A technology-driven programme to stimulate entrepreneurship in South African townships is being expanded to more regions.

ITWeb reports that the smart food cart initiative is being rolled out in Soshanguve, Centurion, Midrand, Cosmo City, Tembisa, Boksburg, Brakpan, Soweto, Katlehong, Tshwane and the Vaal in Gauteng, and Brits in the North West, with the onboarding of 50 new entrepreneurs. Of the new SME owners, 38 are women and 12 are men; 41 are between the ages of 18 and 34.

As well as start-up materials and working capital, each entrepreneur is equipped with a food cart featuring a GPS monitoring and reporting device; a digital tablet; and an e-commerce app.

The app is linked to three other connected platforms – targeting the consumer, the merchant and drivers – to ensure seamless last-mile delivery.

In addition, digital payment devices will allow entrepreneurs to collect credit card payments and sell value-added services.

The initiative is being run by NPO Empire Partner Foundation in collaboration with the Township Distribution Model and the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority.

12 September 2023
Image: Freepik