Community-based businesses play a vital role in the social and economic development of KwaZulu-Natal, which is popular for its diverse culture and economic disparities.
These small businesses, often operating on a small scale, are deeply rooted in their local communities and provide a number of benefits that would otherwise not be available if they were not servicing these areas.
Rooted in KwaZulu-Natal, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) recognises the role that these enterprises play in and around communities. TSAM recently embarked on a community-development initiative that has taken ten small business entrepreneurs from the community of Eston in the Umbumbulu area to undergo a fully sponsored, rigorous business development programme that spans over ten months. This initiative is run by Raizcorp, who is known for world-class business incubation and business acceleration programmes.
“Recognising and supporting community-based enterprises are crucial for the continued growth and sustainability of the KwaZulu-Natal community. TSAM and Raizcorp understand the vital role of mentorships and together we have ensured that this is a key component of the programme,” says Jacqui Simonsen from Raizcorp.
“My initial expectation was that this would be a classroom-style programme, but it has in fact proven to be very practical, engaging and value-adding to my business and day-to-day operations,” says Nhlakanipho Hlongwa of Wiseman Nhlekzin (Pty) Ltd about their experience.
Running a business, no matter how big or small, comes with daily challenges, ranging from a lack of access to finance to a lack of access to land. While for those operating in the farming space, the day-to-day challenges include theft of crops owing to inadequate fencing structures, livestock destroying their crops and the absence of irrigation systems. Amidst all these challenges, the entrepreneurs are determined to rise above the challenges and be a beacon of hope in the community.
“I never used to keep records in my business, but now I am able to put together a cash-flow statement, all thanks to the financial management module. Through this program I have built business relationships and have used this program as part of a peer-to-peer support system,” concludes Veronica Shozi of Iphunga Elimnandi (Pty) Ltd.
Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) welcomes the government’s extension of short term fuel levy relief measures aimed at cushioning consumers from rising fuel prices, but cautions that these interventions do not address the underlying structural challenge facing South Africa’s transport economy.
Volvo Cars has started building the fully electric EX60 at its Torslanda factory outside Gothenburg, with first customer deliveries due in early summer.
Changan has unveiled its ambitious “1+4+4+5” global strategy, signalling a determined push to become one of the world’s top ten automotive brands by 2030.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Changan has unveiled its ambitious “1+4+4+5” global strategy, signalling a determined push to become one of the world’s top ten automotive brands by 2030.
Brands in the Chery Group showcase their latest offerings at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show recently held in China.
South African motorists are heading for another fuel price adjustment in early May, with increases likely to be driven mainly by global oil prices and a weaker rand, rather than additional tax changes.
