SMEs

From chalkboards to cash flow

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Behind every resilient small business is an owner equipped to adapt, strategize, and grow—and education often makes the difference. 💡

A recent look at SME owners across Southern Africa shows a clear difference in education levels:

🔹 South Africa – 69% have at least a secondary education

🔹 Zimbabwe – 65%

🔹 Zambia – 58%

🔹 Malawi – just 37%

This difference points to an opportunity to strengthen Malawi’s SME sector by expanding access to learning.

SME owners thrive when they have:

  • Strong business planning skills
  • Effective communication and customer engagement
  • Digital fluency in a fast-changing market
  • Confidence with financial tools and services

Whether formal or informal, education gives entrepreneurs the foundation to build resilient, competitive businesses.

So—can Malawi’s SMEs grow to their full potential with stronger support for education? Let’s shape a future where every business owner has the skills to succeed.

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