#25
DENTSU KENYA
Dentsu Kenya stands out as the best agency from an integration, technology, consumer understanding, and sustainability perspective.
Founded by Samantha Siyieyio Kipury in 2010, the company started with a single client, Nokia (now HMD), who remains a valued partner to this day. At the time, the advertising industry in Kenya was dominated by a single agency holding 85 percent of the market share, making the establishment of a new, competing agency a formidable challenge.
Through unwavering perseverance and dedication to the craft and people, Dentsu grew from a one-person operation to a dynamic team of over 100 of the most creative, tech-savvy, and intelligent individuals in the industry.
Dentsu’s approach is deeply rooted in being people-centric, ensuring that its strategies not only drive business success but also contribute positively to society.
Dentsu’s commitment to excellence is evident in its integrated approach, cutting-edge technology, and deep consumer understanding. The company believes that the best solutions are born from collaboration and innovation. Its proprietary consumer data and pioneering advancements in technology and artificial intelligence (AI) enable the delivery of unparalleled insights and results for clients.
Founded on the principles of being a people-centric business, Dentsu prioritises the well-being and growth of its team and community. A steadfast dedication to sustainability is reflected in the company’s practices and the positive impact it strives to make on society. Dentsu believes that a business thrives when its people thrive, and this philosophy drives everything it does.
Today, the company boasts an impressive portfolio of clients and is committed to hiring young talent and promoting gender equity. Its workforce comprises 55 percent women and 45 percent men, underscoring its dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace.
Dentsu has led numerous innovative campaigns over the years, with the ‘Change the Story’ campaign for Malaria No More being particularly noteworthy. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to combat malaria and save millions of lives, not just in Kenya but across the continent. The campaign garnered both the Gold and Grand Prix awards at the Northstar People Awards. It not only raised significant awareness about malaria but also showcased Dentsu’s ability to craft impactful and meaningful campaigns that drive social change.
Dentsu’s portfolio additionally boasts the standout Mondelez Generous Stories campaign, which has garnered multiple accolades. These include: the Grand Prix for Best Use of Website Services and Best Digital Mobile and Social Craft; a Gold for Best Use of Cultural Insights; and a Bronze for Best Audio. These awards demonstrate Dentsu’s ability to deliver innovative solutions across various platforms.
Samantha Kipury, the visionary founder of Dentsu Kenya and Group Head of Media, has over 12 years of experience in integrated marketing communications (IMC) strategy and media. She has worked diligently to grow the company to a 40-client roster with over 100 specialists covering everything from traditional media to digital to customer experience. She is also the first recipient from Africa to win the global award for ‘Future is Female’ by Adweek, hosted in Johannesburg in 2023.
Joel Rao, Managing Director (MD) and Head of Digital Brands, leverages extensive experience in digital marketing and business solutions. He spearheads strategic direction across all performance marketing disciplines, ensuring client growth, success, and overall client relationship management and strategy.
Christopher Madison, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), brings international experience and a proven track record in scaling businesses and driving innovation. Under his leadership, Dentsu has integrated multiple agencies into a highly efficient network. His strategic vision and dedication to excellence have positioned Dentsu Kenya as a leader in the industry.
As encapsulated by Christopher, “As we look to the future, Dentsu Kenya is committed to leveraging the latest advancements in digital media, technology development, data analytics (M1), and AI capabilities. Our goal is to continue creating transformative experiences for our clients, driving innovation and excellence in every project. Our future is bright, and we are excited to lead the way in the ever-evolving advertising landscape.”
