DIVINE Ndhlukula (DN) is one of the most successful businesswomen in Africa. She is known for establishing and growing Securico Security Services into one of Zimbabwe’s top firms in that space. She then diversified into farming. Ndhlukula’s Zvikomborero Farms is also becoming a leading entity in its sector. In her new book released last week, she shared experiences about how to grow a small and medium enterprise (SME) into a large corporation. Our deputy group business editor Tatira Zwinoira (TZ) interviewed her at the launch of the book, Entrepreneurial Success Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy. Below are excerpts from their discussion:
TZ: Why did you decide to write the book?
DN: First and foremost, I have a lot of people that look up to me — everyone who is starting a business. I started this business when we had just gone over the Economic Structural Adjustment Programme (1990 to 1995). That was way back. It was a volatile time. People were losing jobs. There were a lot of layoffs. People were questioning whether they could start a business when people were losing jobs. There was just so much despondency. But, as they say, entrepreneurship is about seeing what the problems in society are, which require solutions. So I managed to do that.
TZ: The environment was a bit harsh?
DN: Our business has gone through a lot of cycles — the ups and downs of this economy. We went through high inflation in 2007 and 2008. From 2009, there was a semblance of order. But there had been a depression and people had lost their livelihoods. There have been cycles like that. However, it did not deter us. We still grew our operations. Because of this, people look at me and say you are a woman, and you are running a business in a sector perceived not to be suitable for women. All these things were totally against me.
People come to my inbox to learn from me. Everyday I receive invitations to speak at different business fora in Zimbabwe and outside. So I said I have a story to share. That is the reason behind this book.
TZ: What do the people say?
DN: People want mentorship from me. This is particularly so for young African men and women. Some of us are on our way out. If an elder dies, a whole library has just gone. This is why I felt I should share what I think, which can really be key for the prosperity of the next generations.
An insightful piece of work, so inspiring thank you