Archive for November 2023

Running a profitable and sustainable African tuck shop is no easy feat. The operating environment poses many challenges – from inconsistent customer demand, supply chain issues, rising costs and tight working capital to growing competition and economic uncertainties. However, implementing strong accounting, financial planning and cash flow management disciplines can make a major difference in…

Many entrepreneurs and business owners limit themselves by believing that no one will pay a certain price for their product or service. This self-doubt causes them to undervalue their offering and lose out on potential revenue. However, this notion is often just a myth we tell ourselves. With the right messaging and value proposition, people…

Africa has the world’s youngest population, with over 60% being under age 25 in most nations. This massive youth population presents both a challenge and opportunity when it comes to the future of agriculture across the continent. With the average age of farmers globally over 60 years old, engaging youth is critical for ensuring agricultural…

As a tuck shop owner in Gaborone, Botswana, I have experienced firsthand the various frustrations of dealing mostly in physical cash transactions – from security risks of keeping large amounts of cash on hand to challenges reconciling accounts and making timely payments to vendors. However, since integrating mobile money platforms over the last few months,…

As a financial business advisor deeply involved in understanding Africa’s agricultural landscape, the realm of livestock farming is a pivotal point of analysis. Let’s delve into the figures and facts, painting a vivid picture of the continent’s livestock production and its far-reaching implications. Livestock Production in Africa: The numbers are staggering. Africa stands as the…

As a business coach who works with spaza shop owners across Botswana, I’ve seen first-hand what it takes to build and run a successful informal retail business. After years of advising entrepreneurs in townships and rural areas, I’ve developed a simple framework to help spaza owners manage their finances, inventory, and operations efficiently. First, get…