By: Sizakele nduli
In an industry dominated by commercial petrol stations, one small mobile diesel supply business is shaking up the traditional model. Sphiwe Sishi, 30, from Umlazi outside Durban runs a mobile supply business called Abbenotha Diesel Supply. He told Vutivi News that at the start of 2022, he embarked on a journey of becoming an entrepreneur and conducted research into the fuel industry. Just over a year later, he established his business. “I believe that if you want to do something then you have to start by doing research and learn as much as you can by getting in touch with people who will tell you more about the business you want to venture into,” Sishi said.
Sishi works alongside his friend and business partner, Sihle Sibisi, to supply the finest grade of 50ppm diesel to power generators and vehicles at people’s homes. They also supply taxis, busses and trucks where they are located at lower prices, and as a result, the business continues to grow exponentially. “We are grateful for the support that we get from a lot of people such as businessmen from different companies like metro busses,” he added.
Since its inception, the business has acquired six new vans that they use to order diesel from a factory and supply communities and businesses situated in Durban, Newcastle, Scottburgh and Etscourt with the help of four casual workers. Sishi said he decided to embark on the business to help people in rural KwaZulu-Natal. “My main focus is in rural areas because many people there struggle to get diesel or petrol (and) they end up traveling long distances to get to petrol stations and end up not getting it,” he said.
By providing a convenient service, competitive prices and exceptional services, Sishi’s mobile business has become a lifeline for his community and also offers people an opportunity to earn money. For now, Sishi is embracing the hustle, knowing that each day brings him closer to his ultimate goal of one day owning his own petrol station. “I have always wished and dreamt of having a petrol station where I will supply people from different areas with diesel or petrol,” said Sishi, who is determined to make his mark in the fuel industry.
