Thuthukani, Thungela’s Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programme, hosted a graduation ceremony for sixty-one (61) local entrepreneurs from communities surrounding its operations. This marks the third cohort of entrepreneurs to successfully complete the programme since its launch in 2022.
Thuthukani is designed to build resilient businesses by offering tailored business skills training, technical enablement, and one-on-one mentorship to entrepreneurs from host communities. The programme is grounded in a detailed gap analysis and enables support in areas such as finance management, marketing, sales, project strategy, leadership, ISO certification, and personal development. The programme is delivered in partnership with business development service provider Raizcorp.
Of the 61 entrepreneurs graduating this year, 29 are supplier development beneficiaries – Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) that currently provide goods or services to Thungela, while 32 are enterprise development beneficiaries, comprising SMMEs that are not vendors but have potential for future integration into the mining value chain or in other industries. Notably, 50 of the 61 graduates also achieved technical enablement accreditations including ISO 9001, ISO14001 and ISO 45001 certifications, specialised geological modelling, deep cleaning and hygiene, while other businesses became members of the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa and The Institute of Waste Management South Africa, boosting their compliance and competitiveness for procurement opportunities.
“Thuthukani is more than a business development initiative. It is a catalyst for local economic resilience. Each graduate represents a point of impact that causes a ripple effect, creating jobs and opportunities that uplift families and communities. We are proud to support the growth of these entrepreneurs and help them realise their potential - as they contribute to the growth of local economies, says Mpumi Sithole, executive head, corporate affairs at Thungela.”
The graduation highlights Thungela’s commitment to inclusive socio-economic development and transforming small businesses in in host communities. As the programme grows, its impact continues to spread, with entrepreneurs not only formalising their businesses, but also entering new markets, gaining critical certifications, and becoming active contributors to the regional economy.
Among the graduates is a growing group of women-led businesses gaining real traction in their industries. Julliet Mahlangu, owner of Mpangela Industrial Holdings and a beneficiary of the programme says, “Before Thuthukani, I lacked the systems and structure to manage and scale my business. The mentorship and technical training helped me implement better financial controls, and I now feel more confident approaching new clients and bidding for contracts.”
“Watching this third cohort grow in confidence, capability, and market reach is a clear sign of the value this partnership delivers. Thuthukani’s focus on both enterprise and supplier development ensures that more entrepreneurs in Mpumalanga are equipped for long-term success, says Jeanne Renou, Strategic Relations & Projects Manager at Raizcorp.
Beneficiary, Giji John Motau, owner of Gemad Pty Ltd, says, “my journey with Thuthukani has been transformative. I’ve gained a clearer understanding of what it takes to build a sustainable business”.
Thuthukani reflects Thungela’s ongoing commitment to economic transformation and community empowerment.
ENDS