In Juba, the capital of South Sudan, Amaka Scovia’s fruit and juice business is thriving today on a bustling city street, though just three years ago, things looked bleak. Her shop, limited to a small rented space that could hold only ten people, seemed stagnant. The lack of space and resources made growth difficult and the future of her business uncertain. However, amid these challenges, Scovia’s patience and her willingness to wait for a transformative opportunity were crucial in keeping her dream alive.
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Scovia, now 27, persevered despite the obstacles. She knew she needed to improve her circumstances to grow, but she recognized that achieving this would require patience, careful decision-making, and hope during uncertain times. When the boost finally arrived in the form of an interest-free loan from the Youth Entrepreneurship and Capacity Development Project, funded by the African Development Bank’s Multi-Donor Trust Fund, Scovia was ready. Her patience and preparation enabled her to receive the support and make the most of the business training workshops offered by the program.
This $6,000 loan and the training in budgeting, planning, and financial management helped Scovia expand her business and renovate her shop. She describes how, in her most challenging days, patience and confidence in her abilities helped her stay resilient. “When I started, the space was small, and I barely had capital. It was a slow process, but patience kept me going until I found the necessary support,” says Scovia. Today, her business has space for three times as many customers and employs six people who assist with operations and the distribution of fresh juices across the city.
Scovia’s story is a testament to the strength that comes from knowing how to wait. Unlike other entrepreneurs who may have given up due to lack of capital, Scovia’s patience allowed her to seize opportunities when they arrived. Martha Phiri from the African Development Bank highlights the importance of resilient young entrepreneurs like Scovia in South Sudan, who, through their businesses, help drive the country’s economy and strengthen food security.
Today, Scovia plans to expand further, dreaming of opening new branches and, in the future, establishing a juice processing plant. Her patience and perseverance inspire other young entrepreneurs facing similar difficulties. “Empowerment comes from within, and entrepreneurship is a path to self-sufficiency and prosperity,” she affirms. Her story serves as a reminder that, sometimes, patience is the essential ingredient for success, especially in environments where resources are scarce, and progress may take time to materialize.
