In the latest episode of Investigation Insiders from Integras Intelligence, Forhad Razzaque sits down with Steve Grant, CEO of Castor Vali, to explore the unique challenges businesses face in Africa and how intelligence plays a pivotal role in mitigating risks across the continent. With years of experience in security operations, Steve shares valuable insights into the complexities of navigating the diverse cultural, political, and geographical landscapes that make Africa both a land of opportunity and risk.
From understanding local customs and colonial histories to managing high-level security threats like piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, Steve outlines how timely and reliable intelligence is crucial for safeguarding people, assets, and operations. His personal experiences growing up in Kenya, managing security in Tanzania, and participating in wildlife conservation projects such as the Rhino Charge offer a compelling perspective on balancing risk management with a deep appreciation for Africa.
Key Areas Covered:
Conservation and Community Engagement – Reteti Elephant Sanctuary: In the introduction, Steve and Forhad discuss the unique aspects of life in Africa, and Steve highlights nature, especially wildlife. He shares details of a recent family visit to the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, a community-led conservation initiative in northern Kenya. He explains how the sanctuary rescues orphaned and injured elephants, rehabilitates them, and prepares them for a return to the wild.
Importance of Local Intelligence: Steve emphasises the need for timely, accurate intelligence, whether from open or human sources, to manage the diverse and rapidly changing risks in Africa. He highlights the difficulty of adopting a “one-size-fits-all” approach, given the continent’s vastness, varied colonial histories, and numerous languages.
Challenges in Gathering Intelligence: Some African countries have witnessed periods where governments restricted telecommunications and the media, making it harder to access reliable information. Steve stresses the importance of finding local partners to navigate these challenges.
Case Studies on the Impact of Intelligence: Steve recounts incidents where a lack of intelligence led to tragic outcomes, such as the 2013 attack on Algeria’s In Amenas gas plant. Conversely, he showcases the positive impact intelligence can have, as seen in the reduction of piracy incidents in the Gulf of Guinea.
Supply Chain Security: Castor Vali’s work often involves ensuring that supply chains are protected from external threats, such as hijackings or theft, by understanding vulnerable areas along specific routes and mitigating risks through intelligence-led strategies.
Duty of Care for Travellers: Businesses sending employees to Africa must understand their responsibility for safety and ensure they are well-informed. Steve urges travellers to heed the advice provided and not become complacent, even if they have previously travelled to a region multiple times.
Geopolitical Shifts and Investment Risks: Steve discusses the increasing influence of Chinese and Russian investment in Africa, and how this is changing the security and business landscape for Western companies. He notes the need for a more strategic approach to counteract these shifts while ensuring security remains a top priority.
Listen Here:
Want to hear the full conversation? Listen to the podcast episode right here to gain first-hand insights into how Castor Vali continues to support businesses with intelligence-led security solutions across Africa.
