Online Reporter
The Herald, 17 June 1982
EMERGENT businessmen should not regard their companies or firms as personal possessions, says Mr Paddy Zhanda, managing director of the Shingai group.
“It is a pity that Africans mainly see businesses as family affairs instead of organising themselves on a broader basis to go into more meaningful activities such as manufacturing,” commented Mr Zhanda.
“As long as we believe that going into business means running a fish and chip shop then we are not going to get very far in economic participation.
“Construction of an organisation based within family circles is not only unprofessional, it leads to stagnation.”
People with capital should not be afraid to accommodate others who have bright ideas, but lack funds to develop them. Mr Zhanda joined up with three other businessmen two years ago, having found that they had much in common, and formed Shingai Importers and Exporters (Pvt) Ltd.
Earlier this year a new subsidiary, Shingai Business Machines, which assembles electronic calculators and cash registers, began operations from a new factory at Marondera.
Involvement in the production of business machines, he said, meant vigorous training programmes at home and abroad, for technicians to service them.
But the new company has had its problems. Mr Zhanda said that as technicians were in short supply there was a constant threat of their looking elsewhere.
Foreign exchange restrictions meant less imported equipment and under-use of his technicians in some areas.
He disagreed with claims that Africans lacked the expertise to run businesses, but difficulties did exist.
Lessons for today:
The passage teaches us about the importance of professionalism, collaboration and continuous learning in business. It encourages a shift towards more ambitious and inclusive economic activities, highlighting the potential for growth and success despite existing challenges.
Mr Zhanda emphasised the importance of viewing businesses as professional entities rather than personal or family possessions. This approach encourages more structured and scalable business practices.
He advocates for African entrepreneurs to move beyond small-scale businesses, like fish and chip shops, and engage in more significant economic activities such as manufacturing. This shift can lead to greater economic participation and growth.
The importance of training and developing skilled technicians is underscored. Investing in education and training programs, both locally and internationally, is crucial for the success of more complex business ventures.
Mr Zhanda disagreed with the stereotype that Africans lack the expertise to run businesses. He believes that while challenges exist, they can be overcome with the right approach and mindset.
