Educational Media Reviews Online

Africa Open for Business offers ten stories of indigenous entrepreneurship in various African nations. The documentary begins with statements that Africa is an untapped market with an emerging middle class. The film is not so sanguine as to claim that African businesses face no obstacles, but it does give the audience a diverse selection of realistic and optimistic displays of home-grown African businesses.

Providing stories from garment manufacturers, a housing financier, an animation designer, clearly illustrate the successes, the problems, and the potentials of such enterprises in Africa. Two common themes in the stories seem to be the businesses’ need for good marketing and customer loyalty. The Nigerian children’s clothing manufacturer Ruff ‘N’ Tumble stated that they once ran out of the “Made in Nigeria” labels before they ran out of the clothing. Many Africans indeed seek out domestic-made products. 1000 Cups of Coffee, a Ugandan coffee shop, stated that it strives to “sell the concept” and does so by advertising at hotels and targets middle-aged individuals. This outstanding film goes on to describe the benefits of Africans employing Africans, including better working conditions and benefits.

As a balanced and ingenuous documentary should, Africa Open for Business also carefully discusses the impediment and outright threats to African businesses. It is difficult if not impossible to secure local financing, and foreign banks often frown upon African entrepreneurs. Government corruption and tax burdens on small businesses are common problems. What is consistently conveyed throughout is the African business people’s spirit and persistence, if not devotion, to the nurturing of sustained domestic growth in Africa. The stories are inspiring and the individuals are laudable.

Africa Open for Business is an indispensable resource for those interested in business in Africa. It should also be noted that the complimentary website http://www.africaopenforbusiness.com/business.htm has outstanding resources, such as links to the International Trade Administration, for promoting business in Africa. The commitment of director Ms. Pineau to the cause of this film is praiseworthy, and indicative of similar levels of commitment among the fine entrepreneurs presented in her work. I highly recommend this documentary to all audiences.