South Africa: Wesgro celebrated Youth Month and unlocked opportunities through township tourism. It continued to shine spotlight on young changemakers who are driving innovation by creating opportunities and contributing to economic growth across Cape Town and the Western Cape.
Director of Mzansi Restaurant – Mbasa Siyaka received Cape Town Tourism’s Board Development Fund Award. The restaurant is an award-winning family-owned establishment in the heart of Langa Township. It has grown into more than a dining destination. It offers visitors an authentic experience of culture, heritage and hospitality of one of the oldest townships of Cape Town.
Mzansi Restaurant was built on a vision that was first sparked by his grandmother and later developed by his parents. Mbasa recognised it as an opportunity to harness tourism as a catalyst for local economic development. The restaurant was established in 2008 and was created to offer visitors an authentic cultural experience while generating jobs, supporting local businesses and ensuring that tourism spend remains within the township economy.
The restaurant further serves traditional Xhosa cuisine which is prepared by four local ‘mamas’, that employs township residents and works with local artists, suppliers and musicians to create a uniquely local tourism experience.
Alike many township businesses, Mzansi Restaurant has faced challenges ranging from transport accessibility and limited visibility related to funding constraints and access to broader markets. Though, the business has continued to grow while strengthening Langa’s tourism ecosystem through strong partnerships and community collaboration.
Considering this, Mbasa stated that township economies play a major role in tourism, job creation and cultural industries. At Mzansi, they work with local artists, musicians and suppliers, which means that money circulates within the township. This kind of ecosystem contributes directly to the wider Western Cape economy through inclusive growth.
Mbasa Siyaka believes that greater access to funding, exposure and inclusion in tourism platforms will help more township entrepreneurs to unlock their full potential. He hopes to expand Mzansi Restaurant’s tourism offering and off-site catering services, by creating more jobs and strengthening the positive impact of tourism within the community.