1. What inspired you to start the Africa Forward Initiative, and why did you choose
entrepreneurship as the path to ending poverty? 
My inspiration began with my efforts to improve the healthcare system in my community, which led me to witness firsthand the struggles of communities across Africa, particularly in rural areas where poverty is deeply rooted. Growing up, I saw brilliant minds with immense potential held back by a lack of opportunities, and I realized that real change must come from within—through sustainable solutions, not just aid.
Entrepreneurship is the key because it empowers individuals to create their own wealth rather than depend on external assistance. It fosters innovation, job creation, and economic independence. By equipping young Africans with the skills, resources, and mindset to build businesses, we are breaking the cycle of poverty and laying the foundation for long-term growth.
Africa doesn’t lack talent; it lacks opportunities. Through the Africa Forward Initiative, we
are shaping a future where ambition meets opportunity—where the next generation of
African entrepreneurs can rise, transform their communities, and drive economic
prosperity across the continent.
2. What are the key programs and initiatives Africa Forward Initiative is currently
working on?
The Africa Forward Initiative Inc. currently operates two interconnected programs
designed to drive sustainable impact:
The Microloans Program – This program provides small loans to aspiring
entrepreneurs, enabling them to expand their businesses. By fostering financial
independence, we empower individuals to create jobs and stimulate economic
growth within their communities. The proceeds from these loans directly support
our second initiative.
The Community Solutions Program – This initiative focuses on addressing
critical challenges in the communities where we operate. By reinvesting funds
from the microloans program, we work on sustainable projects that improve
infrastructure, healthcare, education, and overall quality of life.
Together, these programs create a cycle of empowerment, where
entrepreneurship fuels community development, and strong communities, in turn,
support more successful entrepreneurs (More infos is provided on our website)
3. Could you share a success story/stories of an entrepreneur whose life was
transformed by your organization?
Success#1
Kao Mengizani, known as Ishallo, is a skilled bread baker whose daily production has
skyrocketed from 45 to 500 loaves, thanks to support from the Africa Forward Initiative.
For years, Ishallo was known for her delicious bread, which she baked and sold from
her home. Her loaves were so popular that she would sell out early every morning.
However, she lacked the resources to scale her business. With an $80 loan from the
Africa Forward Initiative, she was able to purchase additional ingredients and
equipment, significantly increasing her production capacity.
Today, Ishallo supplies bread to three different outlets and has hired three women,
creating sustainable incomes for multiple families. Looking ahead, she plans to invest in
a solar-powered commercial oven, allowing her to expand her business even further
and continue uplifting her community.
Success#2
Nog Piyabalo is a dedicated sheep farmer whose herd has grown from just 30 to over
300 in a year, thanks to a loan and ongoing support from the Africa Forward Initiative.
Before receiving assistance, Nog faced significant challenges. Without financial
resources or access to veterinary care, his sheep were highly vulnerable to disease.
Additionally, the lack of proper shelter left them exposed to predators. With an initial
$100 loan, Nog was able to bring in a veterinarian to examine and vaccinate his herd
while also receiving training on proper livestock care.
Recognizing his progress, the Africa Forward Initiative provided him with a second loan,
which he used to build a shelter and acquire a guard dog for additional protection.
Today, Nog manages a thriving and sustainable sheep farm, providing stable income
not only for himself but also for several workers he has since employed.
Beyond his own success, Nog is committed to uplifting others. He has established an
association of local sheep farmers, fostering a network where members regularly meet
to share knowledge, exchange resources, and support one another in growing their
businesses.
4. What are some of the challenges your organization faces in supporting African
entrepreneurs?
The most pressing challenge we face is the overwhelming demand for support. We
have thousands of entrepreneurs on our waiting list, eager to receive funding to expand
their businesses. However, due to limited capital, we are unable to distribute funds at
the scale needed to meet this growing demand.
Access to sufficient funding remains a significant hurdle, as we strive to provide not just
financial assistance but also mentorship and resources to ensure long-term success for
these entrepreneurs. Expanding our capital base through partnerships, grants, and
investments is crucial to bridging this gap and empowering more individuals to create
sustainable businesses that drive economic growth in their communities.
5. What kind of support would be most valuable to help the Africa Forward Initiative
expand its impact?
To expand our impact, the most valuable support would be financial resources that can
help us meet the high demand for funding from aspiring entrepreneurs. With additional
capital, we could distribute more loans, support more businesses, and provide the
necessary resources to ensure these entrepreneurs succeed. Increased funding would
allow us to expand our programs, reach more communities, and create lasting
economic change across the continent. Investing in Africa Forward Initiative would
directly empower thousands of individuals, creating a ripple effect of growth and
opportunity throughout Africa.
6. What is your vision for the future of the Africa Forward Initiative, and where do you
hope to see the organization in the next five years?
In the next five years, I envision the Africa Forward Initiative expanding its reach across
the entire African continent. Our model of empowering entrepreneurs through
microloans, mentorship, and community-driven solutions will be adapted and
implemented in various countries, helping to boost their local economies. We aim to
become a key player in fostering sustainable development and economic growth,
providing opportunities for individuals to build businesses and create jobs. By then, I
hope the Africa Forward Initiative will be a well-established force that not only
transforms communities but also shapes the future of African entrepreneurship on a
larger scale.