SMEs - a big opportunity in Africa
SMEs - a big opportunity in Africa
Nothing is maintained. Roads, buildings, trains, road signs, grass verges. You name it, it is never cleaned nor maintained. Firstly maintenance can dramatically extend the life span of infrastructure. Secondly it is a great business/job creator.
These jobs also tend to be very manual, and therefore do not pose a threat to job creation and retention. But it never happens. An example is a IBR roof. Assuming the weather conditions prevailing will cause a roof to rust through completely in 10 years. Currently it will cost upwards of US$ 10 per square metre to put a new roof on, whereas a coating of paint will extend the life by a further 5 years if applied properly at a cost of US$4 per square metre. Thereafter, there is nothing to stop this process being repeated for 20 to 30 years. This clearly shows the benefit of maintenance over replacement.
Come on Africa. You desperately need SMEs that are sustainable. Here is a simple yet large opportunity to make a difference and also save your government money, while making your country more attractive to tourists and looking less like a destitute country.
SMEs a big opportunity in Africa - To learn more about this author, visit Dr. Rob Smorfitt's Website.
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There is a factor which is to be seen wherever I have travelled in Africa. The lack of infrastructural maintenance.
Nothing is maintained. Roads, buildings, trains, road signs, grass verges. You name it, it is never cleaned nor maintained. Firstly maintenance can dramatically extend the life span of infrastructure. Secondly it is a great business/job creator.
These jobs also tend to be very manual, and therefore do not pose a threat to job creation and retention. But it never happens. An example is a IBR roof. Assuming the weather conditions prevailing will cause a roof to rust through completely in 10 years. Currently it will cost upwards of US$ 10 per square metre to put a new roof on, whereas a coating of paint will extend the life by a further 5 years if applied properly at a cost of US$4 per square metre. Thereafter, there is nothing to stop this process being repeated for 20 to 30 years. This clearly shows the benefit of maintenance over replacement.
Come on Africa. You desperately need SMEs that are sustainable. Here is a simple yet large opportunity to make a difference and also save your government money, while making your country more attractive to tourists and looking less like a destitute country.
SMEs a big opportunity in Africa - To learn more about this author, visit Dr. Rob Smorfitt's Website.
Like this article? Share it with your friends
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