Succeeding in the township economy

Succeeding in the township economy

Published on 27th May, 2024 at 11:29 am

The township economy is crucial to South Africa’s growth and its people. We shed light on Kas’lam – a Sanlam initiative that’s helping unlock entrepreneurial dreams and boost local businesses.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

In this article, you will learn:

  • Why the township economy is crucial to South Africa
  • How the Kas’lam initiative is helping entrepreneurs build their dreams
  • Personal insights from four Kas’lam entrepreneurs

 

South Africa’s township economy is big business – just look at the stats. Half of the country’s population lives in just over 530 townships, and with small businesses woven into the fabric of these areas, the market value is currently estimated at around R900 billion. Small businesses keep millions of people employed and contribute a massive portion to our GDP. These entrepreneurs play a critical part in our country’s road to success.

To celebrate the township economy and the vital role it plays in South Africa, Sanlam has launched the Kas’lam initiative that seeks to empower and uplift the township economy. By offering meaningful and practical support in the form of financial skills and education, Kas’lam helps to empower entrepreneurs to find their place in the ecosystem of the local economy.

“Supporting local vendors sparks a chain reaction of empowerment for entrepreneurs,” says Mahlatse Mahlase, Senior Marketing Manager: Sanlam Retail Mass. “This allows dreams to be realised, and businesses to thrive. We call on all South Africans to join the movement to help transform iKasi one purchase at a time and unlock the true potential of these communities.” Mahlase introduces four of the inspirational Kas’lam entrepreneurs, and they share how their big dreams came to life.

Phumla Ntintili, founder of Ntintili Wholesale

“Ntintili Wholesale started as a side hustle,” explains Phumla Ntintili, “but after about a year, I saw its potential and how it would grow if I became more hands-on.” She was motivated to see it flourish after having navigated years of challenging corporate environments. “Growing a business isn’t easy,” she says, “but I am motivated by my clients – many of whom I’ve built strong relationships with – and all the help I have received from Kas’lam.” At first, she found it difficult to market her business, but Kas’lam assisted by putting her on digital platforms and opened the doors to e-commerce in the future, and reaching new clients in new areas. “I want others to follow their dreams,” she encourages. “Take that first step with whatever ideas or resources you have.”

Joseph Molema, founder of Joe’s Cell Repair

“I started Joe’s Cell Repair because jobs are hard to find and I knew I had a talent for fixing phones,” says Molema, who has been inspired by technology for over 15 years. While running his own business is tough work, he says it’s the people around him who keep him going. “I have loyal customers who believe in me, and that’s the reason I am motivated to keep growing.” He says the Kas’lam initiative has helped him immensely: “There were many customers who gave me problems by not paying me,” he says, “but Kas’lam gave me visibility. More people started to recognise me and took me more seriously.” Eager to see other entrepreneurs thrive, Molema encourages everyone to remember that there will always be challenges in running a business, but we should never give up on what we believe in.

Phindile Zuma, founder of MaZuma Traditional Attire

“I started MaZuma Traditional Attire to ensure the continuation of our culture as Africans and for the love of our nation,” says Phindile Zuma. “I am motivated by this vision, and along the way, seeing how happy my clients are when they come back to visit me, or when brides send me photos. It really motivates me to keep going.” It’s not always easy, admits Zuma. Running this type of business can be challenging and expensive, but through the visibility Kas’lam has helped to create, she’s positive that her business will continue growing. “I have dreams of eventually selling my traditional attire at airports and other tourist spots!” For her, it’s all about dreaming big. “I encourage young women and youngsters to start their businesses, because they will see how people come to support them.”

Lindiwe Mhlati, founder of Lindy’s Beauty Parlour

“From my past experiences, I decided that I wanted to be my own boss and seek personal freedom,” says Lindiwe Mhlati. “I know that starting Lindy’s Beauty Parlour was the right career path for me, because I love the world of beauty, and I love making women look and feel good.” This is what always keeps her motivated, and she reveals that she keeps the bigger picture in mind during tough times. “There are challenges of course,” she explains, “like the cost of equipment and growing a business, but I am thankful to Kas’lam who listens and guides me along the way.” While she enjoys her personal journey, she also wants to share the power of entrepreneurship with others. “With our economy being what it is, people must equip themselves with skills. Always have faith in your abilities, and trust God in the process.”

Click here to learn more about how Kas’lam is helping South Africa’s iKasi communities.

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