20 Aug 2014

Kgalagadi South MP, Mr John Toto says skills and knowledge of business management are key elements of a business.

Speaking at the Junior Chamber International Botswana Business networking meeting in Tsabong, Mr Toto advised the youth to seek advice from experienced entrepreneurs on how best they could go about in starting business.

Mr Toto said business had its own advantages and challenges, hence the need for those interested in operating one to acquire skills and knowledge in business management to ensure success.  

He advised the youth to search for the best business plans in order to compete globally and to undertake market research on preferred businesses as it could provide valuable insight on how to minimise business risks and identify sales opportunities.

The Kgalagadi South MP urged the youth to take advantage of government funding which has been availed to assist the youth interested in starting business projects.

Mr Toto said business name should be registered and operating licence and permit should be secured to operate business legally and freely.

He asked the upcoming entrepreneurs to learn about the business legal steps and labour laws. He also encouraged them to form business partnerships as there were suitable in society.

MP Toto told the young people that business needs focus and a vision, adding that young entrepreneurs also need to learn more about their customers, competitors and the private sector as a whole.

He stressed the importance of customer care, branding, having long term vision for the business and creating job opportunities for fellow citizens.

For her part, Ms Gloria Semele said business owners set their own targets, drive the business vision and ensure that those businesses become sustainable.  

Vice president of JCI in Tsabong, Gomolemo Tshotledi said Junior Chamber International Botswana is a non-profit organisation that is working with different vulnerable people in the society to help them achieve their goals. It promotes innovation and leadership.

He said it aims to develop professionals and young entrepreneurs says the Vice president of JCI in Tsabong during the Business networking meeting held in Tsabong on Wednesday.

The purpose of the meeting was to give Tsabong youth the opportunity to interact, share ideas, skills and experiences on business and also help empower them to create positive change in the society.  ENDS