Once dominated by overcrowded minibusses and shared taxis, Mozambique’s roads are witnessing a new player – a reliable, formal bus company steered by the vision of a remarkable woman named Manisha Pratapsinh. Manisha’s journey began not in bus depots but in the rough-and-tumble world of civil construction machinery.
Although residing in Madrid, Spain, the Mozambican will always have her country and people in mind. And that’s one of the best qualities about Manisha—she can identify what her fellow Mozambicans need and want to improve their way of living, especially in a modern, fast-paced world.
Witnessing firsthand the struggles of transporting equipment, especially for those without private vehicles, ignited a spark within her.
It wasn’t just a personal challenge; it reflected the broader reality of Mozambique’s limited formal transport network. A casual phone call with her partners about this gap in essential services became a catalyst for action. Armed with her entrepreneurial spirit and a deep desire to improve her country’s landscape, Manisha donned the hat of a bus company founder.
But transitioning from construction zones to bus routes wasn’t just about a change of scenery. It demanded meticulous market research, identifying areas of greatest need, and navigating the complexities of a new industry. Yet, Manisha’s unwavering determination and adaptability propelled her forward.
“One of the strategies I have used to face these challenges is to study the market and identify areas with a higher demand for this type of service,” she said.
The impact of Manisha’s bus company extends far beyond offering safe and reliable transportation. It creates jobs, injecting much-needed lifeblood into Mozambique’s economy. “All my employees are from my country,” Manisha proudly says, “My goal is to help the community. Giving back is just as important as success.” This commitment to empowering her people, especially in the face of a 25 percent unemployment rate, sets her apart.
Still, in a globally competitive and modern setting, she also learns from other people from different countries across the globe to broaden her perspective and become more efficient in running her bus company.
Manisha’s journey is also a testament to breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry. Initially hesitant to reveal her entrepreneurial ambitions due to societal expectations, she found her voice amongst a supportive network of women who encouraged her to share her talent with the world.
But Manisha’s aspirations reach beyond gender barriers. She champions that one’s origin, ethnicity, or appearance should never hinder success. Her own story, from construction sites to bus routes, is a powerful testament to the power of empowerment and equality. “This is my life philosophy,” she says, “I carry this principle into my daily life, and it helps me overcome adversity.”
Manisha Pratapsinh is not just navigating Mozambique’s roads; she is paving the way for a future where dreams have no borders, ambitions have no ceilings, and change starts from within. Her story is an inspiration, a beacon of hope for anyone who dares to dream and drive change, regardless of their background or the roadblocks they face.
As Manisha Pratapsinh continues to steer her bus company towards success, the impact on Mozambique’s economy becomes increasingly evident. Beyond the immediate benefits of improved transportation, her venture contributes significantly to job creation and economic growth. By prioritizing the employment of local citizens, she not only addresses the pressing issue of unemployment but also fosters a sense of community and solidarity within Mozambique. In a country where job opportunities are scarce, Manisha’s commitment to her people serves as a model for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Furthermore, Manisha’s innovative approach to business extends beyond national borders. By embracing lessons and insights from diverse sources across the globe, she enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of her operations. In today’s interconnected world, this openness to learning and collaboration is essential for staying competitive and adaptable. Manisha’s willingness to seek knowledge beyond her immediate surroundings underscores her dedication to continuous improvement and her vision for a thriving, globally connected Mozambique. As her bus company continues to navigate the roads of change, Manisha Pratapsinh stands as a symbol of resilience, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment in Mozambique and beyond.
Published by: Martin De Juan
