Q&A with George Steven Okotha

About George Steven Okotha

George Steven Okotha is a retired chartered insurer, economist, and farmer whose professional journey spans decades of contribution to Uganda's financial services sector. His recently published book, "Perseverance is Key," chronicles his experiences navigating the complexities of insurance, economic development, and agricultural entrepreneurship. The book has become a beacon of inspiration for professionals seeking to understand the intersection of business acumen, resilience, and purpose-driven work.

Throughout his career, Okotha has witnessed Uganda's transformation as an insurance professional, economic strategist, and community leader. His unique vantage point—combining technical expertise in insurance with practical experience in farming—has given him insights into both the formal and informal economies of East Africa.

The Journey to Writing

After spending most of his professional life advising others on risk management and financial security, George decided to document his own story. "Perseverance is Key" emerged from a desire to share the lessons learned from his career—the failures, the triumphs, and the quiet determination that characterized his path.

"I realized that the stories we don't tell are the ones that matter most," George reflects. "Young professionals need to understand that success isn't a straight line. It's a series of decisions, setbacks, recoveries, and the persistent belief that your work matters."

Lessons on Resilience

Central to Okotha's philosophy is the concept of resilience—not as mere survival, but as purposeful persistence. His book explores how insurance professionals, farmers, and entrepreneurs can build robust systems that protect their interests while remaining flexible enough to adapt to market changes.

"In insurance, we teach people about hedging risk. In farming, nature teaches you about uncertainty and adaptation. These lessons apply everywhere," he explains. "Whether you're managing a portfolio or planting crops, the principle is the same: prepare for what you cannot control, and execute with clarity on what you can."

The Economics of Purpose

As an economist, Okotha brings rigorous thinking to questions of economic development and individual prosperity. His work explores how personal success, family security, and community development are interconnected—a holistic view that transcends the narrow focus on profit maximization.

"Economic development isn't just about GDP," he argues. "It's about creating systems where individuals can pursue meaningful work, families can accumulate wealth safely, and communities can thrive together. That's what I've tried to document in my book and in my life's work."

Advice for Emerging Professionals

When asked what advice he would give to young professionals entering the insurance, finance, or agricultural sectors, George emphasizes several key principles:

• Build Deep Expertise: Become genuinely knowledgeable in your field. Superficial understanding will betray you when circumstances demand real judgment.
• Understand Your Customers: Whether you're selling insurance products or agricultural inputs, success comes from truly understanding the needs and vulnerabilities of those you serve.
• Embrace Diversity of Experience: Don't limit yourself to one sector or discipline. His experience across insurance, economics, and farming has made him a more capable thinker and advisor.
• Persist Through Uncertainty: Markets change, policies shift, and crises emerge. What matters is your commitment to learning and adapting rather than rigid adherence to outdated approaches.
• Connect Your Work to Purpose: Make sure your professional choices align with your values and contribute to something larger than yourself.

A Life of Contribution

What emerges from a conversation with George Steven Okotha is a portrait of a life dedicated to understanding systems, managing risk, and contributing to economic progress. His book "Perseverance is Key" is not a manual or a motivational tract, but rather a thoughtful reflection on how careers are built, how challenges are overcome, and how professionals can remain true to their purpose even as circumstances evolve.

In an era of rapid change and disruption, George's voice offers something increasingly rare: the wisdom that comes from decades of steady, purposeful work guided by clear principles and a commitment to learning.

"Perseverance is Key" is available through major booksellers across East Africa. For more information about George Steven Okotha's work and publications, contact your local bookstore or publisher.