Document Type
Report
Publication Date
2007
Abstract
I came into my internship with a special interest in examining the business aspect of Tukwamuane’s efforts, specifically, to look at the group’s business model and see where it could be improved. It became clear to me early on during my time in Mwanza, however, that there were far too many gaps to fill before the group would have a workable business model to consider improving. The biggest challenge that Takamine faces is that they are currently not able to turn a daily profit. As a result, they remain reliant on funds coming in from Western Heads East in Canada to pay their monthly bills and cover unforeseen running costs. This is a major issue as it prevents any move towards sustainability and subsequently hinders the group’s sense of ownership of the project, as they are constantly being ‘bailed out’ of tough situations by the Canadians. I was able to identify the financial disparities in a balance sheet that outlines Tukwamuane’s daily running costs (including recommended compensation for NIMR staff and equipment) and an estimation of their current revenue. Currently, the mamas need to make an additional 60,000 Tosh a day just to break even. This is a challenge that can be overcome, but it will require major changes to be made. I imagine that the project will look radically different at the point in time when the mamas are able to make money on their own, without Canadian support