The Chief Executive Officer of Margins ID Group, Moses Baiden, has stated that many African companies struggle to compete on the global stage due to concerns about corporate governance, transparency, and institutional systems.
According to him, African businesses often face a credibility challenge when seeking international partnerships or investments because of existing perceptions that their structures and operations do not meet global standards.
Speaking in an interview with Bernard Avle aired on Monday, July 13, 2026, Baiden said African companies often begin from a disadvantaged position because of stereotypes and assumptions about the continent’s business environment.
He explained that beyond an individual’s national identity, African companies also carry a corporate identity that is sometimes viewed negatively by global stakeholders.
“Whether it is an African legal identity, like I’m Ghanaian, and also a corporate identity, you start from a negative position because you have the stereotypes and underlying assumptions,” he said.
Baiden noted that some investors perceive African firms as lacking proper governance structures, effective compliance systems, and adequate transparency, making it difficult for them to attract capital and build international partnerships.
He said these perceptions are reinforced when companies fail to establish strong corporate systems that demonstrate accountability, professionalism, and alignment with international business practices.
The Margins ID Group CEO added that the challenge is partly rooted in historical narratives that have shaped global perceptions about Africa and its capacity to build successful institutions.
He, however, stressed that African companies can change this narrative by prioritising good corporate governance, strengthening internal systems, and ensuring they operate in line with international expectations.
Baiden said improving governance standards will be critical for African businesses seeking to expand globally and position themselves as credible partners in the international market.
