BongoHive has partnered with the International Trade Centre (ITC) to spearhead a critical training and capacity-building programme for entry-level online sellers. This partnership highlights BongoHive Consult’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship by equipping Zambian businesses with the tools necessary to succeed in an increasingly digital economy.

The programme, which ran from the 2nd of September through October 2024, provides comprehensive training to over 100 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The objective is to empower entrepreneurs with the digital skills required to navigate Zambia’s rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape.

The Entrepreneurship Department played a central role in delivering the programme, developing tailored solutions to address the unique challenges faced by early-stage online sellers. The training covered critical areas such as setting up an online business, managing a digital presence, content creation, and revenue generation. Participants benefitted from a combination of in-person and virtual sessions, ensuring practical guidance while offering flexibility for remote engagement.

Misozi Chisenga, Project Coordinator at BongoHive Consult, reflected on the importance of the collaboration: “Partnering with ITC on this initiative was an exciting opportunity. Our expertise in digital literacy, e-commerce, and entrepreneurship aligned perfectly with the programme’s goals. Through this training, we empowered local entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the online marketplace.”

As Zambia experiences a surge in digital adoption, this training arrived at a pivotal moment. With over 80% of the population digitally connected, SMEs had the chance to expand their reach and explore new markets. However, many entrepreneurs were still in the early stages of understanding how to leverage technology for business growth. BongoHive Consult’s Entrepreneurship Department played a crucial role in addressing these challenges by providing Zambian businesses with the tools and support required to succeed in e-commerce.

“Our mission was to foster a supportive ecosystem where Zambian entrepreneurs could thrive,” Chisenga added. “Collaborating with ITC wasn’t just about delivering training; it was about laying the groundwork for long-term digital inclusion and economic growth in Zambia.”

Participants who completed at least 80% of the training activities received certificates, further enhancing their professional credentials and market competitiveness.

As the programme concludes, BongoHive Consult remains dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of Zambian SMEs, ensuring they are well-equipped to succeed in today’s fast-evolving digital environment.