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Why Sage Offers Cheapest Software to Entrepreneurs In W/Africa- Nmonwu

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Magnus Nmonwu, regional director for Sage West Africa, has reiterated the Company’s resolve to give ‘voice’ to entrepreneurs in West Africa through its robust accounting software.
He made the remark during an interview with Nigeria CommunicationsWeek  in Lagos recently, adding that Sage’s decision to offer its software at a rate as low as N4000 was aimed at assisting entrepreneurs in the West African market leverage opportunities in their environment.
Nmonwu, with more than 14 years’ experience in consulting for Multinational and National companies in the areas of Taxation, Payroll Administration and Business Compliance, presently focuses on business and sales development related activities; supporting the SSB, SMB and Enterprise team with a view to increase new customers acquisition in the region.
Before joining Sage, Nmonwu was the Unit Head of the IES, PAYE and Payroll Outsourcing group at KPMG Professional Services in Nigeria.
In this interview with Peter Oluka, he explained how Sage’s software can assist Entrepreneurs in the West African market leverage opportunities in their environment. Except.

As A Nigerian Leading Sage West Africa
I really don’t look at it as different. I worked at KPMG for 13 years. There, I also rose to the top having joined at the entry level.
So, working at Sage is a more or less continuing my carrier like in KPMG but in a bigger platform; so, I have a lot of responsibilities now. For the fact that I have so many people to report to in-country makes it a lot more interesting.
I tend to be accountable at all times in all my actions and decision-making processes. Therefore, it is an exciting opportunity to be part of the team leading the voice of entrepreneurs in this region.

How Sage Views Nigeria’s Business Climate in Period of Recession
The reality with recession in the country is that most organizations are looking to creating efficiencies in their systems. No business wants to close shop, all of a sudden.
That idea to entrench efficiency in the system comes with the opportunity to infuse certain solutions that can help create visibilities for the decision makers; enabling them to have information to make crucial business decisions even on the go.
For us at the Sage, I wouldn’t say we are not been hit by the recession, because we spend in the same market like every other person in the country.
But, in terms of Sage business, it has been as usual. Companies are still acquiring our software to ensure they can operator more efficient. They need those business tools to guide them and Sage is here to provide them with such solutions.

Sage’s Presence in Nigeria
Our team is recruited from the ‘local’ market. By virtue of our culture in Sage, anywhere our office is located we tend to recruit the nationals.
Our office in East Africa is led by a Kenyan. On how we leverage the environment, we also tend to get involved with events happening in our immediate environs.
Recently, we joined the Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industries (LCCI) technology forum. We publish informative and educating articles via the news media; we continue to contribute our thought leadership into the activities of businesses in our areas.
This cuts across areas we operate. We are also identifying individuals whom we, after training them, ‘push’ them to businesses to succeed. We have about three business partners who have adopted the skilled manpower we produce.

Areas of Focus in 2017
Cloud is one, because we found out some companies lack the financial capacity to get into an IT environment which requires servers, a team of IT personnel to help them drive the infrastructure. Cloud affords small businesses the opportunity to run IT management tool seamlessly.
With Sage cloud solutions they will remain update, or do not have to fear about legislations that necessitate change.
So, one of the things we are doing in terms of innovation is that we are working on software for account, but not necessarily for accountants only.
Like the Sage X3 you do necessarily need to have prerequisite training to use it. The user interface and the language are in simplified form. The flow chat allows easier navigation.

How Sage Reaches Out to SMEs, Others
Sage is actually doing a lot in the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) space. Sage is the market leader for integrated accounting, payroll and HR systems. Our heritage points to the fact Sage started as a small business too.
The couple started the business way back in Newcastle and it has transcended to having 14,000 employees operating in 23 countries.
We believe strongly that small business power world leading economies and there is no effort that any government puts with regards process, infrastructure or skill acquisition that is a waste. Sage has a solution meant for SMEs segment in the market.
It is the cheapest account solution anywhere in the world. In Nigeria it sells for as low as N4000. In the recent ICAN conference in Abuja (Nigeria), where over 4000 chartered accountants converged, the event was co-sponsored by Sage while Sage One accounting was the solution pitched at the event. You don’t need to be an accountant or requiring any IT infrastructure to use it; all you need is a device and connectivity.
Secondly, I do not agree that the only challenge of businesses is Finance. Finance is key, but that is not the basic.
There are certain businesses doing very well today, but started without much financing. The major problem with businesses is knowledge; in the sense that some SMEs do not even know how many people owe them and vice versa.

Building Smart Business Environment
I have been to Fidelity Bank’s SME programme and other relevant platforms, and the focus has been: the opportunities are out there, our people perish for lack of knowledge.
That is a Biblical quotation that translates to business environment today. If you know there is software you need to empower your business and enforce efficiency, why not go for it. So people waste man-hours, energy and resources on simply things that technology can easily do for you.
How can you pitch for a business in Badagry and your office is in Victoria Island; you want to commute to VI to process the documents, make order and deliver. Sage is saying ‘save your strength’.
With Sage smart technology in your palms, right from the entry to enterprise level solution you do not need to be at the office to use them. As long as you have internet, you can sit at Badagry there, place the order, check your inventory level, and even initiate delivery of the product, raise the invoice and print it.
You close the deal and pursue other ones on your way back to Victoria Island. So, we create opportunities for customers and businesses to do what they know how to do best. So, Sage tries to be the core solution to make businesses successful.
Our entry level solution is web-based and easy to use. Recently, we partnered with a bank to reach out to SMEs in Alaba Int’l market, (Lagos), Enugu and several other places; the aim has been the introduction of software to businesses.
Also in Ghana, we have written article concerning the elections, advising that whoever takes over should have two things.
Create policies and enabling environment to spur up businesses in Ghana. Secondly, the Government needs solutions to ensure accountability in State affairs.          

Pirated Software and the Risks Involved
The reality is that in our environment we can’t completely eradicate software piracy. But, what we are hoping to achieve that we should be able to minimize it.
When people use software that is not authorized chances are your system can easily be hacked leading to data loss.
Even when there are changes in legislation you do not get the necessary update. Also, if you have problem today that requires legal intervention, you wouldn’t know who to sue.
Nigerians travel a lot and when they buy over the shelve software, bringing it into the country, they certainly operate for a while, but they are not meant for this environment. Our software is uniquely designed for Nigerian users; tailored for the environment.

Advice to Entrepreneurs
They should get their hands bus; do not disperse the little beginning. They can get self employment or sign up for internship programmee, hopefully for the first couple of months without pay.
But, we are assuming that when you do get in there and add value you will certainly be admitted. There are some government programmes out there to leverage on.
The reality is that at some point in everybody’s carrier, people tilt towards entrepreneurship. Those who have ideas can work meet those with necessary infrastructure as to raise funds.
Partnership is key too in setting up something. They can leverage our internship programme too where 45 people benefited this year. We are supporting them, but my comment is do not disperse the little beginning.    

 


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Dufil Takes Donation of Indomie Noodles Cartons to Vulnerable Communities in Abuja and Environ

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In line with its commitment to provide critical support to indigent members of communities around the country in the face of the ongoing economic challenges, Dufil Prima Foods Limited, makers of Indomie Instant Noodles, in partnership with Golan Helps Abuja Food Bank Initiative (GHAFBI) and Meluibe Foundation on Wednesday, April 17 distributed Indomie noodles cartons to vulnerable communities in Kuje and Kubwa Local Government Areas in Abuja.

With the goal of alleviating hunger and supporting communities across Nigeria, Indomie Instant Noodles has committed to donating a substantial quantity of noodle packs to various NGOs working tirelessly to address food insecurity.

These organizations play a crucial role in reaching remote and underserved areas, ensuring that nutritious meals reach those who need them most.

“We are deeply committed to making a positive impact in the communities where we operate,” said Olusola Olayinka Idowu OON, former Permanent Secretary, Budget and National Planning, and the CEO/Founder of GHAFBI.

“At GHAFBI, we believe that everyone deserves access to wholesome and nourishing food. Our partnership with Dufil Prima Foods to donate Indomie Noodles packs is a big step towards addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable communities in Abuja”, said Idowu who was also the former National Conveyor, UN Food System Dialogues in Nigeria.

Speaking in the same vein, Obialunanma Nnaobi-Ayodele, Executive Director, The Meluibe Empowerment Foundation, expressed her gratitude to Indomie Noodles for the partnership. “Our vision as an NGO is to change the world one step at a time, by providing relief and support to vulnerable communities.

This is achieved through collaborations and partnerships, one of which is what we have done with Indomie Noodles. We remain grateful for their support through this food relief initiative”, she said.

By partnering with NGOs, Indomie Instant Noodles works closely with local leaders and community heads in directly engaging with rural communities to distribute noodle packs and provide immediate relief to families facing hunger and ensuring that food assistance reaches those who are most in need, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with NGOs and community leaders to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people facing food insecurity”, said Temitope Ashiwaju, Group Corporate Communications and Events Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Limited. “Together, we bring hope, love and relief for all”.

The community leaders and some of the beneficiaries also expressed their immense gratitude to Indomie for the support, stressing the impact the products donated will have in alleviating hunger in their communities.

Speaking at the outreach centre, His Royal Highness, Muhammed D. Jibril, Community Leader of Gbazango Community in Kubwa Local Government Area said: “I am very grateful to Indomie Noodles for coming to our aid in these challenging times. I pray for more expansion and growth for the business and may God bless Indomie Noodles”.

Other communities who benefited from the product donations include Wunmi, Tondo, Godoji and Shazhi communities in Kuje Area Council of Abuja.

Dufil Prima Food’s donation of Indomie Noodle packs underscores its commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to supporting communities in need. By providing essential food relief, Dufil Prima Foods is contributing to the well-being and resilience of vulnerable populations in Nigeria.

Indomie Instant Noodles remains dedicated to bringing joy to mealtimes and making a positive impact in communities around the world.


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Empowering Nigerian Retail: The Promise of Pay on Delivery

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E-commerce in Nigeria has evolved exponentially in recent years, transforming the retail landscape and reshaping consumer habits. From the early days of skepticism and distrust to today’s thriving online marketplaces, the journey has been marked by innovation, adaptation, and perhaps most importantly, the establishment of trust and security between buyers and sellers. At the core of this transformation, Pay on Delivery (PoD) has emerged as the unsung hero of e-commerce.

The premise is straightforward: customers could place orders online and pay for their purchases only upon receipt. This innovative approach not only addressed concerns about security but also provided tangible reassurance to hesitant buyers. In countries like India, Nigeria, and Indonesia, where a significant portion of the population remains unbanked or underbanked and where distrust in online transactions and fraudulent activities were once rampant, Pay on Delivery has emerged as a lifeline for both consumers and businesses. Many consumers were understandably hesitant to part with their hard-earned money before receiving their desired goods. Pay on delivery bridges this trust gap, offering reassurance to buyers and empowering them to transact with confidence.

In Nigeria, despite the adoption of a wide range of electronic payments, cash is still king. The results of a survey conducted in 2021 show that cash remains the dominant payment method, reflecting the ongoing preference for tangible transactions over digital ones. In addition, a recent report by ongoing preference for tangible transactions over digital ones. In addition, a recent report by Oxford Business Group found that 70% of Nigerians prefer to pay with cash on delivery, while 28% use credit or debit cards, and only 12% use mobile money platforms. This has challenged e-retailers, and some companies like Jumia, to adapt by prioritizing cash-on-delivery options to cater to this consumer preference.

The Promise of Pay on Delivery in Nigeria

With consumers in mind, Jumia, the leading e-commerce platform in Nigeria, has made Pay on Delivery a cornerstone of its business model. Understanding the local market dynamics and the importance of trust and convenience, the company has invested heavily in ensuring a seamless Pay on Delivery experience for its customers.

One of the key benefits of Jumia’s Pay on Delivery service is its flexibility. Customers have the option to inspect their purchases before making payment, ensuring satisfaction and reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions. This added layer of security not only enhances the overall shopping experience but also builds long-term trust and loyalty among customers.

Moreover, Jumia has implemented rigorous quality control measures to ensure that products meet customer expectations upon delivery. This includes partnering with reputable brands and implementing stringent verification processes to prevent counterfeit goods from entering the marketplace. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and product quality, Jumia has solidified its reputation as a trusted online retailer in Nigeria.

Beyond enhancing trust and security, Pay on Delivery has also played a crucial role in driving financial inclusion in Nigeria. By providing an alternative payment method for those without access to traditional banking services, Jumia has expanded the reach of e-commerce to a broader segment of the population. This not only benefits consumers by providing greater access to goods and services but also stimulates economic growth by fostering entrepreneurship and driving demand for products and services.

In all, the future of e-commerce in Nigeria looks promising, with Pay on Delivery poised to remain a key enabler of growth and expansion. As technology continues to advance and consumer preferences evolve, innovative solutions like Pay on Delivery will continue to drive the transformation of the retail landscape, empowering Nigerian consumers and businesses alike.

 


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Verra Certifies d.light’s Clean Cookstove Projects in Sub-Saharan Africa

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A series of pioneering projects by d.light, the global provider of transformational household products and affordable finance for low-income households, to distribute 600,000 energy-efficient clean cookstoves in Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda have been officially certified by global verification body Verra.

This certification confirms the d.light projects as trusted, verified sources of high-quality carbon credits in the voluntary carbon markets (VCMs).

The d.light projects aim to simultaneously reduce carbon emissions, tackle indoor air pollution, and reduce deforestation through the sale of highly efficient biomass cookstoves subsidized by the revenues from the sale of carbon credits.

Since their launch in late 2022, the projects have positively impacted more than one million lives and are projected to transform more than three million lives by 2025.

Commenting on the news, Karl Skare, d.light’s Chief Product and Strategy Officer, emphasized the projects’ positive impact, “With these projects, we’re not just addressing environmental concerns but also enhancing quality of life for millions.

“Each project underscores d.light’s commitment to practical, innovative solutions that address both environmental and social challenges, as part of our mission to transform the lives of one billion people by 2030.”

Each year, domestic cooking emissions contribute more than two percent of total global GHG emissions and up to 25 percent of anthropogenic black carbon emissions.

Highly energy-efficient cookstoves solve this problem by reducing biomass use by up to 70 percent compared to traditional cooking methods, cutting emissions of both carbon dioxide and black carbon.

The d.light projects are expected to reduce emissions by up to 12 million tons, contributing to climate change mitigation. These emissions reductions will be registered as carbon credits in the voluntary carbon market.

As well as reducing emissions, clean cookstoves are also a benefit to public health. According to the World Health Organisation, exposure to smoke from cooking fires causes an estimated 3.2 million premature deaths worldwide each year and is still one of the predominant causes of pollution-related illness and death in Africa.

In Uganda, for example, less than one percent of the population has access to clean cooking, household air pollution is the one of the largest risk factors for death and disability.

In addition, switching from traditional three-stone open fires to cleaner, energy-efficient cookstoves significantly reduces deforestation and reduces threats to wildlife and biodiversity caused by habitat loss.

Skare explained, “By subsidizing energy-efficient cookstove costs through carbon financing, d.light makes clean cooking accessible to more households, which in turn leads to healthier living conditions and conserves natural resources as well.

“Our projects in Kenya, Nigeria and Uganda are models of how sustainable investments can yield multiple co-benefits, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and also promoting socio-economic development.

Skare added, “d.light now has projects certified by both Gold Standard and Verra, the world’s two leading certifiers of carbon credits. Organizations looking for ways to offset their own emissions can be confident that when they purchase carbon credits in d.light’s clean cooking projects in sub-Saharan Africa, they are investing in transformative initiatives that reduce harmful emissions, improve people’s health and quality of life, and help conserve the environment as well.”

 


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