2020 has a good ring to it, doesn’t it? It’s a satisfying-looking date, and with it, there’s the implied promise of a fresh start, a positive future, or the next step in our current journey. It’s time to review our ‘2020 Visions’ and see which goals have been met, and to work towards those 2025 and 2030 milestones, both as companies and individuals.
As we embrace the new year, we spoke to many companies this month who are proof of what you can achieve if you pursue your dreams. Nico van der Meulen Architects and CREP Protect are both examples of companies started by people with a creative passion, and the dedication and work ethic to make that dream a reality. However, in some parts of the world, taking that sort of financial risk and leap of faith in ourselves may seem daunting right now. Some markets are uncertain. Yet, for all of our uncertainty, there is still so much to be amazed by in each of these countries, as well as emerging markets that are starting to come in swinging.
TWIGA Cement, the biggest cement producers in Tanzania, told us about the exciting growth of industry and investment happening not only in its country, but across many countries in Africa. Whilst some established and developed economies are plateauing or even stagnating elsewhere in the world, growing economies are providing exciting opportunities for businesses. We hear this more and more frequently from companies looking towards further global expansion, and TWIGA are enthusiastic about what this means in Tanzania and throughout the rest of the region.
As we mentioned, we also spoke with Nico van der Meulen Architects, on the other side of the construction story. Nico and his team design high-end, luxury housing and commercial buildings, and they, too, are excited about the opportunities flourishing in Africa. Based in South Africa, the architects are now finding increasing business in the DRC, Côte d’Ivoire and elsewhere in the continent, and this frontier has become their latest focus.
It’s exciting to know that even as some markets slow or struggle, others are starting to explode outwards. As the new year brings thoughts of change and fresh horizons, and as political movements in some countries have change (or the lack thereof) at the forefront of people’s minds, it’s a refreshing reminder that as some lanes slow, others speed up. Wherever we are, the important thing is to keep working, stay motivated, and do our bit to keep our economies moving. Meanwhile, if we’re able to reach further than just our local frontier, we can help others, too, by investing in these growing markets and giving them the boost they need – there might even be a fantastic opportunity to unlock in the process.
