News reports often speak of the struggle to lift Africans out of poverty. An entrepreneur is playing his part in bringing prospects to the continent through a business effort that is now bringing his products to the world market.
The desire to help others led Elmare Lombard of South Africa to abandon his successful psychological practice 15 years after starting a natural aromatherapy line.
From researching essential oils and plant-based oils in his kitchen to finally exploring international markets for the line, Lombard has made his dream a reality today. Its Molo Africa line is now being distributed in the United States by Biopharmaceuticals Inc.
But his organization, founded with family members and community leaders, helped set up farming projects for disadvantaged people in South Africa.Molo Africa has an active employment policy that helps single parents get jobs in companies or approved businesses. This initiative is designed for self-reliance and brings a sense of pride for individuals.
Molo Africa supports independent farmers in Africa through advice and assistance; Purchase of raw materials at fair market prices;And through education initiatives that help poor South Africans develop skills in agriculture, primary education, entrepreneurship and computer training.
The company's product line includes pure essential oils, natural scented room sprays, massage butters, shea soap and scented candles. Molo is an African greeting meaning "hello".Products with provocative African names such as “Hamba Suka” and “Sefako” contain essential oils extracted from farm-grown and naturally processed exotic plants in African countries.
Gertrude Mewy is an example of the kind of success story that Lombard's company has helped create. The single mother of Guguletu in Cape Town was raising her four children as low-paid domestic workers. But she dreamed she wanted to be an entrepreneur. He started his own pottery business with the help of the Foundation for Economic and Business Development.
He became a supplier of ceramic beads in Molo Africa as a result of his hard work. Its contract with Gertrude enabled her to hire two full-time workers, both single mothers. His business now supports nine people and Gertrude and Molo have more business plans in Africa.