Emmanuel expressed his aspirations to relocate to Canada or the US, citing challenges with obtaining permanent residency in South Africa despite his successful venture. In an interview with SVTV AFRICA, Emmanuel detailed his business model, stating that while some in the industry charge as low as 20 rands (KSh 160) per haircut, he prices his services between 60 (KSh 490) and 150 rands (KSh 1,220). This strategy, influenced by the location of his salon, has proven lucrative, allowing him to generate approximately 50,000 (KSh 407,000) to 60,000 rands (KSh 490,000) per month. His profit is KSh 165k monthly. However, Emmanuel emphasised that the primary challenge lies in securing permanent residency in South Africa, particularly for foreigners. He revealed that even having a child with a South African woman does not guarantee a straightforward process. Addressing concerns about safety for foreigners in South Africa, Emmanuel provided nuanced insights. He noted that safety depends on the specific location, stating that areas with a lower foreign population might experience more violence. Contrarily, he suggested that living in areas densely populated with foreigners tends to be safer. Emmanuel’s story sheds light on the complexities foreign entrepreneurs face in South Africa, balancing financial success with the challenges of immigration and safety concerns. His aspirations to move to North America reflect a broader trend among individuals seeking more favourable conditions for residency and business opportunities.
BY Muyela Roberto