Alinafe Mandala, a determined entrepreneur from Lilongwe’s Area 36, Kandikole, has defied odds to build a thriving soap-making business.
Mandala’s journey began after completing her MSCE exams in 2017 and studying General Fitting at Lilongwe Technical College.
Impatient of waiting for employment, she drew inspiration from self-employed women and her family members to start her own business.
“I started manufacturing soap on my own. Later I joined the Ngwazi Zophusha Forum, an empowering initiative for women, and began producing a range of products, Explained Mandala.
Her business has since achieved remarkable milestones, expanding production and distribution to local businesses and surrounding markets.
Mandala’s weekly production includes 40 litres of dishwash, 15 kg of pine gel, 3 medium cartons of tablet soap, 20 litres of car shampoo, and 10 litres of hair shampoo.
Mandala’s success has also enabled her to employ 5 permanent and several part time workers who help her in production and sales.
Mandala aims to supply her products to well-recognized stores and establish a company providing more employment opportunities.
“Starting my business was the best decision I ever made, am proud to contribute to my community’s economic growth and inspire other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams,” said Mandala.
Customers have praised Mandala’s products, confirming they meet their needs. She has established a loyal customer base as she sells her products online and distributes to local shops in Lilongwe.
“Communities love her products, when I have them in my shop they are sold as hot cakes, and it helps both of us as we also make profits from them,” said Bon Menduko, a shop owner, in Phwetekere Township in Lilongwe city.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Trade and Industry Patrick Botha has hailed Mandala’s initiative for being a self-reliant woman meanwhile creating job opportunities for the youth and her community and has urged women in the country to learn from what she is doing.
