A few weeks ago, ZBIN launched a programme in 5 regional countries and we deliberately excluded Zimbabwe. The reason for doing so was simple-finding whether we can successfully launch a product beyond our borders. The results are that we succeeded –over subscription in neighbouring countries. After the launch we then decided to come back home and what was the response? The response was luke warm and had we initially launched it here then we would have made a big blunder! We definitely would have failed and after failure then conclude that the product was not viable.
So this is the dilemma facing many entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe, if you fail locally then conclude that your project is not viable and discard it. Maybe this helps explain why Tuku launches his albums in South Africa first? It has not made sense for some of his fans why he would launch an album on foreign soil before coming back home, now it makes a lot of sense after what we experienced over the past few weeks. The message is think globally in a local context and unlock a lot of opportunities.
What is coming up?
We formed 3 important groups, the first one is the ZBIN shortages group-its meant to help members know where to find goods and products and not be taken by profiteering retailers. The second group is Dare International-this group helps to connect members from different countries-it is already doing wonders networking locals with neighbouring countries. The best asst in business is networking. Master networking and you will have a lot of benefits when it comes to finance, markets and a lot of other areas. A person who is well networked may not even need collateral for loans, may even get goods supplied on credit! So great group for members to know of regional business trends in Zambia, Malawi, South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique and Lesotho.
Taxation Update: There is exciting debate around tax going on in one of our groups and we expect to summarise the discussions and publish in an article. Interesting stuff on VAT requirements and the importation of goods by locals.
Do look forward to an advert looking for interns to work with ZBIN, we are going to be recruiting 2 or 3 interns to help the forum with finance, human resources and marketing. Great opportunity to work with an innovative forum that thinks beyond Zim.
ZBIN wishes you a blessed new month and new week
