KasiKonnect and SimplyBiz, powered by Nedbank launch SPAZA Supply+ to forge a 100% kasi-owned supply chain, sparking township economy revolution

Posted by Admin (JS) on 03 November 2025, 11:45 SAST

SOWETO, SOUTH AFRICA – A major step towards economic self-determination was taken in the heart of Soweto on 20 October, as KasiKonnect, with the support of SimplyBiz, powered by Nedbank, officially launched SPAZA Supply+ to 50 township manufacturers in Diepkloof. This groundbreaking initiative is not just about connecting buyers and sellers; it's about building a robust, 100% kasi-owned supply chain that stands to be a genuine township economy game changer.

The group of manufacturers represented a dynamic blend of innovation, with items ranging from agro-processed goods such as juices, jams, vegetable powders, and yogurts, to enriched pi water, air freshners, organic fertilisers, beauty and haircare products, energy storage solutions, and more. These products are now positioned to stock an expanded local retail network, including kasi-owned supermarkets, butchers, beauty and hair salons, and various other outlets.

Catalysts of Change

The launch event highlighted the immense potential present within the community. Speaking at the event, Monique Chinnah Head of SimplyBiz®, lauded the participants. "Building a manufacturing supply chain in South Africa’s townships isn’t just about creating products but it’s about creating possibilities that were not available historically. It’s also about removing barriers to entry so that township entrepreneurs can access the same opportunities, resources, and markets as their established industry counterparts. By investing in these local ecosystems, Nedbank can help unlock jobs, nurture small enterprises, and anchor real economic growth where it’s needed most, in the communities that power our nation’s future. The sheer manufacturing capacity in this room is undeniable, and these 50 manufacturers represent the catalysts of change and,the entrepreneurial force that will drive the next chapter of the township economy."

KasiKonnect founder and CEO, Janice Scheckter, addressed the historical barriers to growth. "For too long, a fragmented ecosystem has posed a significant barrier to mainstream market entry for kasi manufacturers," Scheckter noted. "The SPAZA Supply+ pilot program, supported by SimplyBiz, is directly confronting this by building a robust, wrap-around ecosystem. We are ensuring our manufacturers have integrated access to experts in product development, production, pricing strategy, professional packaging, legal compliance, strong branding, and promotional support."

Reclaiming the Market

The success of SPAZA Supply+ is set to herald a new way kasi makers are seen. By professionalising and securing their own supply channels, township manufacturers are moving beyond the informal market to become critical players in the formal retail landscape.

This initiative is a powerful commitment to ensuring that the wealth generated in the community circulates back into it, creating jobs and fostering local pride. Every locally-made product stocked in a local store reinforces this virtuous cycle and demonstrates that local quality meets national standards.

"By consciously choosing to stock these local, retail-ready products, traders are making an investment that pays dividends for their business and their entire community," Scheckter concluded. "We are reclaiming our local markets and proving that a self-sufficient, kasi-owned economy is not just a dream, but a rapidly unfolding reality."