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Elevating the SMME sector is key to ensuring long-term economic viability in Africa

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David Mparutsa, Head of Enterprise & Supply Chain Development at Absa Regional Operations
David Mparutsa, Head of Enterprise & Supply Chain Development at Absa Regional Operations

Despite commendable efforts and interventions by various state and private sector entities, there is no silver bullet to how economies across Africa and the small and medium enterprise sector will recover from the global health pandemic.

 

Across the continent, we see a K-shaped recovery as different economies and sectors recover at differing rates from the worst effects of COVID-19 through stimulus packages and global support funds. Countries that acted early and decisively and have the mechanisms to channel support to sectors in critical need of assistance are better placed to lead the recovery. From a business perspective, sectors such as tech and telecoms are running ahead while leisure and tourism and aviation have a long road to regain lost ground.

 

Simply put, one year on from the pandemic, there is no linear or homogenous road to economic recovery.

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So, where does this leave the critical SME sector in Africa?

According to the African Development Bank’s report African SMEs Through COVID-19, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) account for more than 90% of businesses and almost 80% of employment in African economies. The majority of these enterprises are to be found in the informal sector. Small business owners, particularly in the informal sector, can start afresh and pivot their business offerings according to the market needs.

 

But this adaptability and agility – the very qualities that make SMEs such a feature of the African economic landscape – are also the sector’s biggest Achilles heel. Anyone with an idea, the drive and the perseverance can start a small business in support of their families and even communities, but by its nature, it does not lend itself to long-term sustainability.

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A 2020 Catalyst for Growth report found that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was felt to a far greater extent in emerging markets due to SMEs in these markets being constrained by institutional inadequacies.

Depending on the scale of the SME, when COVID-19 hit, some were unable to pay their own and employee wages, others were forced to retrench staff, while many were unable to meet financial obligations as they were not prepared and equipped to withstand such a tremendous economic shock.

 

SMEs with very little in the balance sheet in terms of investments or liquid assets and highly geared struggled for survival during the pandemic. It goes back to only borrowing money for necessary projects and where the business owner has a line of sight of cash flow to service that debt.

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The April 2021 AfDB report African SMEs Through COVID-19 stated that in addition to immediate support and relief measures, governments should also “consider mid-to-long term structural policies for African SMEs that would enhance their resilience after the crisis”.

 

Key recommendations include:

  • strengthening awareness of opportunities for SMEs,
  • investing in skills and capacities,
  • speeding up the adoption of digital technologies, and
  • strengthening credit reporting institutions.

 

The way back from the brink

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Education to support the SME sector will be crucial, and this is where corporates such as Absa Bank play such a critical role through enterprise supply chain development programmes and supporting initiatives.

 

Africa is a vibrant and growing economic pot but still subject to regular economic shocks and bouts of turbulence, be that due to political instability or natural disasters.

 

The SME sector, in particular micro-enterprises, will have to learn the importance of contingency reserves and a culture of saving instead of a hand-to-mouth approach, which leaves zero room to manoeuvre and too exposed to external factors.

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SMEs can adapt to changing circumstances, but the sector needs to incorporate contingency and succession planning as critical parts of its make-up. In addition, adequately documented procedures which allow your business to continue to operate in your absence as well as optimal stocking and resourcing levels to drive efficiency will have to become part of the fabric of the SME sector.

 

During the pandemic, Absa provided financial assistance in payment relief to at least 670,000 customers in Africa, with approximately US$72m dollars in cash flow relief provided to our retail and business banking customers. In Ghana this included repayment moratorium of up to six months to businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 and a reduction in lending rate by 2% on qualifying SMEs.  We also incentivised the use of digital channels for convenient and safe transaction; in a market like Ghana, this translated into some fee waivers for online transactions.

 

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Furthermore, we provided counsel to small business owners and through our business development support programmes such Absa SME Clinics, Absa Business Connect series & Absa StartUp Training sessions, designed to upskill and empower SMEs.

 

Meaningful support of this critical economic sector requires multi-stakeholder involvement from both the public and private sectors.

 

The economic green shoots of recovery can be seen all over the continent in key data points such as the GDP outlook, which the African Development Bank predicts will grow at 3.4% in 2021, as opposed to a contraction of 2.1% in 2020, and there has also been a solid rebound in commodity prices. Allied to that are vaccine roll-out programmes, which will help boost confidence in various economic sectors.

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As a small business owner can adapt quickly, it is imperative that SMEs keep their ears close to the ground in terms of sector recoveries and quickly try and plug into those sectors that are potentially doing well and leading the economic recovery. Understand what your business can offer and link into the value chains of large firms in those sectors, maybe as a supplier or as a distributor.

 

The opportunities will be there. However, the SME sector will need to be agile and increasingly resilient in ensuring its long-term sustainability and ability to withstand any future shocks.

 

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By David Mparutsa, Head of Enterprise & Supply Chain Development at Absa Regional Operations

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People & Lifestyle

Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s Reign

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Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's Reign

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as the Asantehene, the King of the Ashanti Kingdom.

The celebrations, which began with spectacular fireworks witnessed by Otumfuo himself, will culminate in the Silver Jubilee anniversary on Akwasidaekese on June 12 at Dwabrem, Manhyia Palace.

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This milestone is a testament to Otumfuo’s impactful leadership, dedication to the Asante people, and contributions to education and research as the Chancellor of KNUST.

The event is being celebrated across Ghana, with well-wishes and congratulations pouring in from various quarters, highlighting the significance of this occasion for Asanteman and Ghana as a whole.

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Mr. Beast in Ghana: Surprising Visit Sparks Excitement

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Mr. Beast

World-renowned YouTuber Mr. Beast, known for his philanthropic acts, has been spotted in Ghana, specifically in Accra and Tema, sparking excitement among locals.

His visit has led to discussions about his choice of Ghana over other African countries, with some suggesting that the country’s popularity as a tourist destination played a role.

Mr. Beast’s presence in Ghana is part of his global outreach, as he recently gifted a Ghanaian $25,000 as part of his X (Twitter) giveaway.

Read Also: Producers of 'Beast of No Nation' return to filming in Ghana, causing upset in parliament

The YouTuber has been seen exploring the country and interacting with locals, with many expressing their desire to meet him and participate in his charitable endeavors.

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Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan in MP race for Ayawaso West Wuogon

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Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is set to enter the political fray by rubbing shoulders with notable personalities in the upcoming general elections.

The former Juventus midfielder is believed to be lacing his boots to face the likes of John Dumelo and the incumbent member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Lydia Alhassan.

While Dumelo and Alhassan represents the NDC and NPP respectively, Appiah is expected feature in the elections as an independent candidate.

This was revealed by the Spokesperson of the Ayew family Fiifi Tackie via X on Friday afternoon.

“Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote.

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If Stephen Appiah affirms the reported news, he will be following in the footsteps of other renowned figures in Ghana football who have indulged in politics recently.

Earlier this year, all-time top scorer of the Black Stars Asamoah Gyan was appointed as the sub-committee chair of Youth and Sports in the campaign committee of Dr Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party.

In acceptance of the appointment, Gyan emphasised the need to share hos ideas garnered through experience in the game.

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‘I have enough experience to contribute to sports – Asamoah Gyan reacts to political appointment
“I always ask myself, how do we create change if we don’t want to change? How do we spectate without being on the bench, and how do we score without being on the field?… All I know and will ever know, all I love and will ever love is SPORTS.” he stated.

Another figure in Ghana football who recently announced his intention to engage in partisan politics is Kwesi Nyantakyi, former Ghana Football Association (GFA).

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The former football administrator showed up as one of the candidates to contest in the NPP primaries for the Ejisu constituency following the demise of incumbent John Kumah.

However, it didn’t pan out well for the former Wa All Stars owner as he lost disappointingly.

He garnered a paltry 35 votes after close to 1,081 delegates had cast their votes in the parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held in the Ejisu Constituency on April 13.

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Rebecca Osam: A Champion for Women’s Empowerment in Africa

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In a heartfelt social media post, Rebecca Osam, Managing Director of Reflo Company Limited, Reflo’s TV, and Femme Fatale Productions Limited, has pledged her full commitment to empowering young women.

Rebecca expressed her desire to move beyond mere inspiration and instead build a deeper connection with young women, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.

Her passion for women’s empowerment stems from her experiences growing up in Africa, where she witnessed firsthand the oppression and lack of opportunities faced by women. This drove her to co-found The Florence Mensah Foundation with her mother, aiming to empower African women and girls, and encourage them to recognise their worth, strength, and potential.

Through her foundation and personal endeavors, Rebecca seeks to provide a supportive platform for young women to thrive. She aims to be a relatable figure, offering mentorship and encouragement to help them overcome challenges and achieve success on their own terms.

Rebecca’s dedication to empowering young women proves her leadership and commitment to creating positive change in her community. Her efforts serve as an inspiration to others, highlighting the impact one person can have in driving gender equality and women’s empowerment.

As Rebecca continues her work, her message resonates with young women across Africa: “Anything is possible, and I am here to support and cheer you on every step of the way.”

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Caradise Ghana Car Rental Facilitates Transportation for Global Christian Forum held in Accra

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Caradise Ghana Car Rental has once again successfully facilitated the transportation of over 240 participants from 60 countries across the globe for the recently ended Global Christian Forum in Accra, Ghana.

Numerous buses hauled the various participants from the Airport to their designated hotels from the 12th to 15th of April, 2024. Participants were then transported from their hotels to the conference grounds daily for the gathering of devoted Christians from the 16th to the 19th of April, 2024.

The forum began with a vibrant, joyful worship service held at Accra Ridge Church. The Rev. Dr. Casely Essamuah welcomed participants to Ghana and to the Fourth Global Gathering, and participants spent the day sharing their faith stories with one another across the litany of differences represented. 

The forum was climaxed with a dinner and 25th anniversary celebration at the Action Chapel Internation Church hosted by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams.

After the forum, the participants took the opportunity to visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum where they learnt about the great Pan-Africanist, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Ghana’s journey to inpendence.

The participants also spent a day in Cape Coast where they learnt about the millions of enslaved, dehumanised African men, women, and children at the Cape Coast Castle. Witnessing first hand how Africans were forcibly taken captive to the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe as objects of lucrative trade.

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DJ Khaled Announces Second Annual We The Best Foundation Golf Classic On June 12 & 13 in Miami Beach !

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GRAMMY® Award-winning, global megastar DJ Khaled proudly announces the return of his annual WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC for the second year in a row.

For 2024, the mega-popular charity event expands to two days on Wednesday June 12 and Thursday June 13 in Miami, FL. Given the demand by countless superstar artists, A-list athletes, and entertainers to participate, he needed to stretch the proceedings over two days!

Once again, the event will be sponsored by Jordan Brand, and all proceeds support the We The Best Foundationand its numerous efforts to bolster education. Stay tuned for the multitude of exciting confirmed guests, and more.

Khaled created a cultural groundswell and personally appeared on ESPN’s SPORTSCENTER to break the news of the second installment of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC today. Watch HERE.

Regarding the return of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC, he commented, “Last year, the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC brought out so many friends and family to make a difference, play some great golf, and have an incredible day for a great cause. This year, we’re going even bigger, and we thank everyone for their continued support. TEE UP AND BLESS UP!”

Last year, the inaugural WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC hosted Serena Williams, pro golfers Michael Block and Bubba Watson, Odell Beckham, JR., Shannon Sharpe, Victor Cruz, Jalen Rose, Terrell Owens, Marcus Jordan, Jeezy, Quavo, The-Dream, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Fat Joe, Cedric The Entertainer, Joey Fatone, and more. The foundation raised over $500,000 which benefited the enrichment of children and youth through educational programming, scholarships, and extracurricular activities.

More guests and partners for 2024 will be unveiled soon.

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