Zambian entrepreneur, Clever Mpoha, talks about what it takes to succeed in Africa.
Clever Mpoha discusses his path from an initial investment of $1,000 to growing a business worth $300 million in his new book, “The Business Mind of Clever Mpoha.”
He recounts his journey from a tiny village to building a pan-African Conglomerate.
Dr. Clever Mpoha is a household name in Zambia, known for his outstanding business acumen and philanthropic spirit. His story is an incredible source of inspiration. He started from humble beginnings in a remote village in rural Zambia, where his parents set up a small shop to sell commodities, instilling a solid merchandising bent in him.
A significant milestone in his life came when he attended a business leadership conference headlined by the famous Dr. Myles Munroe, world-respected for his powerful ability to motivate people. The experience inspired Dr. Mpoha and instilled a new determination to build something for himself. And that’s how the SAVENDA Group was born.
SAVENDA Group, which stands for SAVE Nations Develop Africa, started as a supply management and logistics firm and, through the years, diversified into several other sectors, including construction, agriculture,, energy, manufacturing, and insurance. The growth of SAVENDA Group coincides with Dr. Mpoha’s continued commitment to the Zambian people. SAVENDA participates in several Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives across arts and culture, healthcare, education, women and youth empowerment, sports, disaster relief, community infrastructure development, and animal welfare.
Dr. Mpoha’s passion for empowering African entrepreneurs and supporting the growth potential of businesses within Zambia and beyond has led SAVENDA Group to invest heavily in youth initiatives, with strong support to various childcare organizations, rural health centers, and community schools. His recent appointment as a member of the Advisory Board of the Thembekile Mandela Foundation is a recognition of his lifelong commitment to growing and developing the Zambian economy and supporting its people. Dr. Mpoha’s strong commitment to creating a better and brighter Africa, particularly for its youth, women, and the next generations, is a dream and intent shared by Ms. Ndileka Mandela and the Foundation.
“I believe in Africa. Our business model believes in Africa. We are going to be the economic boom in the world, and I want SAVENDA to be part of it. And if you have a business, be ready. The next economic boom is coming to Africa” – Dr. Mpoha ‘The Business Mind of Clever Mpoha.’
Besides his passion for business and philanthropy, Dr. Mpoha is also committed to conservation and the climate. SAVENDA Group has invested heavily in green technologies, with Savenda Electric being the first company in Zambia to manufacture and sell energy-efficient LED light bulbs. In addition, adopting software and dynamic management systems has seen SAVENDA Group serve the needs of its customers and employees.
Dr. Mpoha’s recently released autobiography, ‘The Business Mind of Clever Mpoha,’ explores the values necessary to turn a small business into a true success in Zambia. The book has been a valuable help to many other Zambian businesspeople. The experience picked up by Dr. Mpoha over multiple decades of developing the SAVENDA Group has seen him lead and mentor many other Zambians to professional success. As one of the premier employers in Zambia, Dr. Mpoha’s dynamic entrepreneurial spirit has transformed the lives of many people in the country.
“The advantage that Africa has over most western countries is her huge resources. Africa has plenty of oil, water, minerals, fertile land, forests and a youthful population looking for work.”- Dr. Mpoha ‘The Business Mind of Clever Mpoha.’
Dr. Clever Mpoha’s life story is a testament to what hard work and determination can achieve. His dedication to empowering Zambians and supporting the country’s economic growth has led to outstanding business success, and his philanthropic efforts have significantly impacted many beneficiaries. Dr. Mpoha’s story is one of inspiration and hope, showing that anyone can achieve their dreams with hard work, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose.
“Embrace failure, as you will meet it on your journey to success. And if you do, take your notepad and take notes. Then, you will be wiser and smarter.”- Dr. Mpoha ‘The Business Mind of Clever Mpoha.’
