The African continent is widely regarded as the next frontier in small business development, representing immense potential to transform lives, families, and communities. This month, we highlight Kabelo Moloto, a remarkable young entrepreneur and the founder and managing director of Jika Naye Projects. Based in Protea Park, Rustenburg, Moloto embodies the spirit of innovation and perseverance, propelling his company to new heights through creative vision and hard work.
Jika Naye Projects, a 100% black and youth-owned South African company, received essential equipment from the Empowerment Fund, an initiative by the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT). This support marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey, enhancing its operations and expanding its impact
Kabelo Moloto holds a BA in Communications from the University of Johannesburg and several diplomas in writing, public relations, marketing, graphic design, and business management, founded Jika Naye Projects in 2010. His academic background and visionary mindset have been instrumental in navigating the challenges in the creative industry.
The company offers a diverse range of services, including graphic design, corporate clothing, sportswear supplies, personal protective equipment, office consumables, corporate gifts, printing, and video production. Despite limited equipment in the past, Moloto’s determination allowed him to maintain quality and fulfill client demands, even if it meant outsourcing to other printers.
The equipment received, valued at R111,500,00 includes a Cotex vinyl cutter and stand, Anycut contour cut software, a heat press, a cap and panel press, a mug press bulk 5 head, a plate press, an Epson sub printer, a color 2 station screen printer, a four-color 2 station printer, a flash ink dryer, an exposure unit, a pad printer, a flash stamp machine, a badge press with two molds, and an A3 guillotine. This investment has enabled Moloto to offer competitive pricing and expand his portfolio to include school uniform design, vehicle branding, and signage.
“I can now confidently say that my pricing is competitive, as I am now servicing other entrepreneurs within my area and surroundings who are still struggling with resources. It’s a value chain,” Kabelo remarked. The influx of equipment has not only improved production efficiency but also increased the company’s client base, particularly in funeral parlours for their vehicle branding.
Moloto’s vision extends beyond business growth. He is committed to community empowerment, aiming to create employment opportunities, particularly for women and people with disabilities operating within his area. He envisions Jika Naye Projects not only thriving within the province but also reaching intentional markets, thereby contributing to employment, skills development, and community upliftment.
Ms. Carol Rasego, the Director for Economic Empowerment, commended Jika Naye Projects for their resilience and encouraged them to maximize the benefits of the new equipment. She highlighted the department’s ongoing support for small businesses and cooperatives, which is crucial for fostering economic growth and enabling local traders to compete in the market. ‘We encourage other young people to follow suit and come up with innovative ideas to assist in reducing the rate of unemployment in the North West Province,’’ said Ms Rasego.
Kabelo Moloto’s journey with Jika Naye Projects is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and community spirit. As the company continues to grow, it stands as a beacon of what young, determined entrepreneurs can achieve with the right support and resources.
Moloto’s story is an inspiration, demonstrating that with vision and hard work, the sky is the limit.