Employee Mentality: A Barrier to African Development

Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga

The Limitations of Traditional Education

The traditional education system in Africa often prioritizes preparing students for employment, focusing on skills suited for corporate careers. However, this approach may only provide short-term sustenance, rather than creating a lasting impact that spans generations. Innovation and creativity, on the other hand, can drive economic growth and development, enabling ownership and legacy to transcend generations.

Inter-Generational Disconnection

The economic disconnection between African generations forces each to start anew, often hindered by recurring conflicts. This makes reliance on individual effort a necessity, rather than a choice. In contrast, a harmonized system coupled by ownership of economic means will allow knowledge, resources, and legacy to flow between generations could provide a more sustainable foundation for growth and development. Employment is an impassable legacy.

The Limitations of Employment

Being an employee often means following orders and executing tasks assigned by others, potentially stifling creative minds. While employment provides stability, it may not foster the entrepreneurial spirit and risk-taking necessary for innovation and economic progress.

The Power of Production

Production and entrepreneurship can significantly impact the economy:

1. Job Creation: Producers can employ people, including investors, to promote and distribute products. Usually local people are employed and they are motivated into entrepreneurship too.

2. Economic Growth: Sales revenue can stimulate local economic growth, boosting the economy through a multiplier effect.

3. Trade Control: Producers have more control over trade and distribution, enabling them to negotiate with governments and international organizations. A strong product will determine where it needs to put plants of production.

4. Local Economic Development: Local production contributes to community growth and development.

Unlocking African Potential

By promoting innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, Africa can unlock its potential for economic growth and development. A shift in mind-set, from employment to production and entrepreneurship, is necessary to achieve this goal. The circle of poverty will be cut.

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In loving memory of Mrs. Josephine Machuma (Nee Matongo)

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