I had just quit my job in 2017, and I needed to survive, and jobs weren’t coming in like that.
I had skills: I could type, edit, handle printing, and train people on computer basics—so I said, “Why not try?” That’s how the business started in 2018 - seven years ago, thinking it was a means to an end, not knowing it was kind of the main thing.

One of the biggest challenges is doing everything by yourself. You’re the face, the engine, and the fuel.
Some days, you’re fired up; other days, you’re wondering if this hustle is worth it. Some days you just want to sleep out of discouragement. But then you remember why you started, and you keep pushing.

In a 9–5, you have structure, you know when to close. As an entrepreneur, everything is on you; if you slack, nobody carries the load.
Now, I write down tasks, organize things by type, and try to separate “urgent” from “important.” I’m learning to work smart and not just be busy. Because as an entrepreneur, if you’re not careful, 24 hours will go and you won’t even know where it went.
I cut out excess spending, I review my services and focus on the ones that still bring income or have long-term value.
During quiet periods, I lean into training programs, like affordable computer classes. They help me stay visible and relevant.

Staying afloat during slumps
I also try to think like a customer. “What do people need right now?” If zobo is selling more than printing, I face zobo. Simple. You adjust, or you sink.
First of all, I pray. I carry God along, because this journey is not for the faint-hearted. Then I try not to panic. I’ve trained my mind to focus on what I can control.
I also write and reflect a lot. It helps me reflect and release stress. And I talk to people; other small business owners, friends, even clients. Sometimes, one conversation, even the most casual ones, gives you an idea you hadn’t thought of before.
Perks of being Boss
I won’t lie, freedom is top of the list. I’m not caged in. If I want to try something new, I do it. I get to build my own structure, take risks, and see the results firsthand.

Another thing I love is the impact. I’ve trained young people who had never touched a computer before. You need to feel the satisfaction of helping someone grow. I’ve helped schools manage their exams. That kind of fulfilment? It’s priceless.
And yes, unexpected opportunities have come too: collaborations, consultation, recognition, referrals. Things I didn’t even plan for.
Start small. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Use what you have, where you are. Don't follow the trend. Do you.
Also, learn. Watch free tutorials, read, attend business events—even if they’re online. Understand how money works. Learn how to market yourself without sounding desperate.

And mindset is key. You need grit. Things won’t always go smoothly, but if you stay consistent, it will pay off.
Also, surround yourself with people who get it. The journey is easier with community. One more thing; set boundaries. You will need it.
Navigating Nigeria’s business climate
Nigeria will humble you, but it will also teach you sense. Electricity issues, internet wahala, rising costs- you learn to adapt fast.

I try to offer services that don’t depend heavily on electricity; even if it's the smallest of the services I offer. I also try to make my prices flexible, especially for students, startups and schools.
I pay attention to customer feedback and stay flexible. Sometimes it’s not about being the best in the market; it’s about being the most dependable, the problem solver.

My goal- Whether I’m running my own thing or joining a team, I bring the same mindset: solve problems, add value, and leave people better than I met them. That’s my blueprint, that's my mantra.

The South African government is incorporating biometric verification as part of efforts to control the numbers of undocumented people.
The country’s Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber, has launched what it calls Operation New Broom, which will “arrest, convict and deport illegal immigrants occupying public spaces,” according to the announcement.

The first operation in what will be an ongoing campaign has already taken place, with 25 “suspects” arrested in District 6 in Cape Town with these individuals “occupying” land meant for restitution to the victims of forced removals, according to a statement issued by the Ministry.
Operation New Broom uses biometrics to verify the immigration status of those detained. The ministry claims this eliminates the risk of fraudulent documents and builds stronger legal cases. Schreiber commented: “The benefits of our commitment to digital transformation are being felt across all areas of Home Affairs’ mandate, including through the strides made by the Border Management Authority at the borders and by Home Affairs inland.”
A fully digital Home Affairs department is a central point in the implementation of an effective digital government strategy in South Africa, which Schreiber outlined in a digital transformation presentation late last year.
Home Affairs officials conducting arrests say that biometric checks, including fingerprint and face scans, will be used on-site during raids, according to reporting by IOL. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) say similar operations will be carried out in Johannesburg, Dalton and other major metropolitan areas in the coming weeks.

The Public Servants Association (PSA) has sounded a warning over the issue of privacy and data security in the implementation of biometric verification used by the DHA.
In a statement, the association said it is essential to ensure robust data-protection measures are in place to safeguard personal information, and that the success of Operation New Broom depends on adequate funding and resources. It drew attention particularly to “adequate human capital” and noted staff shortages at the DHA.

In March, the DHA announced a “comprehensive upgrade” to the system central to the country’s national security architecture. This system facilitates face and fingerprint biometric verification for people seeking services ranging from the National Treasury to the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), and institutions in the financial sector.
Authorities said the upgrade means that such biometric verification will now be faster, more secure and accurate as tests conducted by the DHA showed an error rate of well below one percent.
As part of measures to maintain the upgraded system, Schreiber directed a readjustment of fees for some users of the verification platform. Private sector companies using the Home Affairs’ digital verification service will have seen an increase in fees, the first in over a decade, since April 1. Public sector users shouldn’t have seen any change.

For international students, South Africa is becoming a favourite destination to study. With affordable education courses and presence of some of the top universities in the world.

South Africa is an amazing country for exploration and career making. Most people who visit the country for educational purposes want to complete their postgraduate and undergraduate degrees.
If you don’t have a local passport, you will need a visa for South Africa so that you will be eligible to come to the country to study. You want to apply for a South African student visa. If you don't know about this requirement, we will guide you in this article about everything you need to know.

Do you need a student visa for South Africa?
If you are not from South Africa and want to complete a degree in the country, you will need to apply for a South African visa to travel.
However, you won’t be able to live permanently or on a long-term with visa-free travel,(as it lasts typically between 1-3 months) and can be used for the purpose of tourism.

South African Visa options for International Students
Visa options should be checked by all the international students who want to study in South Africa, which could apply to specific situations and nationalities in advance before they travel.

If you want to complete a longer than three months course or complete a university degree in South Africa, you will need to apply for a student visa. It is not the case for some, but most of the students will need a student visa.
“Most educational institutions and South African universities can also help or direct prospective international students to the required offices”.
Studying in South Africa on a Tourist Visa
A short course can be attended with a South Africa tourist visa, which is a short-term permit. An example would be a person who is learning English while exploring South Africa.

You should remember that you can only use the tourist visa for tourism purposes. If you are travelling to the country mainly for taking part in a course, you will no longer be eligible for a tourist visa.
“It is strongly recommended that all international students contact any nearby South African consulate or embassy before making any travel arrangements”.
Citizens of some countries can also visit the country without a visa for tourism and will be able to take part in a short course.

South African exchange visas for Foreign Students
If young visitors wish to participate in an economic, cultural, or social programme in the country, they can do so with an exchange visa, which includes school and university programmes.

Validity of exchange permits is the duration of the programme, and cannot exceed more than 12 months, and cannot be renewed or extended.
The exchange visa is only for foreigners who are not older than 25 years of age who can participate in an organized program by an institution in the country.
• A filled application form of an exchange visa
• pay the fees of visa application
• Validity of an eligible passport with a minimum of 30 days after the actual departure date from South Africa
• A financial means proof, medical insurance proof, radiology and medical reports, and vaccination certificate (if needed).
• Information regarding the programme and institution organizing it, along with an invitation letter.
• A foreign educational institutional letter who is participating in the programme.
• A clearance certificate from the police from the countries where the applicant, since the age of 18, resided for 12 or more months.
• Other supporting documents

How to get a Student Visa for South Africa?
Most of the international students will need to get a visa for the purpose of the study. To attend their specific course(s) in the country, read on how you can get the visa.

Where to Apply for a South Africa Student visa?
In most cases you should need to submit the application to the South African consulate or embassy in person. The immigration authorities can be contacted if you are already living in South Africa.
Please note: “The diplomatic missions of South Africa abroad will only provide you with services regarding visa application upon appointment”.

South Africa Student Permit Requirements
Applicants older than 18 need to provide these, to submit the application form successfully
• Accurate information is provided in all parts of an application form.
• Fees of visa processing .
• You need a valid Passport, which has the validity of a minimum of 30 days after the actual departure date from South Africa.
• Information regarding travel such as address(es) and itinerary where the applicant will reside in the country.
• Proof that the applicant can afford the institutional costs in the country.
• If a third party takes responsibility for all the costs for the international students, then provide their ID copies.
• Relevant medical records, vaccination certificates and radiology reports (if needed).
• Clearance certificates from the police (where applicable).
• An educational institution’s official letter confirming that they have offered the traveller a place to study.
• Other supporting documents.

A passport with at least 2 labelled visa blank pages presented at the consulate or embassy for the permit application.
If the Student is minor, then these documents are required:
• A notarized consent letter from guardian/parent.
• Birth certificate.
• Where applicable, legal/adoption guardianship certified copies.
• Information regarding the address of the person who will be the legal guardian of the traveller/student in South Africa.

How long is a South Africa student visa valid?
The duration of the study permit is the entire duration of the course or degree. For secondary schools, the duration is up to six years, while for primary schools, the duration is up to eight years.
(It could take 3-4 weeks in processing for visas exceeding 90 days).

Can you Work on a South Africa study permit?
You should apply for a proper work visa, if you are interested in working in the country. The study permit is only for studying in South Africa. However, students on a student visa can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week.

Why Should you study in South Africa?
Internationally famous universities are available in South Africa, such as “the University of Stellenbosch and Witwatersrand and Cape Town”. These are the top 3 African universities.
“You will be able to live in an extraordinary and unique country by moving here, with famous multicultural urban centres and natural attractions.”

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Renowned businessman Paul Harris said people who want to leave South Africa for good because they think there is no future in the country should think again.
Harris is widely celebrated as one of South Africa’s great entrepreneurs, behind some of the country’s most successful businesses.
These include Rand Consolidated Investments, Rand Merchant Bank, and FirstRand. He also helped to establish the Ingwelala, Mabula, Welgevonden, and Thorny Bush game reserves.

Harris shared his thoughts about South Africa and emigration during an interview with The Relocated South African podcast, hosted by Jan Hugo.
This interview took place amidst serious challenges in South Africa, which prompted many people to consider leaving the country and moving overseas.
The United Nations’ International Migrant Stock report showed a steady outflow of skilled South Africans over the last thirty years.
The UN’s data shows that in 1990, approximately 295,400 South Africans were living internationally. By 2000, it reached 495,000, and by 2010, it rose to 705,000.

In 2020, 900,000 South Africans lived abroad, and this number surpassed 1 million in 2024. This translates to an average of 74 people leaving every day between 2020 and 2024.
It has reached such concerning levels that the Allianz Risk Barometer for 2025 showed that the shortage of skilled workers has become one of South Africa’s biggest risks.

Despite South Africa’s challenges and the increasing popularity of emigration, Harris advised people to think carefully before making such a decision.
He is well-positioned to discuss this topic as he previously left South Africa but decided to return and make it his home.
“I emigrated. Whatever way you look at it, it takes five years out of your life. Before you go, it is all you think and talk about,” he said.
“When you arrive in the new country, it is a struggle to find where you should live, who you are going to make friends with, and what home you can buy.”

People who emigrate typically maintain strong connections with those at home, and they continue to visit South Africa on holidays.
He advised people to avoid obsessing about emigrating and instead make the most of their lives in South Africa. However, that does not mean working overseas is not advised.

“Going out and getting a more worldly view is important and fantastic. Your people who want to work overseas, go for it,” he said.
“However, if you are leaving South Africa for good because you do not think there is a future here, you should think again.”

South Africa is a great country with excellent opportunities
Harris said that despite the country’s serious problems, it is one of the greatest countries to live in, offering immense opportunities.
He highlighted that South Africa faced numerous challenges in the past, including the Boer War, World Wars, Apartheid, and the transition to democracy.
Despite all these difficult times, the country survived. He added that South Africa faced much bigger challenges in the past than it does now.
He argued that South Africans are resourceful and aspirational and have solved many of the challenges associated with living in South Africa.

This includes private security to protect against crime, private education, and private healthcare to bypass poor state hospitals.
He admitted that these options are not available to all South Africans and that you need to be wealthy to benefit from them.
However, if you are in this position, the country offers excellent opportunities and gives you the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives.
He gave the example of his daughter, who runs a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that helps young children learn to read.
“She helps 220,000 kids to read. Her network includes 20,000 computers in schools across South Africa, and employs 800 people,” he said.

He said experiencing the excitement of the kids in the townships working on the computers leaves everyone with a tear in their eyes.
“South Africa offers you the opportunity to contribute. It is off a very low base, which means a small thing can make a difference,” he said.
“There is nothing that can replace that for me. An environment where you can make a huge difference.”

He said many South Africans sit around and complain about the country and its problems. “Forget about that. Get on with it and go and do something,” he said.
“I am not saying for one moment that there are not massive frustrations. However, that is part of the path to achieve something.”

Porters roam the narrow streets of Laleli in central Istanbul carrying parcels ready for shipment to customers all over the world.
The maze of alleys that lead down to the Sea of Marmara have long been the centre of the "suitcase trade" to sub-Saharan Africa, a route through which merchants carry goods back and forth in their baggage.
But Laleli's informal shipping scene, once a bustling hub of cross-continental trade, is now facing growing pressure from rising costs and tougher residency rules imposed by Turkish authorities.

African traders, who helped drive demand for Turkish goods through the "kargo" system -- small-scale shipping services between Turkish wholesalers and buyers across Africa - say business has slumped, even as official export figures continue to rise.
While some still make round trips, most trade now moves through shipping services.
For agents like Fadil Bayero -- a Cameroonian who runs a kargo business that ships clothing, cosmetics and home textiles from Turkey to clients across Africa -- business is slow.

Turkish products have a very good reputation in Africa, he said.
"Before this room was filled to the ceiling. Today it is half-empty," the 39-year-old said.
Like many Africans in the neighbourhood, he claimed that shipments have dropped, even as Turkish exports to Africa have generally soared -- from $11.5 billion (R207 billion) in 2017 to $19.4 billion last year.
Turkish textiles, once known for their affordability, have grown more expensive in recent years.
Merchants say inflation -- above 35 percent since late 2021 -- has pushed African buyers toward cheaper suppliers in China and Egypt.

But for Bayero, the explanation lies elsewhere.

"It's not inflation that's the problem, it's the arrests. Many people have been deported," he said.
Since 2022, Turkey's migration policy has toughened, with the authorities blocking new residence permit applications in several districts of Istanbul, including Fatih, where Laleli is located.

The goal is to limit the proportion of foreigners to 20 percent per neighbourhood.
"The stores, the streets, everything is empty now," said Franck, one of Bayero's colleagues.
"Look out the window -- the sellers sit all day drinking tea while waiting for customers."

A few streets away, Shamsu Abdullahi examined his spreadsheets.

In his dimly lit room, dozens of bundles are stacked on the white tiled floor, awaiting shipment.
Since January, he and his two colleagues have shipped over 20 tons of goods by air freight and filled the equivalent of 15 maritime containers.
The Nigerian has also made around 15 round trips to his homeland, bringing 80 kilos (176 pounds) of goods with him on each journey.
"My residence permit expires in two months, and I think the authorities won't renew it," he said.
He and his associates generate over a million euros a year in revenue.

"It's money spent in Turkey that fuels the local economy," he said.

Historian Issouf Binate, a lecturer at Alassane Ouattara University in the Ivory Coast, said much of the trade is informal, making it hard to track.
"It's difficult to provide figures on the volume of Turkey's exports to Africa because many businesses are informal," he said.
"Kargos" are "transitional businesses", with improvised activity shared between friends or family members.
Many in Laleli now believe that the golden age of the "kargo" and suitcase trading is over.
"In one year we went from about three tons of shipments per week to 1.5," said a young Congolese who has lived in Istanbul for five years and asked not to be named.

"Even if we still manage to find low-cost products, we cannot compete with China," he added.
Arslan Arslan, a Turkish merchant who sells African dresses a few metres (yards) away, painted the same picture.
"Before, I had customers from morning to evening... but the authorities sent them back."
Now Arslan searches for his African customers on social media.
"I'm on Telegram, Instagram, Facebook. But here, everything has become expensive," he said.
"I've lost 70 percent of my revenue in a year."