Tiger Brands is providing small and medium-sized (SMMEs) businesses operating within South Africa’s growing township economy with practical business skills to help them become efficient, profitable, and sustainable enterprises able to create meaningful employment in local communities.
As part of this effort, Tiger Brands, in partnership with the African Management Institute, hosted a cooking masterclass led by local celebrity chef Wandile Mabaso, bringing together nearly 60 township-based food entrepreneurs from across Gauteng who are part of the KasiPreneur Impact Project, an entrepreneurship development initiative.
The hands-on session focused on practical food preparation techniques and business insights that could have a direct impact on the efficiency and profitability of their businesses. This includes smart sourcing, pricing strategies in competitive markets, how to maintain quality and offer a consistent consumer experience.
“I’m very passionate about food entrepreneurs. This is a significant industry in our townships, and sessions like this are about sharing practical knowledge from the food business, helping entrepreneurs improve their products, and equipping them with the tools to build stronger and more sustainable businesses,” says Chef Wandile Mabaso Founder & Executive Chef at Les Créatifs Restaurant.
The masterclass forms part of Tiger Brands’ recently launched Kokota Growth Programme, which supports township-based food businesses with business management training and access to operational equipment. It also builds on the company’s broader expansion into the township economy, a market estimated to be worth more than R900 billion (Trade Intelligence).
“Our growth as Tiger Brands in the township economy is dependent on the strength and resilience of the businesses that operate within the sector. As South Africa’s largest food manufacturer, we have the responsibility to invest our knowledge, scale, and resources into building their capabilities,” says Maanda Milubi, Director: Enterprise Supplier Development and Transformation at Tiger Brands.
Entrepreneurs were given access to Siya Stocka, a digital platform that makes it easier to source supplies so they can focus more on running their businesses. Its “Siya Stocka Pantry” online system lets users quickly restock bulk and essential food items, with delivery to their door within 24 hours. With special deals, bundles, and promotions, Siya Stocka helps reduce costs, increase profits, and support the growth of kasi-based food businesses.
About KasiPreneur
The Kasipreneur Impact Project is a African Management Institute administered programme which backs township foodpreneurs who want to growth their businesses. Foodpreneurs are offered practical businesses support, skills, networks, and opportunities, to help scale, make more money, and succeed.
About African Management Institute
The African Management Institute (AMI) is a leader in business learning to support the growth of African enterprises and its rapidly growing workforce.
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