Nine small food businesses from townships across Gauteng are getting a much-needed push to grow, thanks to a new support initiative from Tiger Brands.
The entrepreneurs ranging from kota vendors to caterers and mobile food operators have received equipment and training through the company’s Kokota Growth Programme, which is focused on helping township-based SMMEs take their businesses to the next level.
For many of these business owners, the support could be life-changing.“This kind of help gives us confidence,” said one local food vendor. “Sometimes you have the customers, but not the right equipment or knowledge to grow. Now we can improve how we work and serve people better.”
The businesses were selected from participants who took part in the popular Albany Kota Festival, where they showed not only strong trading activity but also potential to expand. Organisers looked at consistency, food safety and overall commitment before choosing the final group.
Each selected business received practical tools such as upgraded cooking equipment, proper food preparation stations and storage units’ essentials that many small operators often struggle to afford. Beyond that, they are also being guided on how to manage their finances, market their services and run more structured operations.
Another beneficiary said the programme is already changing how they think about their business.
“We’ve always worked hard, but now we are learning how to work smarter. It’s not just about selling food anymore, it’s about building something that can last.”
According to Maanda Milubi, the initiative is about more than just short-term support.
“SMMEs play a huge role in creating jobs, but many still face challenges accessing markets and resources,” he said. “We want to help township businesses grow, formalise and become part of bigger supply chains in the food industry.”
Township economies continue to play a major role in South Africa’s broader economic landscape, with growing demand for accessible, affordable food services. Programmes like this aim to ensure that local entrepreneurs are not left behind as the sector expands.
For the nine Gauteng businesses, the opportunity is not just about new equipment it is about opening doors.“It feels like someone finally sees the work we do,” another vendor said. “This is a chance to grow and maybe even create jobs for others in my community.”
As the programme continues, there is hope that more township entrepreneurs will be empowered to turn small food operations into sustainable businesses serving not just meals, but opportunity.
