Saïda Neghza

is why I work countless hours to ensure we continue to change the narratives. I am persistent and I don't like to put off today's work for tomorrow.

How does a typical day unfold in the life of Saida Neghza?

A typical day starts with checking the news, then a few phone calls and a visit to the headquarters of my company Soralcof. After that, I leave for the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises. I am regularly in contact with the Secretary General of Business Africa Organisation, based in Nairobi/Kenya, which I have the honor of chairing for two consecutive terms.

What triggered the creation of SARL SORALCOF and how has the process unfolded so far?

After trying my hands at packaging and marketing coffee and then importing tyres, I launched myself into the public works sector, a sector which my country was lagging behind, particularly in construction. That's how I created the Soralcof SARL, which underwent great development, particularly with the acquisition of sand and marble quarries and the investment in the purchase of trucks and other machinery.

Women entrepreneurs are on the rise! How did you get into the industry?

helps me a lot in terms of knowledge of the market and its evolution. It remains obvious that it is necessary to establish a proper watch within the company to be able to make the appropriate decisions in relation to the present situations.

As President of the CGEA, what do you see as the main objective of the association?

The CGEA is a citizen association with a trade union character advocacies towards the Government for the economic growth of the country.

TheWilayabrancheswerecreated with the sole purpose of promoting women entrepreneurs. Would you say that you have succeeded in achieving your goal?

When I arrived at the head of the CGEA in 2016, there were Wilaya officeswherewomenwerenon-existent, and it was then that I had

by Steffi Verna

Saïda Neghza is the President of the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises through Business Africa (54 countries) and Managing Director of SORALCOF Algeria Group. She is also the President of Business Africa since June 2019, and a founding member of Business Med, an organisation bringing together the employers' confederations of the 19 Mediterranean countries, which she chaired from 2017 to 2020. She has overseen the creation of offices in the Wilayas dedicated to the support and promotion of women entrepreneurs.

She is a full member of the Governing Body of the International Labour Office, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the African representation in the International Organisation of Employers (IOE). Saida's work focuses on sustainable development and promotes social dialogue, women's rights, and the right to work. She also focus on the place of women in society, children'srights,decentwork,and the creation of a healthy business climate. It mobilizes around the world to demand concrete responses from governments to the problems of African youth.

Enjoy our conversation with Saida Neghza, and follow her exciting and inspiring story as she changes the narratives while defying the odds that come with working in the field of entrepreneurship and paving the way for women entrepreneurs.

FM: We have been looking forward to this interview, tell us about Saida Neghza.

I am a mother of four children, three boys and a girl, all grown up. I’ve always had a propensity for freedom and free enterprise, that

It was a long process and a logical outcome in relation to the effort made by the country in terms of literacy, education, university training and vocational training. The female gender takes advan tageofthisevolutionandtheprog ress that the country has experi enced, to start and create their own business. It should be men tioned that the country has creat ed incentive mechanisms similar to funding through ANGEM and the former ANSEJ, currently ANADE.

The dynamics of the business are alwayschanging.Howdoyoukeep track of the different factors that constantly affect your business?

The dynamics are changing,and It is true that my role as President of the oldest employer representa tion in Algeria, namely the CGEA, cannot be satisfied with the work accomplished, I wish to continue opening women offices and set up a platform for the orientation and support of women, particularly in terms of financing.

Balance is a topic of conversa tion among women. How do you manage to hold on at home while juggling your duties as CEO of SARL SORALCOF and President of CGEA?

It is true that my various missions are demanding but I absolutely reserve Fridays for the house. I take the opportunity to cook and talk with my family and my loved ones. For Ramadan, I prepare the bread and the main meal myself. Let me use this opportunity to

Wish a happy Ramadan Kareem to all Algerians and Muslims around the world.

What is the most important advice you would give to women in the field of entrepreneurship?

Women entrepreneurs must be courageous and patient. When I first entered a construction site in Ouargla, I was not accepted but my perseverance and commitment paid off. I had difficulties with the payment of bills, but when the project owner saw the pace of work and the rate of progress, he ordered payment as a matter of urgency and that's how I was able to complete the project on time. So, have no hesitations and I welcome you to the exciting adventure of entrepreneurship.