Sanlam has translated its business plan guide into Zulu to assist budding entrepreneurs whose first language is Zulu.
Clement Nhlangwana, spokesperson for Sanlam’s Business Market, says a well conceptualised and well formulated business plan is often critical to the success of a start-up business.
While it’s challenging enough to put one’s business plan onto paper, doing so in a language other than your mother tongue is all the more difficult.
20% of South Africans speak Zulu
According to the Census 2011, a fifth of South Africa’s population, or more than 11.5 million people, list Zulu as their home language. This makes Zulu the most widely spoken language in South Africa.
Nhlangwana says the need to offer assistance to entrepreneurs ties directly to the vital role that small and medium enterprises (SME) play in the South African economy. “Approximately 61% of South Africans are employed by SMEs, and 91% of businesses are classified as SMEs, generating an average of between 52% to 57% of our annual GDP.
“This means it is critical for as many SMEs as possible to succeed, both for the sake of their own livelihood and for the sake of the nation.”
Business plan vital to success
A well thought out business plan is a critical starting point for any business.
“We’ve had a very positive response to the English version of our ‘Creating a Business Plan’ e-book, with more than 30 000 downloads in just four years. With a Zulu edition we now have the opportunity to reach a wider audience.
“The e-book provides a step-by-step guide for users to develop an effective business plan, starting with ‘planning to plan’ and ending with ‘the big picture’ for your business.
“Though Sanlam generally focuses on businesses with an annual turnover in excess of R1 million, we have a strong commitment to grass roots entrepreneurship in South Africa,” says Nhlangwana.
Where to find it
The e-book can be downloaded for free at http://www.sanlam.co.za/businessplanbook.