In a recent statement by Diana Ninsiima Kibuuka, the National Director of BNI Uganda, Business Network International (BNI) Uganda members have successfully generated more than $23 billion through business referrals among themselves in the past year.
BNI is an organization that brings together business owners with the primary goal of aiding in the growth of their businesses through a highly structured, professional, and positive referral marketing system based on word-of-mouth.
Speaking at the BNI East Africa Conference held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Ninsiima revealed that Uganda’s BNI chapter comprises 231 members who convene on a weekly basis. Globally, over the past year, BNI members from 79 countries facilitated business transactions worth $22.6 billion (equivalent to about Shs 75 trillion).
She emphasized that to thrive in business, it is crucial for each business owner to articulate their specific needs, whether domestically or internationally, considering trade barriers and policies that govern cross-border commerce.
Ninsiima pointed out the advantage of BNI, highlighting their rigorous vetting process that ensures a pool of credible and proven business owners. Connecting with these leaders enables entrepreneurs to access their desired markets.
Mulali Srinivasan, the keynote speaker, noted that BNI has been operating successfully for 38 years. Starting in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, the organization has progressively expanded worldwide.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, BNI remained steadfast, providing essential support to business owners globally, enabling them to continue their operations even as the world faced unprecedented challenges.
Srinivasan emphasized that BNI membership entails only nominal membership fees without additional costs. Members benefit from attending weekly chapter meetings, which offer networking opportunities, as well as participation in conferences.
Elizaphan Muraguri, the National Director of BNI Kenya, explained that BNI membership is for individuals who have exhausted various marketing tools without success. Positivity, effort, and a willingness to collaborate are essential qualities for prospective BNI members. BNI fosters a community of people dedicated to mutually building each other’s businesses.
