So, now that i had a nice relaxing weekend with my dog Ruby (when I should have been studying!), I’m busily working away on this Sunday evening conducting research in an effort to finalize my business plan for The Shughuli Project. It’s no rush I guess, but I’m meeting with Fernando Coelho on Tuesday to gather some insight on running a non-profit, and kind of want to look smart, you know?
So in doing research for my business plan, I’m coming across a lot of interesting articles and perspectives on private sector development in African countries. Unfortunately, I have not had the chance to visit any African countries, and I think that the best way for me to collect ideas would be through primary research right now – but that’s just not an option at the moment. So, in my googling, this article from the World Bank was particularly interesting – highlighting four things necessary to propel African countries into an economic reform:
- Improving governance and reducing conflict
- Investing in people
- Increasing competitiveness and diversifying economies
- Reducing aid dependence and strengthening partnerships
By working with African entrepreneurs to help get their businesses set up, and to continue to work with them to ensure success, The Shughuli Project can help in three out of the four ways identified above… that’s kind of exciting, eh? Through investing in Africa’s people in the private sector, this will certainly aid in increasing competitiveness, diversifying economies, and reducing aid dependence once business gets up and running. These will form some of the requirements when trying to determine who is a suitable entrepreneurial candidate for receiving funding and business coaching in their respective communities.
I wish I could start making a difference today (sounds so cliche – but really!) – I am so impatient, but I think that by spending ample time in planning and research upfront, my project will be all the more successful. Also, thank you to those of you who have already provided feedback, help, guidance and support – you’re definitely helping to shape the plan into what I know will be a beneficial cause – eventually!
