1 November 2004

By Ofentse Mokubetsi

AN entrepreneur in Kagiso has taken to heart President Thabo Mbeki's call for people to become self-sufficient: he runs a small business selling braaied meat from his home.

James Mafuntshayini started his business in 1999, after many years of financial hardship. He sells and then braais meat for his customers, some of whom come from as far afield as Alexandra, in Johannesburg, for a succulent meal.

Now the 54-year-old businessman is renovating his place in preparation for an increase in customers as the 2010 Soccer World Cup draws nearer. He is hoping to attract foreign guests to his eatery - so they can return home having had a unique township experience.

Mafuntshayini learnt his business skills from his father, who started a butchery and supermarket in Munsieville in the 1950s.

After his father died in 1978, says Mafuntshayini, things started to go downhill. He was forced to look elsewhere for a job: first he worked at a factory; then as a taxi driver.

However, supporting his growing family was a strain. It was only in 1999, when he started his own business, that things started to look up.

Mafuntshayini is not shy to admit that he has little formal education: only Standard 4. However, he says, he can communicate in most of South Africa's languages.

The Kagiso entrepreneur stresses he is not making a fortune, but is managing to support his nine children and four nephews. And Mafuntshayini is passing on his knowledge to some of his children, who are helping him in the business.

The workday starts at 8 o'clock and ends at 4pm, depending on the number of customers who pass through his doors.

Zakes Molefe from Kagiso says he has been eating at Mafuntshayini's place since it opened and enjoys every moment - a sentiment shared by Solly Moumakwe from Alexandra.

Customers range from teachers to policemen and nurses. He is overwhelmed by the support he has received since starting the business six years ago.

For those hungry customers who don't have money on the day, Mafuntshayini provides a credit system.