technical skills and entrepreneurial experience to foster the growth and development of multiple businesses. Driven by a mission to make a meaningful contribution to the business landscape, he stands ready to empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive.