POLOKWANE – What started as a small agro-processing hustle run from the boot of her car has grown into a business with global ambitions.

Mologadi Maloba (38), an agro-processing entrepreneur and mother of two from Polokwane, is determined to grow her chilli sauce into a recognised brand that can compete locally and internationally.

Building a brand from scratch

Currently producing and selling on her own, Maloba said her ultimate goal is to establish a fully-fledged production plant and create jobs for young people.

“Currently, I’m on my own, and my plan is to employ more youth and help address the triple challenges we are confronted with – poverty, unemployment and inequality,” she said.

Maloba added that there are many graduates seeking work and she wants to play her part in creating opportunities.

Funding remains a challenge

Owning her own facility would give her full control of manufacturing and allow her to increase production, but funding remains a challenge.

“I work from my own budget, and sometimes it is not enough. We need the support of government and the private sector,” she said.

She explained emerging agro-processors need support with manufacturing, packaging, bottles and distribution.

Targeting retail shelves and exports

Maloba’s next target is retail shelves, and she also hopes to become an official supplier to major retailers including Walmart Group, Woolworths, Pick n Pay, SPAR, Shoprite and Checkers.

Beyond South Africa, she wants to export her product.

A background in marketing and IT

Maloba holds qualifications in marketing and information technology. In 2018, she completed fundamentals of digital marketing through Google Digital Garage as part of the first pilot group in South Africa, before the course was introduced at universities like Stellenbosch and UCT.

Maloba previously worked as a financial adviser and at the SABC before resigning to pursue entrepreneurship.

“I resigned because the entrepreneurship industry was calling me.”