Zambian entrepreneur Lupenga Chisala has highlighted the sacrifices and personal commitment required to build a successful business, saying entrepreneurship has significantly changed his lifestyle.
Chisala, who left his employment with SGS in 2017 after eight years as a chemist, has since built a diversified business portfolio spanning mechanical engineering, agrochemicals, environmental chemicals and the meat industry.
His entrepreneurial journey began with the establishment of a mechanical engineering company that provides services to mining companies in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province and the southern Democratic Republic of Congo.
According to Chisala, Zambia’s mineral resources presented significant opportunities for business, while the desire for greater financial independence also influenced his decision to leave formal employment.
In 2019, he expanded his business interests by acquiring Vinco Limited, a company involved in agro and environmental chemicals, including herbicides, insecticides and industrial chemicals.
Chisala, however, says building businesses in Zambia and across Africa comes with major challenges, particularly access to capital.
He revealed that he started his first business without capital, making it difficult to secure financing for projects that required substantial upfront funding.
The COVID-19 pandemic further tested his entrepreneurial strategy and forced him to explore other opportunities. This led him into the meat business, where he established a butchery that later expanded to two outlets.
Despite building businesses across different sectors, Chisala says entrepreneurship has come with significant personal sacrifices.
He noted that running multiple businesses requires considerable time and commitment, leaving little room for the social life he enjoyed before becoming an entrepreneur.
Chisala believes perseverance and maintaining a positive mental attitude have been crucial to navigating the challenges associated with entrepreneurship.
He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs not to give up when they encounter difficulties, stressing that setbacks are an inevitable part of the business journey.
For Chisala, the willingness to persevere through difficult periods remains essential for anyone seeking to build a sustainable business.
His experience demonstrates how entrepreneurs can adapt to changing circumstances, diversify their investments and continue pursuing opportunities despite financial and operational challenges.
