Youths Urged to Pursue Dreams Amid Job Scarcity
The entrepreneur's appeal comes as Malawi grapples with high youth unemployment and a shortage of formal sector jobs.
BLANTYRE, Malawi— A young entrepreneur is calling on Malawian youth to work harder in pursuit of their goals, especially as white-collar jobs become scarce, writes Mayamiko Phiri.
Edward Malunga, CEO of Banthu Art and Crafts, emphasized the importance of starting small and persevering.
"If one isn't very careful, they can end up living a miserable life regardless of their potential," Malunga said.
"Work as a slave and live as a king."
Malunga observed that many young people with good business plans are hesitant to start small, preventing them from fully realizing their dreams.
Banthu Art and Crafts, established in 2001 in Blantyre, manufactures footwear including safety boots, security boots, military boots, shoes, and leather goods.
The company can produce up to 100 pairs daily, with capacity to increase based on demand.
Currently employing 20 full-time workers, Banthu aims to expand its workforce to 100 within five years.
Malunga called for increased support from the private sector and government agencies to help local businesses thrive.
The entrepreneur's appeal comes as Malawi grapples with high youth unemployment and a shortage of formal sector jobs.