For every entrepreneur, conducting market research before starting a business is important because it helps identify customers’ needs and business opportunities. Aniseni Munkhondya from Ibugulira in Chitipa District put this lesson into practice after receiving business training and capital support through the Lusubilo IOVCY II Project. The knowledge he gained helped him choose a butchery business, which is now providing income for his family.
During the training, Aniseni learned about market research and other important business management skills. When he assessed the businesses in his community, he found that many people were already running grocery shops. He therefore decided to invest in a butchery instead of entering an already crowded market.
The business is helping Aniseni earn money to buy farm inputs and meet his family’s household needs. He has also started saving through a Savings and Internal Lending Community (SILC), something he was not doing before the training. In addition, he now works together with his wife when making decisions about their household resources.
“Before the training, I did not know the importance of understanding a business. After the training, I learned how to run a business and make better decisions,” Aniseni said.
Aniseni hopes to continue improving his family’s financial situation, with plans to buy a motorcycle in the future. His experience shows how combining business capital with practical training can help people make informed business decisions and build a more secure future.
