Two Mpumalanga entrepreneurs participate in Standard Bank Kasi SME National Pitch Challenge Summit | Mpumalanga News

Two local entrepreneurs attended the Standard Bank Kasi SME National Pitch Challenge Summit 2025 on August 27 in KZN. This follows a competitive nine-province pitching process and a national masterclass designed to sharpen business storytelling and presentation skills.

Gracious Sengwayo, owner of Dirtyfree, won first prize, while Given Ngwamba, owner of Tanisa Nolita Keagan Greenhouse Technology, took second place in the Mpumalanga regional segment. The two qualified to represent the province and will now showcase township entrepreneurship on the national stage.

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The provincial round identified 18 standout businesses from across the country – the top two from each province – which will gather for the summit. These regional winners represent a diverse mix of industries, from agriculture and robotics to fashion and mining, and will compete for top honours at the national finals.

The Kasi SME Pitch Challenge is a long-standing highlight of the Standard Bank Kasi SME Summit. Previously focused on Gauteng-based entrepreneurs, the competition expanded nationally this year, giving township businesses in all nine provinces the platform to pitch, showcase their offerings, and unlock new growth opportunities.

This year’s summit, themed “Future-proofing kasi businesses: From survival to sustainable success”, will explore how township entrepreneurs can transition from short-term survival to long-term sustainability by building financial resilience, embracing environmental responsibility and deepening social impact. A total of R500 000 in prize money is up for grabs for this year’s most promising township entrepreneurs.

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Sengwayo said she was humbled and excited by the recognition. “Coming from Matsulu, a township in Mpumalanga, this means a lot because it shows that even from small beginnings, big opportunities can grow. Winning first prize in the regional round has given me confidence, but more importantly, it proves that young entrepreneurs from our communities can create real impact and be recognised on bigger platforms.”

Ngwamba of Ka-Maquekeza, Nkomazi, whose business is based in Ngwenyine Village, said he was proud to be among the 18 regional winners.

“We are incredibly proud of all the participants who stepped up to share their vision. Their courage and passion are what drive the spirit of entrepreneurship in our communities. Our aim is to keep empowering local businesses and help them thrive in today’s tough economic climate with improved market access,” said Naledzani Mosomane, head of enterprise and supplier development at Business and Commercial Banking, Standard Bank South Africa.