By: Ntombi Mandla
Perdekraal East Wind Farm has supported 14 small businesses by enhancing their resources through this Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) programme, which has also helped a local entrepreneur strengthen his pizza business. Khaya Toti, who hails from Nduli, is the owner of the only wood-fired pizzeria in Ceres in the Western Cape. He bought a pizza dough maker and digital menu display panels for Khaya’s Pizza Shack through financial resources invested in the ABCD programme.
The programme helps to enhance the assets of the 14 small businesses. “Perdekraal East Wind Farm’s contribution towards Khaya’s Pizza Shack has served a remarkable role throughout client service and cost efficiency throughout our financial challenges. With their assistance, we have managed to keep few people employed and continue with reasonable and affordable prices whilst producing quality products,” Toti told Vutivi News.
The business was established in May 2015. It has evolved from a modest pizzeria into a beloved local destination renowned for its outstanding wood-fired pizzas and vibrant atmosphere. The business currently employs six full-time workers and two additional staff over the weekend, which has helped reduce unemployment in Ceres. “The funding I received from the ABCD programme has been invaluable. It has enabled [us to] continue employing local people despite financial challenges.
The digital menu display panels have streamlined our operations and reduced costs, allowing us to focus on what we do best, which is making great pizza,” Toti said. Next, Toti plans on introducing a range of new offerings, including fried chicken, burgers and chips, and hopes to open more branches around Witzenberg.
Meanwhile, Gwynne-Lee Borcherds, who is the economic development manager for the farm, which funds the programme, said: “We chose to fund Khaya’s business because it’s the only wood-fired pizza restaurant in the area, offering unique growth potential. We believe that with additional support, Khaya’s venture could significantly impact the local business community.” The programme supports businesses in Ceres, Bella Vista, Nduli and Prince Alfred.